Internship - Silicon Photonics Reliability Testing

We are a young and dynamic startup founded in 2020 by experts who have developed a game-changing photonic technology in the laboratories of IBM Research in Zurich.

We have developed a unique technology to bring a material with an extremely strong Pockels coefficient into a scalable silicon photonics platform. Having this physical effect available in integrated photonic circuits has been a scientific and technological breakthrough, which enables the realization of advanced photonic structures and completely new applications, e.g. for photonic AI networks and quantum computing. At Lumiphase, we are bringing this new technology to market, while at the same time developing new scientific and technological concepts. The internship project is placed at the heart of our R&D activities and will ensure that our groundbreaking semiconductor chips can be tested to their full performance potential with appropriate electrical, optical and mechanical integration solutions.

During this internship, you will collaborate closely with our R&D engineers in their daily activities focused on silicon photonic chip reliability and qualification. You will gain hands-on experience with our electrical and optical testing hardware, learn advanced photonic characterization methods, and engage in both conceptual and practical lab work. This immersive experience will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of industry-driven R&D activities. Your daily tasks may include:

• Conducting experimental campaigns: Plan and execute experiments to understand the endurance of silicon photonic chips, including Python coding for automation, data acquisition, analysis, and report writing
• Operating and improving testing setups: Manage and enhance our existing setups for electrical or electro-optical characterization and robustness testing of integrated photonic devices
• Hands-on lab tasks: Set up new instruments, prototype with 3D printing, install hardware components and samples into test chambers, inspect assembled photonic chips, and define and execute calibration routines

The duration of the project work will be determined in accordance with the regulations of your university, a duration of 6 months is preferred.

Seeking a motivated candidate with a strong interest in silicon chip manufacturing and micro-scale photonics. Desired qualifications include:

• Interest in learning about photonic characterization methods, working with electrical and optical measurement equipment, and working with delicate semiconductor components (prior hands-on experience is a plus)
• Proficiency in Python programming for data analysis, implementing test routines, and communication with hardware
• Previous experience with the following is an advantage: PCB design software, CAD, version control via Git, SQL
• Strong communication skills, team spirit, and a desire to contribute within a dynamic deep-tech startup
• Completion of a Bachelor’s program in electrical engineering, physics, microsystems, or a similar field

At Lumiphase, we offer a young, fast-growing, and dynamic working environment with broad options for personal development. We have world-class technical people who love to share their skills with new team members. People from all around the world have joined us, creating an open-minded and diverse team spirit. We also value and want to make strides towards equality/diversity across the company - including in leadership position - and strongly encourage women candidates to apply.

All of us are dedicated to creating superior photonic products to solve hard problems in the field of communication as a big team effort.

As an intern, you will also have access to a range of benefits, including:

• Participation in social & educational team events
• Accident insurance (occupational and non-occupational)
• 2nd pillar pension scheme with AXA Winterthur (BVG)
• Daily sickness allowance (KTG)
• Financial support for public transportation
• Free weekly Yoga classes held on site