Integrated Photonics PhD Intern - Fall 2025

Job Description

Job Description

HyperLight is at the forefront in commercialization of thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) integrated photonics - a material and process technology that is enabling high-performance, scalable optical components across AI/datacom infrastructure, hyperscale computing, quantum computing, sensing, and beyond. Founded in 2018 and backed by leading venture capital, we’ve built a team and a platform focused on real-world mass deployment of TFLN photonics technology.

At the core of our work is the TFLN Chiplet™ platform — a modular, integrated architecture designed for scalability, manufacturability, and seamless integration into complex systems. It offers a rare combination of extraordinary performance and industrial readiness, enabling system developers across applications to deploy the technology fast and ready. We partner with our customers and suppliers from conceptualization, design, and prototyping phases, all the way through mass production to ensure smooth and rapid deployment of TFLN photonic technology.

We believe our platform is the key, in the golden age of integrated photonics industry, to empower humanity to the next level. We assembled a world class team covering engineering, business and operations. We believe in the power of integrity, innovation, collaboration and pragmatic solutions. Our diverse team thrives on challenges and is united by a shared commitment to excellence. We take pride in tackling complex challenges with curiosity, humility, and a deep sense of care for one another.

As HyperLight continues to expand, we are looking for an Integrated Photonics PhD Intern for Fall 2025. This position offers a unique opportunity to participate in the technical parts of our integrated photonics product. This position will involve the measurement and testing of the product (at both chip level and module level), improvement of the test capabilities (building new test functionalities and test setups), and the development of the next-gen products. This is an exceptional opportunity to immerse yourself in the forefront of photonics while gaining valuable experience in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, and high-growth environment.

Responsibilities:

• Perform optical and electrical testing of integrated photonic devices and systems.
• Improvement of the test capabilities (building new test functionalities and test setups)
• Assist in optimizing test protocols and to enhance efficiency and accuracy
• Drive the R&D to improve product performance such as optical, RF, electro-optical performance
• Analyze and interpret experimental data to validate device performance and identify areas for improvement
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including design and fabrication, to address performance challenges

HyperLight is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

Requirements

• Current Ph.D. or Master student in a Photonics related field such as Physics, Optics, Engineering
• Strong understanding of integrated photonics, silicon photonics, or related technologies
• Experience with electro-optical modulator is a plus
• Familiarity with fiber alignment systems and free-space optics setups is a plus
• Proficiency in data analysis using tools such as Python, MATLAB, or equivalent
• Experience with photonic device simulation tools (e.g., Lumerical, COMSOL) is a plus
• Strong written & oral commination skills
• Ability to work under time constraints
• Ability to solve problems in new and/or ambiguous scenarios

Benefits

• Competitive market-based compensation
• Professional growth and mentorship opportunities
• Opportunity to convert to full-time employment
• Regular team lunches