Intern, Digital Twin of Liquid Crystal… at Coherent Corp. · Santa…

Summary: Coherent Corp. is a global leader in lasers and engineered materials, and they are seeking an intern to develop a digital twin model for Liquid Crystal-based optical circuit switching architectures. The role involves modeling system performance, investigating switching architectures, and collaborating with engineers to refine models and validate simulation results. Responsibilities: - Develop a digital twin model for Liquid Crystal–based optical circuit switching architectures, including spatial light modulators, LC beam steering devices, and free-space optical relay systems - Model free-space optical propagation and system performance using optical design tools such as Zemax OpticStudio or equivalent ray-tracing platforms - Investigate polarization-diverse switching architectures to support polarization-insensitive operation and improve switching efficiency and scalability - Simulate electro-optic behavior of liquid crystal devices, including phase modulation, birefringence control, and beam steering mechanisms - Explore co-design methodologies that jointly optimize LC device physics and system architecture, including device parameters, optical layout, and switching fabric topology - Analyze key optical system parameters including: - Beam propagation and diffraction - Polarization effects and birefringence - Insertion loss and crosstalk - Switching contrast ratio - Optical alignment tolerances and stability - Perform tolerance and sensitivity analysis to evaluate the impact of optical alignment, mechanical stability, and thermal variation on switching performance - Use finite element analysis (FEA) tools (e.g., ANSYS, COMSOL) to model thermal effects, mechanical deformation, and packaging influences that may impact optical alignment or LC device behavior - Investigate AI-assisted digital twin modeling approaches, including machine learning techniques to accelerate simulation, predict device/system performance, and optimize switching architectures - Develop modeling and simulation frameworks using Python, MATLAB, or scientific computing environments - Collaborate with optical, device, and system engineers to refine models and validate simulation results against experimental measurements - Document research methodology and findings - Deliver a final technical report and presentation summarizing the digital twin architecture, modeling framework, and design insights for next-generation LC-based OCS systems Required Qualifications: - Current PhD candidate in one of the following fields: Optical Engineering, Photonics, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Materials Science (with electro-optic device focus) - Excellent written and verbal communication skills - Ability to work independently in a research-oriented environment - Strong analytical and quantitative problem-solving skills - Experience with optical design software such as Zemax OpticStudio or similar tools - Familiarity with free-space optical systems and polarization optics - Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) tools such as ANSYS or COMSOL - Programming experience in Python, MATLAB, or C/C++ for simulation and modeling - Sitting for extended periods while working on a computer or in meetings - Use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and handling documents - Occasional lifting of objects or materials up to 20 pounds - Ability to communicate verbally and in writing Preferred Qualifications: - Research experience in one or more of the following areas: Liquid crystal photonic devices, Spatial light modulators (SLM), Free-space optical systems, Optical switching architectures, Electro-optic modulation, Computational photonics or system modeling - Experience with liquid crystal devices, electro-optic modulation, or spatial light modulators is highly desirable - Exposure to machine learning or AI techniques for modeling or system optimization is a plus - Experience with multi-physics modeling or system simulation frameworks is highly desirable Required Skills: Optical design software, Liquid crystal devices, Finite element analysis, Programming in Python Important Skills: Machine learning techniques, Electro-optic modulation, Computational photonics Nice-to-Have Skills: Analytical problem-solving, Independent work, Collaboration skills