Student Project: High-resolution, Fast, and Low-cost Integrated Optical Spectroscopy

Optical spectrum analysis (OSA) is essential for various applications, including environmental monitoring, material characterization, and optical sensing. IMEC has introduced an innovative optical engine that leverages a linear chirp laser for high-resolution, low-cost, fast spectral analysis. Unlike traditional OSA-based or fine-tuning laser-based frequency sweeping schemes, the IMEC approach combines the advantages of fast and continuous linear chirp technology with a compact design suitable for real-world sensing scenarios.

What you will do

You will be working on the system design of an optical spectroscope, implementing the first IMEC high-resolution, fast, and low-cost demo system by combining IMEC’s fast linear chirp laser, IMEC’s instantaneous optical frequency estimator, and sensing techniques. You will engage in the following tasks:

• Literature review on the state-of-the-art in spectrum analysis-based optical sensing (requirements, challenges, and current solutions).
• Compare different spectrum analysis approaches (pros and cons in terms of resolution, cost, and test speed).
• Study the IMEC scheme in detail.
• Implement the proof-of-concept experiment of the IMEC solution.
  - Create a linearly Chirped Laser Source: provides fast frequency chirp signal to drive a laser.
  - Implement the chirp measurement unit: it is based on current IMEC research.
  - Read detector outputs by using a real-time scope.

• Finish signal processing and propose new solutions to solve encountered problems.
• 2-D spectrum plot: provides insight via intensity vs wavelength plot. 

What we do for you

You will be working on cutting-edge research on a topic that is highly relevant to both academic research and industrial applications. To help you in this journey, we offer a flexible environment where you can be the leader of your own research while at the same time having the support of world-leading experts from digital signal processing and photonic system designs to complete your tasks. As part of the PICS team in IMEC-Netherlands you will have opportunities to learn from some of the best minds in photonic integrated circuits and systems as well as other research domains. You will be supervised by world-renown Photonics-researchers. You will collaborate with experts in the field of photonics (e.g. LiDAR, Datacom, Optical Sensing...)

Who you are

• You are a MSc student with Optics/Photonics/Optical communication/Electrical Engineering or other relevant background.
• You are available for a period of 12 months (including thesis preparation).
• You are entitled to do internship in the Netherlands.
• You are self-starter and able to work independently.
• You possess programming skills (e.g. Python, Matlab).
• Skill in digital signal processing is a must.
• Knowledge on data analysis (In Matlab or Python) is a must.
• Having knowledge of optical systems/photonics is a plus.
• Design experimental systems (including lasers, PDs, signal generators, scope...) is a plus.
• Being able to write and/or present conference/journal papers is a plus.

Interested

Does this position sound like an interesting next step in your career at imec? Don’t hesitate to submit your application by clicking on ‘APPLY NOW’.
Should you have more questions about the job, you can contact Dr. Xuebing Zhang at xuebing.zhang@imec.nl.
Got some questions about the recruitment process? Martijn Kohl at jobs@imec.nl of the Talent Acquisition Team will be happy to assist you.