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Lightium. Thin film lithium niobate photonic foundry.

Production-Grade Photonic Foundry for Thin-Film Lithium Niobate

COMING IN 2024

Create the Next Generation of Photonic Solutions with our TFLN Platform

PRODUCTION-READY FROM THE START

We manufacture 200 mm wafers in a high-volume foundry environment. With production in mind from the start, we reduce your time-to-market and industrialization risks.

UNMATCHED PHOTONIC PERFORMANCE

TFLN boasts top-tier performance. From light-speed modulation (>100 GHz) to low-voltage operation (V𝛑 ≤ 1V), wide transparency window (350 - 5,500 nm), and large 2nd/3rd order non-linearities.

SUPPORTED BY YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

We develop our process flow with performance, robustness, and flexibility in mind. Our comprehensive PDK is available in four bandwidths (C-band, O-band, 780 nm, 830 nm).

CURRENTLY ONLY AVAILABLE IN CLOSED BETA TESTING

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Open Positions

Join our team at Lightium. We’re looking for talented individuals passionate about shaping the future of photonic technologies. Explore our current openings and find out how you can contribute to our mission of advancing the frontiers of communication and technology.

Administrative Assistant (60-80%), Zürich, Switzerland

Are you organized, driven, and ready to become the operational backbone of a leading-edge technology firm? Lightium, an emerging startup in the photonic industry, is on the hunt for an Administrative Assistant to streamline our internal processes and enhance operational efficiency. Join our mission to transform information and communication technologies and be at the heart of our success. 

Position Summary 

Lightium seeks a highly organized, detail-oriented Administrative Assistant to support our dynamic team. This role is pivotal in ensuring operational efficiency and enhancing our innovative culture. The ideal candidate will have a passion for technology, a knack for organization, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Create and maintain our internal processes and documents, focusing on improving operational efficiency and providing clear communication to our team and stakeholders. 
  • Manage all forms of correspondence and maintain effective filing systems for both digital and physical records. 
  • Assist executives with daily administrative tasks, including scheduling, travel arrangements, and expense management. 
  • Facilitate project support for R&D, marketing, sales, and other departments. 
  • Organize company events, from team meetings to industry conferences. 
  • Handle financial administrative tasks such as invoice processing and budget tracking. 
  • Support HR activities, including job postings, interview scheduling, and new hire onboarding. 
  • Enhance internal communication, aiding in the distribution of important company updates. 
  • Assist with the preparation and distribution of marketing and communication materials. 
  • Support with administrative management of large collaborative public-funded projects with several international partners.  

What you’ll bring 

  • Proven experience as an Administrative Assistant or similar role. 
  • Excellent organizational skills with an ability to think proactively and prioritize work. 
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills. 
  • Proficiency in MS Office and other office management systems. 
  • Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality. 
  • Interest in technology and eagerness to work in a fast-paced, innovative environment. 
  • Strong reporting and documentation skills and the ability to supervise big projects with multiple team members over a long period. 
  • Fluency in German and English (French is a plus).

What We Offer 

  • A collaborative and innovative work environment where your contributions will have meaningful impact.
  • Become a key player in an early-phase startup and join a young, motivated, and energetic team. You will have the unique opportunity to create, grow, and be involved in leadership decisions. 
  • Competitive salary and benefits package. 

 

We’d love to hear from you if you’re passionate about technology and thrive in a collaborative and innovative environment. Please send us your application to jobs@lightium.co!  

We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted. 

Lightium is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. 

Head of PIC Manufacturing & Process Development (100%), Zürich, Switzerland

Are you ready to lead the charge in the next generation of photonic integrated circuits (PIC)? Lightium, an emerging startup in the photonic industry, is seeking a Head of PIC Manufacturing and Process Development to oversee our groundbreaking thin film lithium niobate (TFLN) process transfer and scale-up. Join us on our journey to transform information and communication technologies, making advanced photonics more accessible and efficient for everyone. 

