Research Scientist

Our Client (Apex Microdevices) has an opening for the following:

About the Role:

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist :

Design & Simulation

· Design metasurface structures for beam shaping, focusing, polarization control, or spectral filtering in UV, visible, or IR regimes.

· Perform full-wave electromagnetic simulations (e.g., FDTD, RCWA, FEM) using tools such as Lumerical, COMSOL, Ansys HFSS, or CST.

· Optimize designs for specific fabrication constraints and application requirements, including broadband or multi-functional performance.

Fabrication

· Develop and execute nanofabrication process flows for metasurfaces using electron beam lithography (EBL), photolithography, plasma etching, and thin-film deposition (e.g., e-beam evaporation, sputtering, ALD).

· Work in a cleanroom environment to prototype metasurface components on silicon, glass, or III-V substrates.

· Collaborate and interface with outside foundry process engineers to transfer and scale designs to wafer-level manufacturing or MPW runs.

Optical Characterization

· Set up and perform optical measurements to characterize amplitude, phase, efficiency, polarization response, and focal quality of metasurfaces.

· Analyze results using tools like MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW, or Zemax to compare experimental data with simulated behavior.

Reporting & Collaboration

· Document experimental results and prepare technical reports and presentations for internal teams, partners, or government sponsors.

· Work cross-functionally with design, systems, and integration teams to ensure metasurface components meet optical system-level requirements.

· Contribute to intellectual property (IP) development, scientific publications, and conference presentations.

Required Qualifications:

• B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in Optical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 2+ years of hands-on experience in optical metrology or laser/optical testing (can include graduate research).
• Proficiency with optical instrumentation and lab alignment techniques.
• Familiarity with data analysis tools (MATLAB, Python, Origin, etc.).
• Understanding of optical design principles and system-level performance metrics.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with high-NA or nano-optics characterization (e.g., metasurfaces, photonic crystals).
• Knowledge of ISO standards for optical testing and environmental qualification.
• Familiarity with Zemax/Code V and/or COMSOL/FEM for simulating optical responses.
• Experience working in cleanroom or controlled lab environments.
• Experience with optical communication or imaging systems a plus.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and equity
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Flexible work environment
• Opportunity to lead and innovate in a fast-paced, high-impact mission
• Work on cutting-edge optical systems with real-world defense and space applications

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $80,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Education:

• Master's (Required)

Security clearance:

• Confidential (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Dayton, OH 45410 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Dayton, OH 45410: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person