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Junior Photonics & RF Engineer

RF beamforming systems based on microwave photonics

If you are interested or have questions, please contact us at photonics-rf@uma.es, including a short CV and a letter of interest. We look forward to hearing from you!

About us

The Photonics & RF Research Lab at the University of Málaga is a leading research group specializing in integrated photonics and radiofrequency technologies. With a strong focus on high-impact research, industrial collaboration, and entrepreneurship, our team consists of 11 full-time professors, 2 postdoctoral researchers, 7 PhD students and 15 Bachelor/Master students working on cutting-edge photonic technologies. Our expertise spans Subwavelength Metamaterials, Integrated Photonics for Communication and Sensing, and Microwave Photonics. As a fabless research group, we focus on the design, modeling, and experimental characterization of integrated photonic devices, collaborating with leading international foundries for fabrication. Two high-tech spin-offs (AGPhotonics and Bioherent) launched in the last 4 years based on the group’s industrial property. Our lab is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for photonic simulation and optical measurements, ensuring that our research remains at the forefront of technological innovation.

Job description

We are looking for a Junior Photonics and RF engineer to work on a collaborative project with a world leader in mobile communications. This project focuses on developing RF beamforming systems for 5G/6G by leveraging microwave photonics technology. The goal is to enhance the performance and efficiency of next-generation mobile networks by integrating photonic solutions for advanced beam steering and signal processing. The successful candidate will engage in the design, implementation, and validation of beamforming architectures utilizing photonic technologies. Key responsibilities include:

  • Assist in the design and simulation of photonic circuits for beamforming applications.
  • Support the fabrication and packaging processes of photonic chips.
  • Participate in developing testbeds for experimental characterization of devices.
  • Contribute to data analysis and documentation of research findings.

Required qualifications

We are seeking an individual with the following qualifications:

  • Currently enrolled or recently completed a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Telecommunications Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Applied Physics, or related fields.
  • Strong understanding of electromagnetism, with a keen interest in expanding expertise in RF, Microwave, and Photonics engineering.
  • Basic familiarity with electromagnetic simulation tools (e.g., HFSS, AWR, Lumerical) is advantageous but not mandatory.
  • Strong analytical skills and a willingness to learn and adapt.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented research environment.
  • Experience with general engineering software such as Matlab, Labview and programming languages such as C/C++, Python…
  • Exhibit passion, energy, and a high level of motivation to contribute to R&D projects and initiatives.

Working conditions

We offer you an inclusive and strongly collaborative working environment, with:

  • Free enrolment in the “Expert in Integrated Photonics” degree offered by University of Málaga.
  • Integration into a very dynamic team of professors and students working on the Photonics and RF research lab. Possibility of collaboration with deep tech spin-off companies.
  • Work on applied-oriented research in close collaboration with a world leader in mobile communications.
  • Candidates interested in pursuing a PhD will have the opportunity to do so within the scope of this project.
  • Competitive salary that will be determined based on the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and overall profile.
  • Funding for two years, with the possibility of extension subject to available funding and performance.
  • Tentative starting date April/May 2025.