Physicist/Scientist (PhD) - Photonics and Optics

About the role

Applied Materials, a global leader in materials science and engineering solutions for semiconductors and advanced displays, is hiring a new college graduate physicist or scientist with a PhD in Santa Clara, California. The role covers scientific research and technology development in photonics, optics, optical metrology and electromagnetic systems, using physics-based principles, modeling, simulation and experimental methods to build optical solutions and improve system performance.

Key responsibilities

• Design, develop and characterize optical and photonic systems, components and architectures.
• Perform modeling and simulation of optical, electromagnetic and photonic phenomena.
• Design and run experiments to validate theoretical predictions and system performance.
• Analyze experimental and measurement data to find performance limits and optimization opportunities.
• Develop novel optical metrology and sensing approaches.
• Work with hardware, software, systems and product engineering teams to integrate optical technologies into products.
• Pursue invention disclosures, patents and technical leadership.
• Share technical findings through reports, presentations and design reviews, and collaborate with academic, industrial and research partners.

Required profile

• Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Physics, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Photonics or a related field.
• Strong background in optics, electromagnetics or photonics.
• Demonstrated ability to turn scientific concepts into practical engineering solutions.
• Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Required skills

• Experience with optical design and simulation tools such as Zemax, Lumerical, COMSOL and FDTD/FEM platforms.
• Proficiency in scientific programming and data analysis.

What we offer

• Salary of $138,000 to $190,000, depending on location, hire grade, knowledge, skills and experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package, with possible eligibility for a bonus and stock award program.
• Full-time position; relocation eligible.