Senior Research Engineer (Postdoc): Silicon Austria Labs (SAL), as part of the European Chips Act, is seeking a Postdoctoral Senior Research Engineer to join the Integrated Photonic Technologies (IPT) team in Villach, Austria. The selected candidate will contribute to the development and fabrication of aluminum nitride (AlN)-based quantum photonic integrated circuits (PICs) in SAL’s cutting-edge R&D cleanroom. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to work on groundbreaking quantum technologies while enjoying a high quality of life in the Austrian Alps.
Senior Research Engineer (Postdoc) – Quantum Photonic Integrated Circuit Fabrication (All Genders)
Location: Villach, Austria
Organization: Silicon Austria Labs (SAL)
Job-ID: 202-1
Employment Type: Temporary (3 Years), Full-time
Start Date: January/February 2026 (approx.)
📋 Summary Table
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Senior Research Engineer (Postdoc) |
| Research Area | Quantum Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) Fabrication |
| Location | Villach, Austria |
| Duration | 3 Years (with possible extension based on performance) |
| Start Date | January/February 2026 |
| Job Type | Temporary, Full-time |
| Salary | Starting from €61,000 (gross annually) + benefits |
| Language | English (excellent oral and written skills required) |
👨🔬 Designation
Senior Research Engineer (Postdoctoral Level)
🔬 Research Area
Quantum Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs), with emphasis on aluminum nitride (AlN)-based technologies for quantum communication, sensing, and metrology.
📍 Location
Silicon Austria Labs (SAL)
Villach, Austria
(Relocation support available for non-EU applicants)
✅ Eligibility/Qualifications
- PhD in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Photonics, or related field
(or MSc with equivalent relevant experience) - Proven experience in PIC fabrication (especially in R&D or pilot line settings)
- Proficiency with layout tools like KLayout and EBL job preparation
- Hands-on experience with lithography tools (e.g., EBL)
- Programming proficiency in Python (automation and data analysis)
- Familiarity with PIC design, integration, and characterization
- Strong documentation, communication, and teamwork skills
- Knowledge of photonics market trends and project management is a plus
🛠 Job Description
As a key team member, your responsibilities will include:
- Designing and fabricating quantum photonic integrated circuits
- Executing design of experiments (DOEs) and improving PIC processes
- Working in SAL’s cleanroom alongside the process engineering team
- Ensuring high process integration, fabrication fidelity, and yield
- Analyzing data and optimizing fabrication for quantum applications
- Supporting technology transfer to pilot lines and scalable platforms
- Engaging in interdisciplinary collaborations with academic and industrial partners
- Generating reports, documentation, and contributing to IP and patents
📄 How to Apply
- Submit your application through the Silicon Austria Labs Careers Page (link to be active in early July 2025)
- Application review begins July 2025, and continues through mid-August
- First interviews: August–September 2025
- Technical Task: Assigned to shortlisted candidates (2-week deadline)
- Final Interviews: October 2025
- Offer Decisions: October–November 2025
- Start Date: Expected around January/February 2026
🗓 Last Date to Apply
Mid-August 2025 (Early applications encouraged)
🌟 Why Join SAL?
- Cutting-edge research infrastructure
- Dynamic, multicultural work environment
- Supportive of family and work-life balance
- Health and wellness initiatives (“Vital4SAL”)
- Training and career development opportunities
- Meal and public transport subsidies
If you’re passionate about pushing the boundaries of photonics and quantum technologies, and want to contribute to Europe’s semiconductor future, this is your chance.
🔗 Apply soon and be part of the quantum revolution at SAL!
