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Metasurfaces Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Metasurfaces information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Metasurfaces Research Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Metasurfaces Research Scientist, you need a strong background in physics, optics, nanofabrication, and materials science, typically supported by an advanced degree (PhD or MSc) in a related field. Familiarity with simulation tools like COMSOL Multiphysics, Lumerical, or CST, and experience with cleanroom fabrication and characterization equipment, are crucial. Critical thinking, creativity, and strong communication skills help in developing innovative solutions and collaborating within multidisciplinary teams. These competencies enable effective research, development, and translation of metasurface technologies into cutting-edge applications.

What are some of the typical challenges faced by professionals working in metasurfaces research and development?

Professionals in metasurfaces R&D often encounter challenges related to the precise fabrication of nanostructures, as even minor deviations can significantly impact device performance. Keeping up with rapid advancements in materials science and simulation tools is essential, as the field evolves quickly. Additionally, effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including physicists, engineers, and material scientists—is crucial for translating theoretical designs into practical applications. Balancing innovative research with real-world manufacturability is a common and rewarding aspect of the role.

What are metasurfaces?

Metasurfaces are ultra-thin, engineered surfaces composed of arrays of subwavelength structures designed to manipulate electromagnetic waves in specific ways. Unlike traditional materials, metasurfaces can control light or other electromagnetic waves at a very fine scale, enabling applications such as advanced lenses, holography, and invisibility cloaks. Researchers and engineers working with metasurfaces often engage in designing, fabricating, and testing these nanostructures to achieve unique optical or electromagnetic properties not found in nature.

What is the difference between Metasurfaces vs Optical Engineers?

AspectMetasurfacesOptical Engineers
Required credentialsPhysics or engineering degree, specialization in nanophotonicsEngineering degree, optics or photonics specialization
Work environmentResearch labs, nanofabrication facilitiesDesign labs, manufacturing, field testing
Industry usageResearch, advanced optics developmentOptical system design, product development

Metasurfaces are specialized nanostructured materials used to manipulate light at a subwavelength scale, often in research settings. Optical engineers design and develop optical systems and devices, applying principles of optics in practical applications. While both roles involve optics, metasurfaces focus on nanostructure fabrication and research, whereas optical engineers work on system-level design and implementation.

What are popular job titles related to Metasurfaces jobs in Minnesota? For Metasurfaces jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Metasurfaces jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Metasurfaces job openings:
Faculty Positions

$125K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

About the Job
 

About the Job 

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Minnesota Twin Cities invites applications in the areas of: i) computer engineering, ii) AI, iii) Optics and photonics. These are tenure-track / tenured faculty positions, hiring at the Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor levels; rank and salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. 

Computer Engineering:

Expertise in chip design and verification, design automation, computer architecture, and emerging computing platforms is of particular interest, including the fields of AI/ML, heterogeneous integration, quantum, and physics-inspired computing.

Collaboration in research and development in chip design, verification methods, electronic design automation, and computer architecture. Particular application areas of interest include (but are not limited to): AI/ML accelerator design, application of AI/ML for chip design and verification, domain-specific computing, heterogeneous architectures, hardware-algorithm co-design, quantum, and physics-inspired computing.

AI: 

Expertise in algorithms, theory, and applications across the fields of artificial intelligence and machine learning are of particular interest. 

Collaboration in research and development in basic and applied research in artificial intelligence and machine learning. Theoretical areas of interest include (but are not limited to) optimization, neural networks, and reinforcement learning. Application areas of interest include (but are not limited to) robotics, foundation models, image / signal processing, optimization, and control. 

Optics and Photonics:

Expertise in the fields of optics, photonics, nanophotonics, quantum optics, optical materials, devices, instrumentation, and systems including (but not limited to): Integrated and nano-scale photonics; metasurfaces, and plasmonics; Optical manufacturing, patterning, and machining techniques; Biophotonics and optical biosensing; Optical imaging and spectroscopy; Optical measurement and sensing science and instrumentation; Quantum optics; Optoelectronics and silicon photonics; Optical communications and interconnects. 

Collaboration in research and development of one or more of the above listed fields of expertise. Candidates whose work bridges optics and photonics with emerging areas such as quantum technologies or computing, packaging, neuroengineering, biomedical diagnostics, high power devices or systems, or AI-enabled systems are particularly encouraged to apply. Demonstrated ability in micro- and/or nano-fabrication is desirable; candidates are expected to make extensive use of the Minnesota Nano Center (MNC) cleanroom facilities.

Research

  • Develop research proposals for external funding opportunities and collaborate with researchers from academia and industry on joint research projects.
  • Engage in research, publication, and scientific creation.

Teaching

  • Develop and teach undergraduate and graduate courses in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.
  • Advise students regarding specific coursework and broader academic or career goals.

Service

  • Provide service through participation in governance of the department and/or the University.
  • Contribute to outreach activities that support the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering mission.
  • Contribute to the development of the profession, keep current with the field, and broaden knowledge and expertise.
Qualifications
 

Successful candidates will have outstanding academic and research records and are expected to establish a vigorous, funded research program, teach at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and be involved in service to the University and the profession. An earned doctorate or equivalent foreign degree in an appropriate discipline is required at the time of appointment. It is anticipated that the appointment will begin Fall 2026. Completion of PhD required. 

About the Department
 

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering is one of the largest departments within the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Minnesota. Current research areas include Biomedical and Biological Computation Methods; Devices and Systems; Communications, Signal Processing, and Networking; Computer Engineering, VLSI, and Circuits; Fields, Photonics, and Magnetics; Micro and Nano Structures; Sustainable Energy Systems, Power Electronics and Drives; Systems and Controls. To learn more about the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Minnesota, please visit the department website.

Pay and Benefits
 

Pay Range: Assistant Professor $110,000-$130,000, Associate Professor $125,000-$160,000, Full Professor $135,000-$230,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience 

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff 

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

  • Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
  • Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
  • Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
  • Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
  • University HSA contributions
  • Disability and employer-paid life insurance
  • Employee wellbeing program
  • Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
  • Financial counseling services 
  • Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
  • Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area
How To Apply
 

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, go to the Interfolio job site (https://apply.interfolio.com/176726) and follow the application instructions. To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

Diversity
 

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements
 

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About University of Minnesota
 

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of Americas Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).