Chief Expert – Advanced LCOS Design & Display Technology

You will be joining an established automotive optics team within a world-leading technology company at their lab Jena.
 

We are seeking a high-level technical authority to lead the research and development of Liquid Crystal on Silicon (LCOS) technology. This role is focused on achieving technical milestones in spatial light modulation for sophisticated automotive displays and high-performance imaging engines.

Responsibilities

• Lead Electro-Optical Innovation: Drive fundamental improvements in LCOS performance by exploring specialized liquid crystal modes, advanced cell structures, and novel alignment techniques. Your goal is to optimize response times, maximize contrast, and enhance phase stability for complex projection systems.
• End-to-End System Architecture: Conceptualize and model entire display ecosystems from initial theory to functional prototypes. This includes architecting the full optical path—incorporating illumination and projection optics—to achieve industry-leading efficiency and visual clarity.
• Strategic R&D Management: Coordinate with global fabrication partners and internal interdisciplinary teams (spanning materials science, electronics, and mechanical engineering) to bring high-complexity optical designs to life.
• Academic & Research Leadership: Spearhead collaborative ventures with university partners and external research institutes to push the boundaries of liquid crystal applications in display technology.
• Intellectual Property Development: Secure technical advantages for the organization by authoring patents and contributing to high-impact technical publications.

Qualifications

• Educational Background: An advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in Physics, Photonics, Optoelectronics, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Liquid Crystal Expertise: Extensive professional history in the design, testing, and characterization of devices based on liquid crystals. Direct experience with LCOS modules for imaging or projection is highly desired.
• Optical Engineering Knowledge: Strong grasp of light engine architectures, diffractive optical elements (such as metasurfaces or subwavelength gratings), and general imaging optics.
• Simulation & Modeling: Proficiency in electromagnetic computational methods—specifically FDTD or RCWA—to simulate light interaction with micro-structured components.
• Software Proficiency: Hands-on experience with programming languages like Python or C++, and familiarity with simulation suites such as FEM software.
• Mobility: Ability to travel globally (approximately 20%) to interface with manufacturing partners and research stakeholders.