We are looking for a Principal Scientist to lead the transition of advanced photonic device concepts into reliable, high-volume production. You will act as the technical and strategic bridge between research, engineering, and manufacturing, ensuring our foundry services remain best-in-class for global customers.

This is an opportunity to combine academic freedom and innovation with industrial impact.

Responsibilities

• Lead the integration of photonic devices from our TCC (technology Competence Centre) into scalable process flows, from prototype to volume manufacturing.
• Drive device modelling, simulation, and validation, ensuring robust design-to-production workflows.
• Collaborate with customers and internal teams on IP generation (patents, standards, joint publications)
• Guide cross-functional collaboration with design, test, and supply chain teams
• Represent SMART Photonics at conferences and in industry consortia
• Mentor and inspire a team of engineers and researchers, nurturing the next generation of photonics leaders

Requirements;

• PhD or MSc in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, Physics, or a related field
• 10+ years of experience in photonic integration, semiconductor process engineering, or device modelling
• Track record of publications and/or patents in photonics or semiconductor devices
• Hands-on experience moving technologies from R&D to production
• Strong leadership and communication skills; ability to collaborate across disciplines
• Excited by the dual challenge of scientific excellence and industrial scalability

What We Offer

• Competitive salary to be aligned on during the first recruitment call.
• Opportunity for participation in a rapidly scaling deep-tech company.
• Support for conference participation and publications.
• A collaborative culture at the heart of Eindhoven’s photonics hub
• Reporting directly to our CTO