General information
Organisation
The French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) is a key player in research, development and innovation in four main areas :
• defence and security,
• nuclear energy (fission and fusion),
• technological research for industry,
• fundamental research in the physical sciences and life sciences.
Drawing on its widely acknowledged expertise, and thanks to its 16000 technicians, engineers, researchers and staff, the CEA actively participates in collaborative projects with a large number of academic and industrial partners.
The CEA is established in ten centers spread throughout France
Reference
2026-39399
Division description
CEA Leti, a technological research institute, is dedicated to innovating and transferring technological research to industry.
Within CEA/Leti, the Optics and Photonics Department (DOPT) is responsible for research, studies, and development in the field of optronics applications.
Description de l'unité
Within DOPT, the Silicon Photonics Integration Laboratory (LIPS) is a world leader in the development of photonic components and circuits for multiple applications, including ultra-high-speed optical communications, artificial intelligence, quantum photonics, and LIDAR.
The laboratory's expertise spans the design, fabrication, and characterization of silicon photonic chips, with extensive experience in integrating III-V lasers on silicon, silicon modulators, Ge-on-Si photodetectors, and SiN-on-Si circuits, offering breakthrough potential for emerging applications.
Position description
Category
Optics and Optronics
Contract
Fixed-term contract
Job title
Fixed-term contract - Research engineer in silicon photonic devices
Socio-professional category
Executive
Contract duration (months)
36
Job description
Why work with us?
We offer the opportunity to work in a unique research environment on a cutting-edge, innovative topic.
If you are passionate about photonics and nanotechnologies and want to strengthen your skills in designing high-speed components and circuits, join our multidisciplinary team of over 30 engineers and technicians!
In this fixed-term role, you will be responsible for:
- Design electro-optical modulators that meet current and future challenges in high-speed on-chip communications, using the modeling and layout tools available in the laboratory (optical, electro-optical, RF),
- Participate in monitoring the fabrication of prototypes,
- Lead modulator characterization (being yourself invovled in some specific characterizations / functionalization steps), analyze and compare the data to simulations or physical models.
The working environment will therefore be primarily office-based, alongside the entire silicon photonics team, in close proximity to the photonic testing benches.
Applicant Profile
What we are looking for ?
The essential requirement is your expertise in integrated optics, recognized through your international publications, combined with a good knowledge of the electro-optical properties of materials and manufacturing techniques used in micro and nanotechnologies.
Your strengths lie primarily in your skills in design (Lumerical, Comsol, HFSS, etc.), layout (Cadence), and characterization of electro-optical modulators, acquired through a first experience. They also include your ability to process your simulation and characterization data (Python, Matlab) and analyze them by synthesizing multidisciplinary information (optical, electrical, material, technological). Finally, your organizational skills, your ability to communicate with all project stakeholders (technicians, experts) to advance your developments, and your ability to synthesize and present your results at progress meetings or conferences are also key assets.
Practical experience in microfabrication in clean room is a plus.
Still have doubts? We provide:
- A cutting-edge, one-of-a-kind research ecosystem dedicated to high-impact societal challenges, internationally recognized.
- State-of-the-art technological facilities.
- A pleasant working environment with a committed team.
- A position in the heart of Grenoble, easily accessible by sustainable transport, financially supported by CEA.
- A recognized work-life balance.
- A Quality of Work Life (QWL) agreement, including the possibility of remote work if the position allows.
- Competitive compensation based on your profile and experience, with regular progression.
- Company savings plan with CEA contributions.
- A diversity and inclusion policy.
- Opportunities for professional growth through training and mobility support.
- An active Works Council (CSE) offering leisure and extracurricular activities.
In line with CEA’s commitments to integrating people with disabilities, this position is open to all. CEA provides accommodations and organizational arrangements to support the inclusion of employees with disabilities.
Position location
Site
Grenoble
Job location
France, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Isère (38)
Location
Grenoble
Candidate criteria
Languages
English (Intermediate)
Recommended training
Master's degree or Engineering degree
Requester
Position start date
01/04/2026