R&D Manager – Plasma & Microwave Photonics

About the role

Excelitas Technologies is seeking an experienced Plasma Physicist to lead a small R&D team developing microwave‑driven plasma light sources and UV bulb technologies for advanced photonics and industrial applications.

Key responsibilities

• Lead a team of engineers and technicians, assign tasks, track progress and ensure timely delivery.
• Develop, model, and test microwave‑driven plasma light sources and UV bulb technologies, including design of plasma discharge systems, bulb geometry, gas composition and microwave coupling structures.
• Perform experimental validation, laboratory testing and lifetime testing of plasma lamps, and translate results into design improvements.
• Participate in design reviews, provide technical support, troubleshoot and optimize plasma light source systems.

Required profile

• PhD or MS in Plasma Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Demonstrated experience in plasma discharge physics, microwave plasmas or gas discharge lamps, preferably in R&D or product development.
• Previous experience leading a small R&D engineering team.

Required skills

• Strong understanding of microwave‑plasma interaction, RF power coupling and electromagnetic wave propagation.
• Experience with plasma diagnostics such as optical emission spectroscopy or RF/microwave measurement techniques.
• Familiarity with microwave resonant structures, RF power delivery systems or cavity design for plasma generation.
• Proficiency with simulation tools for electromagnetic or plasma modeling (e.g., COMSOL Multiphysics).
• Knowledge of UV light generation mechanisms, gas mixtures and lamp materials used in high‑intensity photonics applications.