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Optical Display Research Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team of optical scientists, simulation engineers, and display architects to advance the state of the art in AI enabled AR devices. Display Research ...

Display Research Scientist

Redmond, WA · On-site

$154K - $217K/yr

... display systems. This role is focused on long term research typically aiming for a 5+ year horizon ... You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team of optical scientists, simulation engineers ...

... displays. This is a fundamental research role driving a long-term research roadmap to establish the ... Research Scientist, Optical Systems Responsibilities: * Develop and optimize techniques and ...

... displays. This is a fundamental research role driving a long-term research roadmap to establish the ... Research Scientist, Optical Systems Responsibilities: * Develop and optimize techniques and ...

... displays. This is a fundamental research role driving a long-term research roadmap to establish the ... Research Scientist, Optical Systems Responsibilities: * Develop and optimize techniques and ...

... panel displays. The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with ... Learn and apply optical system design principles, including performance, manufacturability, and ...

Optics Research Scientist

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$136K - $231K/yr

... panel displays. The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with ... Learn and apply optical system design principles, including performance, manufacturability, and ...

... panel displays. The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with ... Learn and apply optical system design principles, including performance, manufacturability, and ...

... displays, and data/video recording and storage for airborne and ground vehicle platforms. Our ... Apply experience in electrical/optical design and modeling/simulation tools to accurately represent ...

... displays, and data/video recording and storage for airborne and ground vehicle platforms. Our ... Apply experience in electrical/optical design and modeling/simulation tools to accurately represent ...

Research Scientist

Torrance, CA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

... displays, and data/video recording and storage for airborne and ground vehicle platforms. Our ... Apply experience in electrical/optical design and modeling/simulation tools to accurately represent ...

Research Scientist

Torrance, CA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

... displays, and data/video recording and storage for airborne and ground vehicle platforms. Our ... Apply experience in electrical/optical design and modeling/simulation tools to accurately represent ...

Optics Research Scientist

Maplewood, MN · On-site

$124K - $151K/yr

Optics Research Scientist Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to ... Ph.D. in Optical Sciences, Physics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical ...

Optics Research Scientist

Maplewood, MN · On-site

$124K - $151K/yr

Optics Research Scientist Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to ... Ph.D. in Optical Sciences, Physics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical ...

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Optical Display Research Scientist information

See salary details

$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do optical display research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical display research scientist in the United States is $130,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an optical display research scientist do?

An Optical Display Research Scientist specializes in researching and developing new technologies for visual display systems, such as those used in TVs, monitors, AR/VR headsets, and smartphones. Their work involves exploring advanced materials, optical engineering, and imaging techniques to improve display quality, energy efficiency, and user experience. They may design experiments, analyze data, and collaborate with engineers to bring innovative display solutions from concept to prototype. These scientists play a crucial role in advancing the capabilities of consumer electronics and emerging display technologies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical display research scientist?

To thrive as an Optical Display Research Scientist, you need a solid background in physics, optics, materials science, and a relevant advanced degree such as a PhD or master's in these fields. Familiarity with optical simulation software (like Zemax or LightTools), laboratory instruments, and experience in experimental design and analysis are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and effective teamwork and communication skills help drive innovation and collaboration. These competencies are essential for advancing display technologies and ensuring research translates into practical, high-performance products.

What are some common challenges optical display research scientists face when developing new display technologies?

Optical Display Research Scientists often encounter challenges such as balancing high image quality with energy efficiency, ensuring manufacturability at scale, and integrating new materials or components with existing systems. They must also stay current with rapid advancements in display technologies and work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including electrical engineers and product designers, to translate research findings into viable commercial products. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as priorities can shift quickly based on technological breakthroughs or market needs.

What is the difference between Optical Display Research Scientist vs Optical Engineer?

AspectOptical Display Research ScientistOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in optics, physics, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in optical engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, academic settingsProduct development, manufacturing, technical design teams
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, display manufacturers, research institutionsElectronics companies, display technology firms, optical component manufacturers

While both roles involve optics and display technologies, an Optical Display Research Scientist primarily focuses on fundamental research and developing new display technologies, often working in labs or academic settings. An Optical Engineer applies optical principles to design, develop, and improve display products in a more applied, product-oriented environment. Both roles require strong optics knowledge but differ in their focus on research versus application.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Display Research Scientist jobs?

