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How to get into optical / photonics integrated circuits design engineering?

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Hello all, trying to get insight in how to be a part of optical communications systems, particularly in the electronics/mixed signal IC design. Also think it’s really cool to be part of optical quantum computing arising from photonics IC’s / optical IC’s. I think laser comms are fascinating, I’ve just found out about optical IC design engineers, my goodness I couldn’t think of a cooler job. Yet, also not sure how niche this is, for example a google search for this only pops up 5 total jobs. If I can get into this field with RFIC, I’ll pursue an RFIC focuses masters (MSEE) and try to transition.

I’m very interested in analog electronics/IC’s, so I’m pursuing RFIC for my masters EE focus. I’ve seen a few jobs optical IC jobs where they want an anlog IC/ RFIC/ mixed signal design engineer, with just some familiarity in optics. So I may try a RFIC masters, and just take a couple optics EE courses for breadth and familiarity. Trying to seek input on if RFIC can get me into chip design for laser optical comms systems? Or would I need to do photonic electronics? I’m fascinated by the upcoming space laser comms systems coming out, and really have a passion for my career into space engineering. Trying to find out if RFIC can get me into space laser comms . Very interested in RFIC too.

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Reply To: How to get into optical / photonics integrated circuits design engineering?

In reply to How to get into optical / photonics integrated circuits design engineering?

I suggest that you speak with your school/institution guidance counselor.

To enter the field of optical/photonics integrated circuit (PIC) design eng

In reply to How to get into optical / photonics integrated circuits design engineering?

To enter the field of optical/photonics integrated circuit (PIC) design engineering:

Obtain a relevant educational background in electrical engineering, photonics, or optics.
Gain knowledge in photonics and its applications.
Develop core engineering skills in circuit design and semiconductor devices.
Specialize in PIC design through coursework or research opportunities.
Seek hands-on experience through internships or research projects.
Network with professionals and stay updated on industry advancements.
Learn and use industry-standard design tools and software.
Build a portfolio showcasing PIC design projects or research.
Search for job opportunities in photonics, optoelectronics, or semiconductor companies.
Stay curious, continuously learn, and adapt to new technologies.

Reply To: How to get into optical / photonics integrated circuits design engineering?

In reply to How to get into optical / photonics integrated circuits design engineering?

I am fascinated by the upcoming space laser comms systems coming out, and really have a passion for my career in space engineering. Trying to find out if RFIC can get me into space laser comms. Very interested in RFIC too.

Reply To: How to get into optical / photonics integrated circuits design engineering?

In reply to How to get into optical / photonics integrated circuits design engineering?

It’s fantastic to hear about your passion for optical communications systems, mixed-signal IC design, and your interest in space engineering. Your enthusiasm is a great foundation for a fulfilling career in these fields.

Here are some insights and recommendations:

1. **RFIC for Optical Communications:** RFIC (Radio-Frequency Integrated Circuit) design can indeed be a valuable background for working in optical communications systems, especially in areas where RF and optical technologies intersect, such as satellite communications. Your experience with RFIC can be an asset in designing components of optical communication systems that involve RF aspects, such as RF front-end modules, transceivers, or signal processing for optical communications.

2. **Taking Optics Courses:** Considering your interest in laser communication and photonics ICs, taking optics-related courses as part of your EE program is an excellent idea. These courses can provide you with the necessary foundation in optics and photonics, allowing you to bridge the gap between RFIC and optical IC design.

3. **Mixed-Signal IC Design:** Mixed-signal design engineers are valuable in the field of optical communications because they can work on the interface between analog RF and digital signal processing components. This is crucial for the efficient handling and conversion of optical signals.

4. **Space Engineering and Laser Comms:** If your goal is to work on space laser communication systems, having expertise in RFIC and mixed-signal design can be beneficial. Space laser communication systems often involve RF components for spacecraft communication and laser systems for high-speed data transmission.

5. **Photonic Electronics:** While not strictly necessary for all roles in optical communications, knowledge of photonic electronics and photonics IC design can open up specialized opportunities. If you find a strong interest in this area, you might consider pursuing advanced courses or a Ph.D. program focused on photonics.

6. **Job Availability:** The number of job listings for optical IC design engineers can vary by region and industry demand. Keep an eye on job boards and consider networking with professionals in the field to get a better sense of job availability and potential career paths.

In summary, pursuing a master’s degree in EE with a focus on RFIC, supplemented by optics-related courses, is a well-rounded approach. This educational background, combined with your pa

Reply To: How to get into optical / photonics integrated circuits design engineering?

In reply to How to get into optical / photonics integrated circuits design engineering?

To get into optical/photonics integrated circuits (IC) design engineering, consider these steps:

Pursue a Master’s in Electrical Engineering (MSEE) with an RFIC focus for a strong foundation.
Take optics or photonics courses to gain relevant knowledge.
Seek internships or research opportunities in optical or photonics IC design.
Network with professionals in the field.
Work on projects related to optical communications during your studies.
Apply for positions requiring analog IC/RFIC/mixed-signal design engineers with optics familiarity.
Stay updated with industry developments.
Your RFIC knowledge can be valuable for space laser comms systems too. Good luck!

Reply To: How to get into optical / photonics integrated circuits design engineering?

In reply to How to get into optical / photonics integrated circuits design engineering?

Getting into optical/photonics integrated circuits (PIC) design engineering requires a combination of education, skills, and networking. Photonics is an exciting and rapidly growing field that combines optics and electronics to create integrated circuits for various applications. Here are the steps to help you get started in this field:

1. Educational Background:
a. Bachelor’s Degree: Start with a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as electrical engineering, optics, photonics, or physics. Ensure you have a strong foundation in mathematics and physics.
b. Master’s or Ph.D.: Consider pursuing a master’s or Ph.D. in photonics, optics, or a closely related field. This advanced education will provide a deeper understanding of the subject matter and make you a more competitive candidate.

2. Develop a Strong Foundation:
a. Gain proficiency in optical and photonic fundamentals, including wave theory, electromagnetic theory, and optics.
b. Acquire knowledge in semiconductor device physics and integrated circuit design principles.
c. Learn about semiconductor fabrication processes that are relevant to photonics.

3. Hands-On Experience:
a. Join photonics-related research projects or labs during your academic studies to gain hands-on experience with optical and photonic components and systems.
b. Participate in internships or co-op programs with companies or research institutions specializing in photonics.

4. Learn Relevant Tools and Software:
a. Familiarize yourself with software used for PIC design, simulation, and modeling. Popular tools include Lumerical, COMSOL, and RSoft.

5. Build Technical Skills:
a. Develop proficiency in programming languages such as Python and MATLAB, which are commonly used for simulation and data analysis in photonics.
b. Learn how to use design and simulation tools for PIC design, such as layout design software (e.g., Cadence, Synopsys).

6. Networking:
a. Attend photonics conferences, workshops, and seminars to network with professionals and researchers in the field.
b. Join relevant organizations and societies like SPIE (The International Society for Optics and Photonics) to connect with experts and stay updated on industry trends.

7. Create a Portfolio:
a. Document your projects, research, and practical experience related to photonics. Having a portfolio or resume that showcases your work can be a valuable asset when applying for jobs.

8. Job Search

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