Position Summary 

In this pivotal position, you’ll lead our TFLN fabrication process development and process transfer with our CMOS manufacturing partner, pioneering new processes and spearheading specialized in-house processes. You will be at the forefront of PIC manufacturing, collaborating with a dedicated team to bring Lightium’s innovative technology from the lab to large-scale production. 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Lead the TFLN process transfer to our CMOS manufacturing partner, ensuring a seamless and efficient transition. This responsibility will involve prolonged stays abroad. 
  • Lead a team of process engineers to develop new PIC manufacturing processes, pushing the boundaries of current technologies. 
  • Collaborate with R&D teams in design and characterization, engineering, and production to scale up manufacturing capabilities and meet production targets. 
  • Ensure the highest quality control and yield management standards throughout the manufacturing process. 
  • Stay updated with industry trends and advancements, incorporating cutting-edge techniques and technologies into our manufacturing processes. 
  • Participate in and contribute to international, national, and public-funded projects (e.g., HorizonEurope), including at the technical level and in grant writing and reporting. 

What you’ll bring 

  • An advanced degree (Master or PhD) in Photonics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field. 
  • At least 10 years of experience working in micro-fabrication cleanrooms and a minimum of 5 years of expertise working in industrial fabrication facilities.  
  • Extensive experience in PIC manufacturing and waveguides, particularly with TFLN and related technologies. 
  • Extensive experience with main processing steps such as DUV lithography, etching, metallization, thin-film growth, etc. 
  • Proven track record of leading process transfers and scale-up initiatives in a semiconductor or photonics manufacturing environment. 
  • Strong leadership skills, with the ability to inspire and manage multidisciplinary teams. 
  • Excellent problem-solving abilities and a forward-thinking approach to manufacturing challenges. 
  • Strong communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, concise language for a variety of audiences. 
  • Strong reporting and documentation skills and the ability to supervise large projects with multiple team members over long periods. 
  • Fluency in English (in verbal or written communication) is a must – German and French are a plus. 

What We Offer 

  • A unique opportunity to lead a cutting-edge manufacturing initiative in the rapidly growing field of photonics. 
  • A collaborative and innovative work environment where your contributions will shape the future of telecommunications, datacom, and beyond. 
  • Competitive compensation and benefits package reflective of your experience and expertise. 
  • Become a key player in an early-phase startup and be part of a young, motivated, and energetic team. You will have the unique opportunity to create, grow, and be involved in leadership decisions. 

 

We’d love to hear from you if you’re passionate about building new tech from the ground up and thrive in a collaborative and innovative environment. Please send us your application at jobs@lightium.co. We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted. 

Lightium is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. 

Photonic Characterization Engineer (100%), Zürich, Switzerland

Are you ready to lead the charge in the next generation of photonic integrated circuits (PIC)? Lightium, a pioneering force in the photonic industry, is on the hunt for a skilled Photonic Characterization Engineer to turn our visionary technology into a tangible solution for our customers. Join us on our journey to transform information and communication technologies, making advanced photonics more accessible and efficient for everyone. 

Position Summary 

We seek a skilled Photonics Characterization Engineer with a strong focus on experimental characterization, testing, and measurements of novel photonic building blocks, including passive and electro-optical, nonlinear, and active components based on thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN). This key position demands creativity and technical expertise in the lab, including measurement automatization and large dataset analysis. The ideal candidate will be at the forefront of developing our comprehensive process design kit (PDK) component library used by customers worldwide. You will also contribute to developing novel PIC circuits, ensuring top-tier performance and integration. This role involves close collaboration with our multidisciplinary teams, especially with the design and modeling team, as well as our process development and integration teams, to bring groundbreaking photonic solutions from concept to market. 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Build and maintain optical experimental apparatus to characterize various passive, electro-optic, nonlinear, and active PIC components, especially for the TFLN platform.  
  • Set up automation algorithms to perform automatic measurements in probe stations. 
  • Develop, incorporate, and implement machine learning algorithms to analyze large statistical measurement data and extract physical PDK models. 
  • Contribute to keeping the experimental lab up to date, including procurement of new equipment.  
  • Collaborate closely with the design and fabrication teams to ensure the PDK’s alignment with fabrication capabilities and design requirements.
  • Regularly update the PDK to incorporate new components, enhancements, and feedback from fabrication outcomes. 
  • Stay up-to-date with industry trends and advancements in PIC technology and design methodologies. 
  • Provide technical support and training to the design and sales teams, ensuring effective utilization of the PDK in photonic circuit designs. 
  • Participate in and contribute to international, national, and public-funded projects (e.g., HorizonEurope), including at the technical level, in grant writing, and reporting. 

