Senior Photonic Device Scientist – Nanofiber Cavities

Join our team to innovate cutting-edge quantum technologies and drive advancements in quantum computing.

  • Location
    Tokyo, Japan.
  • Employment Type
    Full time
  • Location Type
    On-site

Why join us

Take scientific ownership of a core photonic technology for next-generation quantum communication. In this high-autonomy role, you will advance nanofiber cavity performance from fundamental physics through experimental validation, helping translate research breakthroughs into manufacturable devices.

Role overview

You will lead research and development on the fundamental properties and performance of nanofiber cavities. The work spans physics analysis, mathematical modeling, device design, fabrication studies, optical characterization, and close collaboration with engineers and external manufacturing partners. Your focus will be shaped by your expertise, project priorities, and interests.

What you will own

  • Define and execute research programs that improve nanofiber cavity performance beyond current benchmarks.
  • Develop physical models and use them to guide device architecture and experimental design.
  • Design, build, and refine experiments for device fabrication and characterization.
  • Analyze results rigorously, identify root causes, and translate findings into practical design improvements.
  • Collaborate across optics, mechanics, materials, electronics, and software.
  • Generate inventions and technical results suitable for patent applications and peer-reviewed publication, subject to company policy.

Required qualifications

  • PhD in physics, optical engineering, photonics, or a related field—or equivalent advanced industry R&D experience.
  • At least four years of relevant research and development experience, which may include doctoral or postdoctoral research.
  • Hands-on experience in at least one of the following: advanced optical-fiber technology; high-finesse optical cavities; experimental quantum optics; or precision analysis, control, and measurement of complex optical systems.
  • Evidence of independently leading a focused research project from hypothesis through experimental validation.
  • Strong experimental judgment, quantitative analysis skills, and the ability to make progress in an open-ended development environment.
  • Professional working proficiency in English.

Preferred qualifications

  • Experience with fiber processing, fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs), or optical cavities.
  • Experience with ultrahigh-vacuum systems or cleanroom work.
  • Breadth across one or more adjacent disciplines, such as mechanics, materials or chemistry, programming, or electronics.
  • Experience collaborating with equipment makers or other external development partners.
  • Knowledge of quantum technologies; direct quantum-domain experience is welcome but not required. A strong interest in quantum communication is essential.

What success looks like

You establish a clear scientific roadmap, deliver reproducible improvements in device performance, and convert key findings into device designs, intellectual property, publications, or manufacturing requirements.

Language

  • English: Professional working proficiency.
  • Japanese: Not required.

Compensation

  • Competitive salary

Benefits

  • Comprehensive Japanese Social Insurance Coverage:
    • Health insurance / Employees’ pension insurance / Employment insurance / Workers’ compensation insurance
  • Work Schedule and Leave Benefits:
    • Five-day workweek (weekends off) / Paid annual leave / Year-end and New Year holidays / Summer vacation
    • Other leave programs in accordance with applicable Japanese laws and regulations

Relevant keywords

Photonics; nanofiber cavities; optical fiber; fiber Bragg grating (FBG); high-finesse cavity; quantum optics; quantum communication; precision measurement; optical modeling; device physics; ultrahigh vacuum; cleanroom

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