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

Primary Duties & 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.

Education & Experience

• Current PhD candidate in one of the following fields:

• Optical Engineering
• Photonics
• Electrical Engineering
• Applied Physics
• Materials Science (with electro-optic device focus)

• Research experience in one or more of the following areas is preferred:

• Liquid crystal photonic devices
• Spatial light modulators (SLM)
• Free-space optical systems
• Optical switching architectures
• Electro-optic modulation
• Computational photonics or system modeling

• Open to currently enrolled PhD students or those who have graduated within one year of the internship start date.

Skills

• This role will be based on-site in [Santa Clara, CA].
• Regular use of a computer and engineering simulation tools is required.
• Collaboration with cross-disciplinary teams including optical, device, and system engineers.

Physical Requirements

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.

Safety Requirements

All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Culture Commitment

Ensure adherence to company’s values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:

Integrity – Create an Environment of Trust

Collaboration – Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas

Accountability – Own the Process and the Outcome

Respect – Recognize the Value in Everyone

Enthusiasm – Find a Sense of Purpose in Work

Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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