Photonics Characterization Intern- Winter 2026

Lightmatter•Boston, MA

9d•$53 - $65•Hybrid

About The Position

Lightmatter is seeking a PhD candidate or recent PhD graduate in Photonics to work in Photonics Characterization. The role focuses on electro-optic testing and characterization of silicon photonics chips, devices, and subsystems, including components such as micro-rings, optical phase shifters, and Mach-Zehnder interferometers. The successful candidate will bring hands-on laboratory experience with optical and semiconductor test equipment, and develop automated testing and system interfaces using Python. This analytical, process-oriented role requires independent problem-solving and the ability to translate test data into actionable strategies. The Photonics & Silicon Engineering team designs and develops photonic processors and interconnects that use light for computation and communication. Its silicon photonics work integrates optical components onto silicon to support high-speed, low-power performance for next-generation AI and high-performance computing. The role offers an hourly range of $53–$65 USD. Lightmatter describes its workplace model as flexible and hybrid. Benefits eligibility may vary depending on employment status and location.

Requirements

Recent PhD graduate or PhD candidate in Photonics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
Strong understanding of silicon photonics and demonstrated experience in electro-optic testing of components.
Experience developing and implementing automated testing systems using Python scripting.
Hands-on laboratory experience with optical and semiconductor test equipment.
Highly analytical and process-oriented, with the ability to work independently on complex technical problems in a laboratory environment.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to comply with federally mandated U.S. export control requirements.

Nice To Haves

Microcontroller programming.
Experience with high-speed instruments.
Experience with high-speed communications and understanding of vector network analyzers and optical links.
Understanding of high-speed PCBs and/or microelectronics.
Experience working in a graduate-level photonics or electrical engineering laboratory.
Willingness and curiosity to learn from the team.

Responsibilities

Participate in electro-optic testing of photonics chips and devices using optical instruments.
Test and characterize silicon photonics components, including micro-rings, optical phase shifters, and Mach-Zehnder interferometers.
Operate optical equipment, including lasers, electro-optic modulators, semiconductor optical amplifiers, PIN receivers, optical spectrum analyzers, optical vector analyzers, and optical filters.
Use semiconductor test equipment, including vector network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, source-meter units, arbitrary waveform generators, and high-speed oscilloscopes.
Design and execute testing protocols for silicon photonics chips and subsystems.
Develop and implement automated testing and system interfacing through Python scripting.
Translate test data into actionable strategies and independently solve complex technical problems.