R&D Scientist Optical Chip Assembly and Integration

Want to make your mark on our time? Become a R&D Scientist at TNO in Eindhoven!

About this position

The Photonic Integration Technology Center (PITC) is a leading R&D institute, founded by the Eindhoven University of Technology (TUe), the University of Twente (UT), the Netherlands organization for applied scientific research (TNO located at Holst Centre) and PhotonDelta. PITC's mission is to accelerate the uptake of integrated photonics by helping industrial partners close the bridge from research to commercialisation and help to solve some of society’s biggest challenges, by working on applications ranging from road safety and health monitoring to energy-efficient data handling and communication to data security. PITC is located in Eindhoven and Enschede in The Netherlands, and makes use of excellent research facilities: the NanoLabs in Eindhoven and Enschede, with world-leading technology platforms based on resp. indium phosphide and silicon nitride, and the heterogenous integration platform of InP and SiN developed at the high tech campus in Eindhoven. Are you ready to take on a dynamic role with a wide scope of responsibilities? Would you like to be one of the pioneers to build and expand a new R&D team in the field of integrated photonics, engaging with leading industries the high-tech sector? Then you are welcome at TNO-PITC in Eindhoven, a joint initiative of TNO, Eindhoven University of Technology, University of Twente and PhotonDelta, supported by leading partners from the photonic chip industry.

What will be your role?

As an R&D Scientist at PITC, you will be instrumental in advancing the high-precision assembly and interconnect of photonic components. Your work will contribute to the development of more efficient and compact photonic-electronic systems, impacting advanced communication technologies, medical devices, and beyond.

You will work at the intersection of materials science, process technology, microelectronics, and packaging, where you conduct experimental investigations and employ advanced modeling techniques to design optimized material and process combinations. These innovations will facilitate the successful assembly and interconnect of new photonic components onto various substrates.

Your expertise in micro-assembly techniques and materials will drive the adoption of this technology as a mainstream manufacturing solution for photonic components. If you have a background in high-precision chip alignment and experience in photonics, semiconductors, or related fields, we encourage you to apply.

Key responsibilities:

• Design, fabricate, and validate optical and electronic interconnect and assembly processes for next-generation photonic devices and systems.
• Guide and support the acquisition of commercial chip assembly equipment.
• Participate in the development of high-speed (> 10,000 UPH) and high-accuracy assembly processes.
• Collaborate with international customers and project partners, sharing your expertise while taking on key responsibilities in R&D initiatives.

What we expect from you

You thrive on the challenge of bridging research and practical application in the field of integrated photonics. You have a solid background in photonics, semiconductors, or a related field, with specific experience in high-precision chip alignment. Your skills in micro-assembly techniques and materials science will be crucial to our success.

Other knowledge and skills you bring to TNO:

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• 5+ years of industry experience in the semiconductor or photonics sector, with a focus on advanced chip packaging and high-precision chip assembly.
• Proven experience in designing and fabricating optical and electronic interconnects.
• Hands-on experience with micro-assembly, alignment, and packaging techniques for photonic devices.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to work on complex multi-disciplinary problems.
• Excellent communication skills to collaborate with international partners and multidisciplinary teams.

What you'll get in return

Challenging and varied work with a real impact. And plenty of opportunities as, at TNO, you are in charge of shaping your career. We offer a gross monthly salary (based on your knowledge and experience), 8% holiday pay, a 13th month bonus of 8.33% and a flex budget (5.58% + € 180). In addition, you will be given every opportunity to develop yourself.

Perhaps you would like to grow your career in the direction of commerce or consultancy? Or would you like to become a project manager? Immerse yourself in sustainable innovations? Or carve out a career as a technical expert?

TNO offers optional employee benefits, enabling you to tailor your benefits package to match your personal situation. You may also expect:

• An extremely professional, innovative working environment where colleagues are leading experts in their field.
• The opportunity to attend courses, workshops and conferences, and to receive training and coaching based on your needs.
• 33 days annual leave on a full-time basis.
• An employer that values and encourages diverse talent, with initiatives like the Female Leadership Program, our Rainbow Community and round tables on inclusion topics.
• We offer a comprehensive and flexible mobility plan that also includes full compensation for public transportation for commuting and business travel.
• Great social events with your team and other TNO colleagues. That’s how you will get to know a lot of people really quickly.
• Flexible working hours, the possibility to work parttime (32 of 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
• Extensive relocation package for international candidates.
• A good pension scheme.

TNO as an employer

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society.

We are TNO: This is our time

This is the time for us to find innovative solutions that will make an impact. The time to lead the world in safety and security, make our lives healthier, and take sustainability to the next level.