PIC Characterization Intern

Are you passionate about photonics and eager to apply your skills to real-world engineering challenges? Lightium, a fast-growing startup at the forefront of ultra-high-speed photonic integrated circuits (PICs), invites master students or recent graduates in engineering or physics to join us for a
6-month
, full-time, paid internship. This is a unique opportunity to actively contribute to developing the next generation of PICs in a vibrant and interdisciplinary startup environment.

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 thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) photonic platform. You will have the opportunity to work on state-of-the-art radio frequency (RF) and optical measurement setups, both at die level and wafer level. You will collaborate closely with our design, fabrication, and software teams, gaining holistic insight into the PIC development pipeline - from simulation over hardware to their characterization.

Key Responsibilities

• Developing automation algorithms and statistical analysis scripts for an automated wafer probe station.
• Supporting characterization activities and campaigns for photonic devices.
• Performing a wide range of measurements, including electrical and optical, active and passive, steady-state, and high-frequency (RF).
• Interpreting, troubleshooting, and documenting results together with the characterization team to gain a deep understanding of the circuit operating principles and possible failure modes.
• Collaborating across design and fabrication teams to validate and refine photonic components.
• Contributing to technical discussions and sharing knowledge.

What You'll Bring

• Current student or recent master's graduate in: Photonics, Electrical Engineering, Communications Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or related field.
• Completion of a photonics course or relevant education is a must.
• Interest and experience in one or more of the following: optical measurement setup builds, photonic measurements, RF techniques, or Python programming.
• Curiosity about lab automation, handling big data, and automated report generation.
• A proactive, problem-solving mindset with strong collaborative skills.
• Fluency in English and the ability to clearly communicate technical concepts. German or French is a plus.

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
• A competitively paid position with the possibility to transition into a full-time role with Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP) upon outstanding performance
• The ability to participate in continuing education (training, conferences, events, etc.)
• Being treated like a regular member of the team - inclusion at team events and our annual fall retreat
• 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

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.

Please note that we are unfortunately only allowed to offer this internship to European Union or Swiss nationals or to Third Country Nationals who are enrolled in Swiss universities with internship requirements.