Flat Optics R&D Engineer

Flat Optics R&D Engineer We are looking for a Flat Optics R&D Engineer to join our team and drive innovation in optical metasurfaces and nanophotonics. Our Flat Optics team leverages imec’s advanced manufacturing capabilities—materials, process know-how, and state of the art lithography—to translate concepts into manufacturable devices. In this role, you will design, simulate, prototype, and validate metasurfaces and large variety of flat optics devices and systems for imaging, sensing, beam shaping, VR/AR, optical I/O, and integrated photonics. You will collaborate closely with nanofabrication and integration teams, run optical characterization, and iterate designs to push performance. This position provides the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge optical systems and shape the future of nanophotonics.

What you will do

Design and optimize metasurfaces for applications in sensing, imaging, VR/AR and optical I/O. Develop numerical models and simulation pipelines using FDTD, RCWA, RAY TRACING , FEM, or inverse design methods. Work with integration teams to prototype and validate metasurface designs. Work on the integration of metasurfaces with integrated photonic circuits, free-space optics, and semiconductor platforms. Characterize, analyze experimental data, and iterate designs to improve performance.

What we do for you
We offer you the opportunity to join one of the world’s premier research centers in nanotechnology at its headquarters in Leuven, Belgium. With your talent, passion and expertise, you’ll become part of a team that makes the impossible possible. Together, we shape the technology that will determine the society of tomorrow.
We are committed to being an inclusive employer and proud of our open, multicultural, and informal working environment with ample possibilities to take initiative and show responsibility. We commit to supporting and guiding you in this process; not only with words but also with tangible actions. Through imec.academy, 'our corporate university', we actively invest in your development to further your technical and personal growth.
We are aware that your valuable contribution makes imec a top player in its field. Your energy and commitment are therefore appreciated by means of a market appropriate salary with many fringe benefits.
Who you are

PhD or Master’s degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related field. Strong expertise in nanophotonics, metasurfaces, and computational electromagnetics. Experience with design tools such as Lumerical, Comsol, Meep, Zemax, or in-house simulation frameworks. Experience in techniques for generating GDS files for fabrication. Experienced in hands-on optical table characterization, building setups, and performing precise characterization. Familiarity with nanofabrication techniques (e.g., lithography, etching, deposition) is a plus. Experience with design and/or characterization with integrated photonic technologies is a plus. Ability to collaborate in a multidisciplinary team and communicate technical results effectively. Detail-oriented with strong critical thinking and decision-making skills to navigate evolving R&D demands. Proficiency in Python (or similar coding languages), with experience in version control and documentation. A strong focus on customer satisfaction and delivering high-quality results. Excellent teamwork and communication skills. We seek a candidate who thrives in a dynamic work environment, showcasing an adaptability to diverse projects or research topics. You’ll be a key team player, ready to support colleagues and tackle impactful projects within the timelines of our trusted global partners. IMEC and its affiliates will not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. IMEC will consider unsolicited referrals and/or resumes submitted by vendors such as search firms, staffing agencies, professional recruiters, fee-based referral services and recruiting agencies (hereafter “Agency”) to have been referred by the Agency free of charge. IMEC will not pay a fee to any Agency that does not have a prior written agreement with IMEC, validated by its HR department, in place regarding a specific job opening and allowing to submit resumes