Senior R&D Scientist

To support the next phase of growth of its SNSPD platform, IDQ is looking for a Senior R&D Scientist to join its team in Geneva. This role targets a highly motivated PhD-level candidate with a strong background in experimental physics, optics, or engineering, and a drive to rethink and scale testing methodologies for advanced photonic devices. The position focuses on developing and implementing next-generation testing and metrology approaches to enable scalable, reliable, and high-throughput characterization of SNSPD technologies. The successful candidate will work at the intersection of device physics, optical testing, and system-level thinking, in close collaboration with R&D, engineering, and industrialization teams.

Responsibilities

Lead the development of advanced testing strategies for SNSPD devices, with a focus on scalability and throughput; Rethink and optimize existing characterization methodologies, including possibly the transition toward wafer-level testing approaches; Develop and operate optical and cryogenic measurement setups for device characterization; Analyse and interpret complex datasets to guide device design and process improvements while driving experimental investigations to understand performance limits and variability across devices and wafers; Collaborate closely with fabrication, packaging, and system teams to ensure test compatibility with manufacturing flows; Document methodologies, results, and best practices in a structured and transferable way

Requirements

Master’s degree in Physics, Engineering, or a closely related field; 3+ years of experience in experimental physics or a related field; Strong foundation in hands-on experimental work or engineering; Proven experience testing and characterizing optical or photonic systems (e.g., optoelectronic devices, waveguides, or similar platforms); Solid understanding of measurement science and metrology principles, with experience designing or improving experimental setups; Strong data analysis skills, with the ability to extract meaningful insights from complex measurements; Ability to work autonomously while collaborating effectively across multidisciplinary teams; Fluent in English

Nice to have

French; PhD or Master’s degree in Physics, Engineering, or a closely related field; Strong hands-on background in optics or photonics experimental work; 5+ years of experience working in industry

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans; Matching 401(k); Unlimited PTO and paid holidays; Parental/adoption leave; Legal insurance; Home technology stipend