Assistant Scientist, Associate Scientist, or Scientist in Experimental Optics, College of Optics and Photonics
About The Position
The University of Central Florida (UCF) is seeking a 12-month, non-tenure earning assistant scientist, associate scientist, or scientist to conduct research in the College of Optics and Photonics at its main campus. This position is part of UCF's rapid growth in research funding and academic stature. The college, CREOL (Center for Research and Education in Optics and Lasers), is a leading institution in optical and photonic science and engineering, offering various degree programs and engaging in fundamental and applied research. The role involves working with the Semiconductor Diode Laser Group on research focused on large, high-power semiconductor diode laser arrays, including external-cavity coupling, phase locking, coherent beam combining, and collective dynamics. Current projects investigate synchronization, spatial and temporal coherence, and collective states in coupled semiconductor lasers, combining experimental work with theoretical and computational modeling. The successful candidate will contribute to the development, alignment, characterization, and optimization of advanced optical and photonic experimental platforms.
Requirements
- Ph.D. from an accredited institution in Optics/Photonics, Electrical Engineering or a closely related field.
- Strong hands-on experience with free-space optical systems, including optical alignment, optimization, and troubleshooting.
- Solid understanding of Gaussian beam propagation, diffraction, focusing, imaging, and optical beam characterization.
- Experience working with semiconductor lasers, laser sources, and associated optical components.
- Demonstrated ability to independently align, characterize, and optimize complex free-space optical steps involving lenses, mirrors, beam splitters, spatial filters, detectors, and related instrumentation.
- Must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident.
- Must be authorized to work for any U.S. employer.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with optical diagnostics, experimental data acquisition, and analysis.
- Familiarity with the dynamics and modeling of semiconductor diode lasers and laser arrays.
- Knowledge of nonlinear dynamics, synchronization, or nonlinear systems.
Responsibilities
- Participate in research in experimental optics with the Semiconductor Diode Laser Group.
- Conduct research focusing on large, high-power semiconductor diode laser arrays, including external-cavity coupling, phase locking, coherent beam combining, and collective dynamics.
- Explore the emergence and control of synchronization, spatial and temporal coherence, and other collective states in large arrays of coupled semiconductor lasers.
- Combine advanced optical experiments with theoretical and computational modeling of nonlinear laser dynamics.
- Contribute to the development, alignment, characterization, and optimization of advanced optical and photonic experimental platforms involving semiconductor diode lasers and laser arrays.
Benefits
- Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
- Flexible Spending
- Employee Assistance Program
- Paid time off, including annual and sick time off
- Paid holidays
- Retirement savings options
- Employee discounts
- Education assistance
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
