Research Engineer – Silicon Photonics Design Enablement & PDK Development

The Institute of Microelectronics (IME) is seeking a Research Engineer to support Silicon Photonics PDK development, process and device data management, photonic IC layout design, GDS verification, and MPW tape-out activities. The successful candidate will work closely with multidisciplinary teams to develop design enablement solutions that support silicon photonics technology development and industry collaborations.

Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and support Silicon Photonics Process Design Kits (PDKs), including design libraries, technology files, compact models, and design documentation.
• Manage process, device characterization, and fabrication data to ensure data integrity, traceability, accessibility, and effective utilization across design and technology development activities.
• Support silicon photonics design implementation, including PIC layout generation, GDS creation, verification, and tape-out activities.
• Perform layout verification, design rule checking (DRC), and tape-out validation to ensure manufacturability and compliance with foundry requirements.
• Collaborate with process integration, device, test, and modeling teams to incorporate process updates and device performance data into design flows and PDK releases.
• Develop and maintain scripts, databases, and automation tools to improve design productivity, data management, and workflow efficiency.
• Prepare technical documentation, reports, and presentations to support project execution and technology deployment.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Photonics, Physics, Microelectronics, or a related discipline.
• Knowledge of silicon photonics, photonic integrated circuits (PICs), semiconductor processes, or microelectronics technologies.
• Experience with layout design, GDS generation, and tape-out flows for integrated photonic or semiconductor devices.
• Familiarity with EDA and design tools such as Cadence Virtuoso, KLayout, Lumerical, Synopsys photonic design tools, or equivalent platforms.
• Experience with PDK development, management, and deployment is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of DRC, LVS, and design verification methodologies.
• Proficiency in scripting and programming languages such as Python, SKILL, Tcl, or MATLAB for workflow automation and data processing.
• Experience in process, device, measurement, or fabrication data management will be an advantage.
• Familiarity with database systems, version control tools (e.g., Git), and software development practices is a plus.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work independently in a multidisciplinary R&D environment and manage multiple tasks concurrently.

Preferred Experience

• Experience in silicon photonics foundry enablement, MPW tape-outs, and foundry engagements.
• Hands-on experience with silicon photonics PDK development and compact model integration.
• Experience supporting industrial customers, research collaborations, or technology transfer activities.