Principal Scientist/Senior Researcher II - Heterogeneous Integration of III-V and Silicon Photonics

Job Description

As Tyndall's Principal Scientist/Senior Researcher II for Heterogeneous Integration of III-V and Silicon Photonics you will drive a cutting-edge research programme that will address some of the outstanding challenges in photonic-electronic integration in order to deliver new technology solutions for applications ranging from smart medical devices to advanced communication systems.

In particular, you will develop a new research team to advance large scale photonic-electronic integration. The key focus of the research will be the integration of III-V active devices (lasers, modulators, detectors etc.), together with active and passive silicon photonic ICs and associated electronic ICs using Micro-Transfer Printing (MTP). The research will be enabled by Tyndall's advanced fabrication, characterisation and test facilities, which include all of the elements needed for the programme, including a dedicated MTP tool. Working initially under the guidance of the Head of the III-V Devices Group, you will be expected to lead a number of existing projects whilst also growing your own independent funding and research streams in order to develop a dedicated team of highly skilled research staff and PhD students.

You will join the Photonics Centre at Tyndall, a vibrant and expanding world-class research ecosystem comprising more than 150 researchers with activities that include photonic theory, III-V and III-Nitride material epitaxy, photonic integration, hybrid integration and packaging, microelectronics, biophotonics and communication systems. You will be expected to develop collaborations across the centre as well internationally through programmes such as the European Horizon Europe funding framework and its successors. Tyndall also hosts the Research Ireland funded Irish Photonic Integration Centre (IPIC) with 30 industry partners, including large multinationals and indigenous companies and start-ups. In addition to advancing photonic integration science and engineering, you will have the opportunity to lead a number of research collaborations with industry partners to advance the technology towards market deployment.

In order to achieve this, Tyndall seeks a highly motivated and dynamic individual with a proven track record of research excellence and achievement in photonic integration research, including a deep knowledge of III-V and silicon photonic device design and fabrication. You will have at least 5 years' experience working in a leading academic institution or industrial research organisation and ideally a proven track-record of securing research contracts and defining and leading research programmes. The post offers a superb opportunity for an ambitious individual to establish a long-term research career in a world-leading research institute working on exciting, cutting-edge science at the interface between academia and industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the development in Tyndall of photonic integrated circuits utilising micro-transfer printing of active components
• Disseminate research achievements through publications in key journals and conferences
• Develop a dynamic research group, supported by funding secured from national and European funding sources and industry
• Develop partnerships with Tyndall colleagues and external collaborators.
• Develop new intellectual property and support its commercial exploitation
• Contribute to postgraduate training and supervision
• Contribute to the strategic planning and future success of the Tyndall Photonics Centre
• Support education and public engagement activities
• Support and enhance safety rules and laboratory protocols.
• Ensure all activities are compliant with the Tyndall Quality Management system.
• Carry out any additional duties as may reasonably be required within the general scope and level of the post.

Essential Criteria

• A PhD or equivalent in a relevant subject area.
• Typically 7+ years' experience working in a prestigious academic institution or industrial research organisation.
• A proven track record of research excellence and achievement in photonics, including a deep knowledge of III-V and silicon photonic device design and fabrication.
• A proven track record of generating independent competitively won funding.
• Expertise in coordinating, supporting and managing large scale research projects.
• A track record of high quality research and innovation as evidenced by publications/patents and presentations at leading conferences.
• Self-motivated, dynamic, supportive and collaborative
• Capable of defining and implementing a broad-based, world-leading research programme spanning from fundamental science and engineering to applied projects with industry partners.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a team as well as taking a leadership role in growing a fully funded research team.
• Excellent communication skills.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience in proposal writing and a history of securing funding from internal company or external public funding sources
• Demonstrated track record of IP generation.
• Experience of student/staff supervision

What we Offer

• Continuous Learning: Strong support for formal training, further study and professional development.
• Interdisciplinary Environment: Where academia, industry, and innovation intersect - supported by cutting-edge infrastructure and expert knowledge.
• Blended Working: Flexibility to work remotely and on-site, where the role allows.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Access to UCC pension, long-term illness benefit, life assurance, and more.
• Generous Leave: Competitive annual leave entitlements.
• Equity & Inclusion: Athena Swan Bronze award holder, with ongoing initiatives led by a dedicated People and Culture team to ensure equity for all.
• Core Values: A culture grounded in Ambition, Collaboration, Diversity, Excellence, and Integrity.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit: A proactive, innovation-driven environment that welcomes entrepreneurial and creative thinkers, including those with start-up experience.
• Supportive Onboarding: Structured induction and mentoring to help new hires integrate and thrive.
• Vibrant Culture: A collaborative, people-first workplace with a strong sense of community.

Terms of Employment

Contract Category: Full Time
Contract Type: Fixed Term

Appointment may be made on the Grade 7 Admin I Scale (B) €85,266 - €112,323 per annum (Principal Scientist) or Grade 6a Admin II Scale (B) €72,765 - €92,172 (Senior Researcher II), dependent on experience . Salary placement on appointment will be in accordance with public sector pay policy.

Informal enquiries can be made in confidence to Brian Corbett.