What you’ll bring 

  • An advanced degree (Master or PhD) in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, Physics, or a related field. 
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in integrated photonics or microwave photonics. 
  • Strong knowledge and background in photonics measurements, with at least 3 years of experience working in an optical lab. 
  • Strong knowledge and background in RF circuitries and RF measurement at ultra-high frequencies. 
  • Strong expertise in Python coding is a must. 
  • Strong knowledge of lab automation using Python code to set up and program semi-automatic measurement tools such as probe stations. 
  • Expertise with various analytic tools to analyze large experimental statistical data. 
  • Proficient in photonic design software, particularly Luceda. 
  • Demonstrated experience in PDK development and maintenance within a PIC environment. 
  • Strong understanding of photonic component design, fabrication processes, and testing methods. 
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment. 
  • Strong reporting and documentation skills and the ability to supervise large projects with multiple team members for a long time. 
  • Fluency in English (in verbal or written communication) is a must – German and French are a plus. 

What We Offer 

  • A unique opportunity to lead a cutting-edge manufacturing initiative in the rapidly growing field of photonics. 
  • A collaborative and innovative work environment where your contributions will shape the future of telecommunications, datacom, and beyond. 
  • Competitive compensation and benefits package reflective of your experience and expertise. 
  • Become a key player in an early-phase startup and join a young, motivated, and energetic team. You will have the unique opportunity to create, grow, and be involved in leadership decisions. 

 

We’d love to hear from you if you’re passionate about building new tech from the ground up and thrive in a collaborative and innovative environment. Please send us your application at jobs@lightium.co. We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.  

Lightium is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. 

PIC Design Expert (100%), Zürich, Switzerland

Are you ready to lead the charge in the next generation of photonic integrated circuits (PIC)? Lightium, a pioneering force in the photonic industry, is on the hunt for a skilled PIC Design Expert to turn our visionary technology into a tangible solution for our customers. Join us on our journey to transform information and communication technologies, making advanced photonics more accessible and efficient for everyone. 

Position Summary 

We seek a skilled PIC Design expert with a strong focus on modeling, simulation, and optimization of novel photonic and electro-optical building blocks and systems based on thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN). The ideal candidate will contribute to developing our process design kit (PDK) component library and novel PIC circuits, ensuring top-tier performance and integration. This role involves close collaboration with our multidisciplinary teams, especially with experimental characterization and process development, to bring groundbreaking photonic solutions from concept to market. 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Develop and optimize various photonics PDK components, including passive, electro-optics, and active components based on TFLN using FEM or FDTD simulation methods in COMSOL and Lumerical. 
  • Develop, implement, and maintain the PDK in various EDA design software, such as Nazca, Luceda, and Synopsys. This PDK encompasses both layouts and physical models of each component. 
  • Model and simulate PIC designs (including GDS layouts) at the circuit-level, focusing on innovative solutions to improve performance and reliability. 
  • Model new photonic components using state-of-the-art simulation tools and methodologies. 
  • Collaborate with the fabrication team to ensure designs are manufacturable and meet quality standards, and implement the PDK physical models based on statistical measurements. 
  • Provide technical support and expertise to our sales and marketing teams, assisting in customer engagement and product specification. 
  • Stay up-to-date with industry trends and advancements in PIC technology and design methodologies. 
  • Document and maintain comprehensive records of PDK revisions, updates, and usage guidelines. 
  • Participate in and contribute to international, national, and public-funded projects (e.g., HorizonEurope), including at the technical level and in grant writing and reporting. 

