Are you passionate about photonics and eager to apply your skills—whether in simulation, lab work, or coding—to real-world engineering challenges?

Lightium, a fast-growing startup at the forefront of ultra-high-speed photonic integrated circuits (PICs), invites master’s students or recent graduates in engineering or physics to join us for a 6-month paid internship. This is a unique opportunity to get hands-on with cutting-edge photonic technologies and actively contribute to developing the next generation of PICs.

Internship Summary

As part of our multidisciplinary R&D team, you will be immersed in developing and characterizing photonic components, circuits, and software tools that support our high-performance photonic platform. Depending on your skills and interests, you will work on optical simulations, experimental setups in our photonic lab, or developing automation tools. You’ll collaborate closely with our design, fabrication, and software teams, gaining holistic insight into the PIC development pipeline—from simulation to silicon.

Key Responsibilities

Depending on your background and focus, you may:

• Support the development and optimization of photonic PDK components using simulation tools like COMSOL and Lumerical.
• Model and simulate PICs for performance, manufacturability, and reliability.
• Design PIC layouts and GDS structures using Python-based EDA tools such as Luceda and GDSFactory.
• Set up and maintain optical measurement setups for characterizing passive and electro-optic components.
• Develop automation algorithms and analysis scripts for lab measurements and probe station control.
• Write clean, efficient, and well-documented Python code to support layout generation, DRC checks, and PDK development.
• Collaborate across design, fabrication, and characterization teams to validate and refine photonic components.
• Participate in technical discussions and knowledge sharing across the team.

What You’ll Bring

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a Master’s degree in Photonics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Interest and experience in one or more of the following: optical simulation, photonic measurements, RF techniques, or Python development.
• Hands-on familiarity with at least one domain-relevant tool or method (e.g., Lumerical, COMSOL, Luceda, GDS design, RF equipment, Python coding).
• A proactive, problem-solving mindset and strong collaborative skills.
• Fluent in English and the ability to clearly communicate technical concepts.

What We Offer

• Mentorship and guidance from experts in photonic design, fabrication, and software—helping you sharpen your skills and grow with confidence.
• A chance to apply your academic knowledge to real-world projects at the cutting edge of integrated photonics.
• Exposure to the fast-paced, high-growth environment of a deep-tech startup, where your work has immediate impact and visibility.
• A collaborative, innovation-driven team where your ideas are valued and your learning is a priority.
• Hands-on experience with advanced photonic tools, technologies, and experimental setups.

 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 result-driven environment.

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