For Optical Display Research Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Optical Display Research Scientist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Display Research Scientist

Redmond, WA

Meta
Internet and IT • 10K+ employees

$154K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Research and develop advanced optical elements for future AR display systems, including designing, modeling, and fabricating novel optical components.

  • Achieve breakthroughs in future AI enabled AR device system architecture by identifying and solving fundamental problems.

  • Collaborate with optical system designers, simulation engineers, and other research teams to co-develop new display architectures and integrate device-level innovations into system-level solutions.


Meta rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Reality Labs focuses on delivering Meta's roadmap through creating advanced AI enabled AR devices. Come work alongside industry-leading scientists and engineers to create the technology that makes AR devices pervasive and universal. Our scientists have experience designing, modeling, and prototyping advanced display systems. This role is focused on long term research typically aiming for a 5+ year horizon for potential intercept.You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team of optical scientists, simulation engineers, and display architects to advance the state of the art in AI enabled AR devices.
Display Research Scientist Responsibilities:
  • Achieve breakthroughs in future AI enabled AR devices system architecture by identifying and solving fundamental problems to enable immersive AR experiences
  • Research and develop advanced optical elements for future AR display systems, including designing, modeling, and fabricating novel optical components that serve as building blocks for AR display systems
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with optical system designers, simulation engineers, and other research teams to co-develop new display architectures and integrate device-level innovations into system-level solutions
  • Explore emerging optical technologies and evaluate their potential to advance AR display performance, including novel materials, device concepts, and fabrication methods

Minimum Qualifications:
  • PhD degree in optics, physics, electrical engineering, computer science, computer engineering, relevant technical field, and/or equivalent practical experience
  • 3+ years of experience in one or more of the following disciplines: optical design and simulation, optical fabrication, display technologies, computational imaging
  • Experience with AR display systems and understanding of their optical requirements
  • Demonstrated experience to identify core research problems and drive them to solution with initiative

Preferred Qualifications:
  • PhD in optics, photonics, physics, materials science, electrical engineering, or a related field or equivalent practical experiences
  • 6+ years of experience in one or more of the following disciplines: optical design and simulation, optical fabrication, display technologies, computational imaging
  • Experience with holographic optical elements (HOE), volume Bragg gratings (VBG), or photopolymer materials
  • Hands-on experiences on designing and executing optical experiments, working in a lab environment as a core part of the job
  • Experience designing/building near-eye display prototypes (AR/VR)
  • Solid understanding of diffractive optics and holography
  • Computational simulation experience with light including: ray-tracing, Fourier optics, electromagnetic simulations (RCWA, FDTD), computer graphics, etc
  • Experience building complex experimental systems with lasers, interferometry or diffractive imaging systems
  • Experience with various spatial light modulators and display panel technologies
  • Track record of novel research (publications, prototypes, or demonstrated technical impact)
  • Proficiency with AI tools for scientific research, including computing, design and simulation, experiments, and data analysis
  • Experience with advanced nano-photonics technologies including design and fabrication

About Meta:
Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. When Facebook launched in 2004, it changed the way people connect. Apps like Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp further empowered billions around the world. Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual reality to help build the next evolution in social technology. People who choose to build their careers by building with us at Meta help shape a future that will take us beyond what digital connection makes possible today—beyond the constraints of screens, the limits of distance, and even the rules of physics.
Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law. Meta participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations, as required by law. Please note that Meta may leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies in connection with applications for employment.
Meta is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities in our recruiting process. If you need any assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please let us know at accommodations-ext@meta.com.
$154,000/year to $217,000/year + bonus + equity + benefits
Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate, monthly rate, or annual salary only, and do not include bonus, equity or sales incentives, if applicable. In addition to base compensation, Meta offers benefits. Learn more about benefits at Meta.

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