What you’ll bring 

  • A PhD in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, Physics, or a related field. 
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in the field of integrated photonics and microwave photonics 
  • Three years of experience in TFLN-based PIC design, modeling, and optimization. 
  • Strong knowledge of FEM simulation tools for photonic and electronic design, such as Luceda, Lumerical, or similar. 
  • Strong knowledge of EDA design tools such as IPKISS (Luceda), Nazca, or Synopsys Opto-Designer 
  • Strong expertise in Python coding is a must. 
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team. 
  • Strong communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, concise language for a variety of audiences. 
  • Strong reporting and documentation skills and the ability to supervise large projects with multiple team members over a long period. 
  • Fluency in English (in verbal or written communication) is a must – German and French are a plus. 

What We Offer 

  • A unique opportunity to lead a cutting-edge manufacturing initiative in the rapidly growing field of photonics. 
  • A collaborative and innovative work environment where your contributions will shape the future of telecommunications, datacom, and beyond. 
  • Competitive compensation and benefits package reflective of your experience and expertise. 
  • Become a key player in an early-phase startup and join a young, motivated, and energetic team. You will have the unique opportunity to create, grow, and be involved in leadership decisions. 

 

We’d love to hear from you if you’re passionate about building new tech from the ground up and thrive in a collaborative and innovative environment. Please send us your application at jobs@lightium.co. We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted. 

Lightium is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. 

Internship - Photonic Experimental Setup (6 Months), Zürich, Switzerland

Are you most comfortable in a lab surrounded by experimental setups? Lightium is offering an exciting opportunity for a dedicated intern to support our Photonic Characterization Lab in the heart of Zürich, Switzerland. This 6-month paid internship is perfect for students or recent graduates in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, Physics, or related fields, who are eager to contribute to developing the next generation of Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs) by enhancing our optical lab and characterization setups. 

Internship Summary 

As an integral part of our team, you will assist in building, maintaining, and optimizing our optical experimental setups to characterize various photonic components and contribute to characterizing various passive and advanced electro-optics building blocks. This role offers hands-on experience in a state-of-the-art optical lab, working closely with cutting-edge technology and contributing to the advancements in our thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) platform. Your efforts will directly support the creation and validation of our comprehensive Process Design Kit (PDK) component library, which is utilized by customers worldwide. 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Assist in setting up and maintaining optical experimental apparatus for characterizing PIC components.
  • Support developing and implementing automation algorithms for probe stations.
  • Help keep the lab up-to-date, including procuring and setting up new equipment.
  • Contribute to the measurement and characterization of various PIC components including passive and electro-optics components.
  • Collaborate with design and fabrication teams to ensure alignment between the PDK, fabrication capabilities, and design requirements.
  • Participate in updating the PDK with new components and based on fabrication outcomes and feedback.

What you’ll bring 

  • Currently pursuing or have recently completed a Master’s degree program in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, Physics, or a related field.
  • An understanding of photonics measurements and experience working in an optical lab environment.
  • Basic knowledge of RF circuitries and RF measurement techniques.
  • Proficiency in Python coding for lab automation and data analysis.
  • An eagerness to learn and apply photonic design software and contribute to PDK development.
  • Excellent problem-solving abilities and a keen interest in photonics technology.
  • Fluent in English, with strong communication skills to collaborate in a team-oriented environment.

What We Offer 

  • A platform to apply your academic knowledge to real-world challenges in the photonic industry.
  • Exposure to pioneering PIC technology and hands-on experience in an advanced optical lab.
  • A dynamic and supportive work environment, where your contributions are valued and can lead to significant advancements in photonic technologies.
  • Competitive compensation package reflecting the pivotal role you will play within our team.

 

If you’re passionate about photonics and eager to contribute to groundbreaking technological advancements in a collaborative and innovative environment, we’d love to hear from you. Please send us your application at jobs@lightium.co. We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Lightium is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Internship - Photonic Software Coding (6 Months), Zürich, Switzerland

Do you want to apply your coding skills to exciting engineering problems? Lightium seeks a highly motivated and skilled intern with a passion for coding and a background in engineering to join us for a 6-month paid internship. This unique opportunity will allow you to contribute to our pioneering work on photonic technologies by developing software and coding solutions.

