Research Specialist

Job Details

Research Specialist

Milwaukee, WI
Full Time
JR10010650

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Position Title:
Research Specialist

Job Category:
Academic Staff

Employment Type:
Terminal (Fixed Term)

Job Profile:
Research Specialist

Job Duties:

The Research Specialist position will contribute to advancing research in integrated photonics, optical interconnects, and semiconductor technologies, with a focus on external cavity lasers, copackaged optics (CPO), and 3D optoelectronic integration for next-generation AI and data communication systems. This role will function as a key technical contributor within the research group, supporting both fundamental device innovation and system-level development aligned with departmental and institutional research priorities.

Key Job Responsibilities:

• Reviews, analyzes, and interprets data and/or documents results for presentations and/or reporting to internal and external audiences
• Performs literature reviews and writes reports
• Conducts research experiments according to established research protocols with moderate impact to the project(s). Collects data and monitors test results
• Participates in the development, interpretation, and implementation of research methodology and materials
• Operates, cleans, and maintains organization of research equipment and research area. Tracks inventory levels and places replenishment orders
• Provides operational guidance on day-to-day activities of unit or program staff and/or student workers

Department:

College of Engineering and Applied Science

Compensation:

65,000 (Final salary offer will be determined based on qualifications and experience)

Job Responsibilities:

Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Designing, modeling, and optimizing photonic devices and systems, including external cavity lasers and integrated optical components
• Conducting experimental validation and characterization of photonic devices and optical systems
• Developing system-level architectures for optical interconnects and co-packaged optics applications
• Contributing to the preparation of research proposals and technical reports to support external funding efforts
• Publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at conferences
• Collaborating with faculty, students, and external partners to advance interdisciplinary research initiatives
• Mentoring graduate and undergraduate students and supporting the development of research infrastructure

Work will be performed primarily on-site, with collaboration across research teams and potential engagement with external industry and government partners.

Required Qualifications:

• PhD in Electrical Engineering, Applied physics, Photonics, or a closely related field
• Demonstrated expertise in integrated photonics, semiconductor lasers, or optical systems
• Experience in simulation, design, or experimental characterization of photonic devices
• Strong record of peer-reviewed publications in relevant research areas
• Ability to conduct independent research and contribute to collaborative projects
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for technical reporting and publication

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with external cavity lasers, narrow-linewidth laser design, or optical source development
• Experience with co-packaged optics (CPO), optical interconnects, or data communication systems
• Familiarity with photonic simulation tools (e.g., Lumerical, COMSOL, MATLAB) Experience with experimental optical setups, including laser characterization and noise measurements (e.g., RIN, linewidth)
• Experience contributing to research proposal development or funded projects Experience mentoring students or working in interdisciplinary research environments
• Experience collaborating with industry or translating research toward practical applications

Education:

PhD

How to Apply:

Interested applicants please apply online no later than May 18th. Please include both a resume and cover letter for consideration.