Photonics Architect (f/m/d)

Permanent employee, Full-time · Aachen

About us
We see the semiconductor industry as a realm of possibility. We see opportunity. We see the profound impact that our graphene solutions will have in transforming the industry. We invite you to join us in driving change with our fundamentally human-centered approach, uniting bright minds around a shared vision. The vision is: Prove to everybody that you can make a fundamental change. Prove with your knowledge and skills how things can be done differently. Together, we can change the paradigm of how the world connects
About our technology
The semiconductor industry’s growing demand for more powerful chips with higher bandwidth and lower power finds its solution in our technology. We connect chips to high-throughput, low-delay computing networks. The key lies in harnessing the physical properties of graphene to combine electronic computing with photonic communication, allowing countless chips to interact almost as if they were one. Our graphene photonic innovation increases computing power and efficiency to a new order of magnitude 
 
In short, we connect chips to create powerful and energy-efficient networks, overcoming connectivity limitations in the semiconductor industry. We deliver the graphene solution
The Role
Black Semiconductor is seeking an innovative and visionary Photonics Architect (f/m/d) to join our product architecture team. In this pivotal role, you will be instrumental in defining and shaping the future of AI, high-performance computing and data movement using our state-of-the-art photonics platform based on integrated graphene photonics. You will be responsible for architecting novel photonics interconnect solutions that eliminate traditional electronic bottlenecks, enabling unprecedented data throughput and energy efficiency for advanced compute systems

This is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of photonics, silicon design, and large-scale system architecture, driving the integration of revolutionary optical technologies into core computing platforms
To join our team, you should be excited to
  • Define System Architecture: Lead the architectural definition of photonics-enabled interconnects for high-performance compute clusters, including CPUs, AI accelerators, and memory systems
  • Building Block Selection & Integration: Evaluate, select, and define the specifications for fundamental photonics building blocks (e.g., modulators, detectors, waveguides, light sources) and their integration within complex semiconductor packages and interposers
  • Interconnect Strategy: Develop comprehensive strategies for inter-chip and intra-chip optical communication, ensuring seamless, high-bandwidth, and low-latency data flow across heterogeneous computing devices
  • Performance & Power Optimization: Architect photonics solutions that significantly improve system-level performance (throughput, latency) and power efficiency, directly addressing the limitations of traditional electrical interconnects (e.g., RC delay)
  • Roadmap & Innovation: Contribute to the long-term technology roadmap for photonics computing devices and optical interconnects, identifying emerging technologies and driving their adoption
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with chip design teams, silicon engineers, packaging experts, software developers, and operations teams to ensure architectural feasibility, manufacturability, and successful deployment of photonics-enabled systems
  • Modeling & Simulation: Utilize and guide advanced modeling and simulation techniques to predict and validate the performance of photonics architectures from device to system level
  • Problem Solving: Identify and solve complex architectural challenges related to optical signal integrity, thermal management, reliability, and scalability in photonics-integrated systems
Your Qualifications
  • Master’s or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optics, Computer Engineering, or a related field
  • 8+ years of experience in semiconductor or high-tech industries, with a focus on optical interconnects or photonics devices
  • Proven experience in defining and architecting complex systems involving high-speed data communication
  • Strong understanding of photonics principles, devices (e.g., silicon photonics, graphene photonics, III-V materials), and their applications in interconnect and computing
  • Experience with the challenges and limitations of traditional electronic interconnects
  • Demonstrated experience in a lead architect role for photonics-enabled systems
  • Deep understanding of co-packaged optics (CPO) and glass panel interposer technologies
  • Experience with AI/ML accelerator architectures and the specific interconnect demands of these workloads
  • Proficiency in system-level modeling, simulation tools, and architectural analysis
  • Familiarity with semiconductor manufacturing processes and design for manufacturability (DFM) for photonics
  • Ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear architectural specifications and communicate effectively with diverse technical and non-technical audiences
  • Experience with cloud infrastructure and data center environments
  • Experience with Interconnect, time domain simulation, or similar software
  • Experience with Lumerical CML or any other compact model library
Other 
  • Proactive, versatile, and adaptive character 
  • Highly organized and structured approach to work 
  • Strong analytical skills and excellent communication skills in English
Our work culture
People Over Processes. At Black Semiconductor, flexibility is key—we ensure work adapts to life, not the other way around. We champion work-life harmony, where careers are meaningful and enriching. Our processes are human-centric, allowing you to focus on what matters 
Let’s grow together. Your potential is our priority. We provide the autonomy to make a lasting impact and nurture your growth through a culture of continuous learning. We invest in your journey for professional and personal development  
Your Health and Future Matter. Your well-being is paramount. We offer a comprehensive benefits package with outstanding insurance, pension and virtual stock options for your mental, physical, and financial health. Your peace of mind is our priority - in the present and future  
We Live Openness. Collaboration and inclusivity are the cornerstones of our culture. We practice openness, fostering trust and respect. Individuality is our collective strength, fueling innovation and driving us forward  
   
We connect chips – and people.  We encourage qualified individuals from any background to apply. We foster an inclusive and supportive work environment that values collaboration, innovation, and growth. Join our team and be part of an organization dedicated to making a difference in the industry  
   
Can you picture yourself in this Role and our Company? Let’s connect
Your application!
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