Internship Summary 

As part of our dynamic team, you will focus on coding and optimizing advanced photonic components. Working closely with our PIC Design Experts, you will have the chance to apply your coding skills to create software critical to our innovative photonic design processes. This internship offers hands-on experience in software development within the context of photonics, blending technical challenges with the excitement of contributing to meaningful technological advancements. 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Collaborate in developing and enhancing photonic components in the form of black (encrypted) and white (non-encrypted) boxes. 
  • Develop the library of process design kit (PDK) components and circuits in Python based EDA design software such as Luceda, Nazca, or Synopsys. 
  • Write clean, efficient, well-documented code in Python for GDS layouts. 
  • Develop clean, efficient, well-documented codes for design rule check (DRC) 
  • Participate in integrating simulation and modeling results into new photonic components. 
  • Engage in code reviews and continuous learning to meet the highest software development standards. 

What you’ll bring 

  • Currently pursuing or have recently completed a Master’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Photonics, Physics, or a related field, with a strong emphasis on software development. 
  • Proficient in Python coding, with experience in software development environments and version control systems such as Git. 
  • Familiarity with numerical simulation tools and photonics EDA software and a keen interest in applying software solutions to engineering problems. 
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively. 
  • Fluent in English, with effective communication skills to convey complex software concepts to non-specialist audiences. 

What We Offer 

  • A role at the intersection of software development and photonics, providing a unique perspective on how coding can drive innovation in technology. 
  • Exposure to real-world challenges and the opportunity to develop software solutions that have a tangible impact on our products and the industry. 
  • A collaborative, inclusive, and stimulating work environment where your contributions are valued and can lead to significant advancements in photonic technologies. 
  • Competitive compensation package reflecting the role you will play within our team. 

 

If you are driven by innovation and eager to apply your coding expertise to push the boundaries of photonic technology, join us in this exciting journey. Please send us your application at jobs@lightium.co. We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted. 

Lightium is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. 

Internship - Photonic Simulations (6 Months), Zürich, Switzerland

Are you passionate about photonics and want to strengthen your simulation skills? Lightium, a pioneering force in the photonic industry, invites ambitious master’s students in engineering to apply for a 6-month paid internship, where you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of photonic integrated circuits (PICs) through cutting-edge optical simulations. 

Internship Summary 

Under the guidance of our PIC senior expert, you will delve into the fascinating world of modeling, simulation, and optimization of photonic and electro-optical systems. Utilizing our state-of-the-art thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) platform, you will contribute to enhancing our Process Design Kit (PDK) component library and pioneering novel PIC circuits. This internship offers a unique blend of theoretical learning and practical application, bridging the gap between academic study and real-world photonic technology development in a pioneering startup. 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Support in developing and optimizing photonics PDK components using advanced simulation methods in COMSOL and Lumerical. 
  • Assist in modeling and simulating PIC designs to improve performance and reliability. 
  • Implementing the layouts and GDS designs in various EDA design software such as Luceda and Nazca 
  • Engage with our multidisciplinary teams, including fabrication and quality control, to ensure designs are manufacturable and adhere to quality standards. 
  • Participate in technical discussions, offering insights and suggestions to enhance our photonic solutions. 

What you’ll bring 

  • Currently pursuing or recently completed a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, Physics, or a related field. 
  • A strong foundation in FEM simulation tools and an eagerness to learn and apply new techniques. 
  • Basic knowledge of EDA design tools and a curiosity to explore PIC design intricacies. 
  • Strong experience with Python coding and optimization algorithms 
  • Excellent problem-solving abilities and a collaborative spirit to work effectively within our dynamic team. 
  • Fluency in English, both written and verbal, with strong communication skills to articulate technical concepts clearly. 

What We Offer 

  • A hands-on learning experience at the forefront of the PIC industry, directly contributing to advancements that redefine technological boundaries. 
  • A vibrant and supportive work environment where your contributions are valued and can lead to groundbreaking innovations. 
  • An opportunity to collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the field, gaining insights and knowledge that will be invaluable in your future career. 
  • Competitive compensation package to reflect the importance and impact of your work.

 

Join us if you are passionate about leveraging your academic background to contribute to advancing photonic technologies in a real-world setting. Please send us your application at jobs@lightium.co. We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted. 

Lightium is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. 

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