Masters (MSc) Grant

Si-Ware Systems is offering an MSc Research Grant under an EU-funded project to advance state-of-the-art miniaturized Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. This Master’s thesis will focus directly on the technology maturation, hardware integration, and optical engineering of next-generation MEMS-based spectral analyzers operating in the mid-infrared spectrum (1.3 µm to 10 µm). One direction within the Master’s thesis focuses on the design, microfabrication, and optical integration of low-cost disposable sampling accessories (microfluidic sample holders) to enable hygienic point-of-care diagnostics and field-based testing. A key challenge in point-of-care healthcare testing (e.g., blood and urine analysis) is eliminating sample-to-sample cross-contamination while keeping per-test costs low. The student will lead the engineering and prototyping of mass-producible, disposable optical interfaces (micromachined from silicon, glass, or polymers) designed to couple seamlessly with Si-Ware’s MEMS-based FTIR optical core. On the other hand, work on co-integration of Si-Ware & Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) MEMS chip with mid-IR light sources, photodetectors, optical coupling components, and processing / power subsystems will be done. Refine MEMS designs for improved optical performance and fabrication tolerance, develop wafer-level screening methods to eliminate non- performing PICs early, optimize optical core module packaging, and support lab testing for prototypes. Finally, co-integration of the optimized optical core into a new generation generic analyzer and specialized analyzers for soil and healthcare applications.

Responsibilities include the following:

• Conduct literature surveys, technical research, and technology assessments to identify emerging optical technologies, methodologies, and industry best practices.

• Contribute to continuous improvement, innovation initiatives, technical publications, patent disclosures, and intellectual property development related to optical technologies.

• Design, develop, and optimize optical systems, subsystems, and components for sensor prototypes.

• Perform optical modeling, simulation, analysis, and performance evaluation activities.

• Execute optical characterization, testing, verification, and validation activities to ensure compliance with technical requirements.

• Support the integration of optical subsystems with MEMS, electronics, mechanical, software, and overall system architectures.

• Develop optical layouts, component arrangements, and system configurations to meet functional, performance, and manufacturability requirements.

• Participate in design reviews and provide technical input regarding optical architectures, performance, and implementation approaches.

• Collaborate with suppliers and external partners on optical component evaluation, testing, and qualification activities.

• A B.Sc. degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, Applied Physics, Electronics Engineering or a related discipline.

• Knowledge of optical design principles, imaging systems, optical characterization, and performance analysis.

• Familiarity with optical simulation and design tools is a plus.

• Knowledge with optical laboratory equipment, testing methodologies, and data analysis techniques.

• Familiarity with any scripting language is preferable.

• Knowledge with working within multidisciplinary product development environments involving MEMS, electronics, software, and systems engineering.

• Excellent documentation skills.

• Very good command of English language.

• Strong problem-solving, technical communication, and collaboration skills.

• Teamwork orientation, effective verbal & written communication skills, & have tendency towards creativity & innovation.

• Pro-active & initiative.