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Postdoctoral Optics Photonics Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Postdoctoral Optics Photonics information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a postdoctoral optics photonics researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Optics Photonics researcher, you need a Ph.D. in physics, optics, or a related field, with strong expertise in experimental and theoretical photonics. Familiarity with simulation software (e.g., COMSOL, Zemax), laboratory instrumentation, and advanced optical measurement techniques is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective collaboration and communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for advancing research, publishing results, and contributing to multidisciplinary teams in a rapidly evolving scientific field.

What is a postdoctoral optics photonics position?

Postdoctoral Optics Photonics positions are research-focused roles typically held by individuals who have recently earned their Ph.D. in physics, optical engineering, or related fields. These positions involve conducting advanced research in optics and photonics, including areas like laser technology, imaging, optical communications, and quantum optics. Postdoctoral researchers work in academic, government, or industrial labs, collaborating with principal investigators and other scientists to advance knowledge and technology in the field. Their work often results in publications, patents, and contributions to cutting-edge innovations.

What types of collaborative projects can a postdoctoral optics photonics researcher expect to be involved in?

As a Postdoctoral Optics Photonics researcher, you will often collaborate on interdisciplinary projects with physicists, engineers, and material scientists. These collaborations might include developing advanced imaging systems, working on laser applications, or designing optical sensors. You can expect to participate in regular team meetings, contribute to shared experimental setups, and co-author publications or grant proposals. Such collaborations not only broaden your technical expertise but also help you build a strong professional network, which is valuable for future career advancement.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Optics Photonics vs Postdoctoral Physics?

AspectPostdoctoral Optics PhotonicsPostdoctoral Physics
Required CredentialsPh.D. in Optics, Photonics, or related fieldPh.D. in Physics or related discipline
Work EnvironmentResearch labs focused on optics and photonics technologiesVaried, including research labs, academia, and industry
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, photonics companies, research institutesUniversities, research institutions, industry

Postdoctoral Optics Photonics and Postdoctoral Physics roles often require similar advanced degrees and research experience. However, Postdoctoral Optics Photonics focuses specifically on optical and photonic technologies, while Postdoctoral Physics covers a broader range of physics topics. Both roles are research-intensive and commonly found in academic and industry settings, but the specialization in optics and photonics makes Postdoctoral Optics Photonics more targeted toward optical applications and innovations.

What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Optics Photonics jobs in Indiana? For Postdoctoral Optics Photonics jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Postdoctoral Optics Photonics jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Postdoctoral Optics Photonics jobs in Indiana are:
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Optics Photonics job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Postdoctoral Fellow in Bio-Photonics and optical imaging

Indiana University Academic Positions

Bloomington, IN

Full-time

Re-posted 14 hours ago


Job description

Position Details
Title Postdoctoral Fellow in Bio-Photonics and optical imaging Appointment Status Non-Tenure Track Department IU Bloomington Intelligent Systems Engineering Location Bloomington Position Summary
Indiana University, Bloomington
Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering
Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering
Postdoctoral Fellow in Bio-Photonics and optical imaging (Leung Research Group)
The Leung Research Group (https://sites.google.com/view/LeungGroup) in the Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering at the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering in Bloomington, Indiana, USA, invites applications for a postdoctoral position focused on developing cutting-edge optical imaging systems using advanced light manipulation techniques for biomedical applications. Experimental expertise in advanced optical system design, structured beam generation, and characterization methods will be advantageous. Familiarity with laser pulse shaping, spatiotemporal vortex (STOV) beams and orbital angular momentum, is advantageous. The ideal start date is December 1, 2025 (negotiable).
The Leung Research Group seeks to develop novel optical methodologies in which the numerous degrees of freedom of light are fully leveraged to enhance imaging performances beyond the limits of classical approaches. Our research group is forging new frontiers in optical metrology and biomedical imaging through synergistic work performed by different teams in the lab. Our research projects combine and elevate state-of-the-art technologies including but not limited to optics, microscopy imaging, systems engineering, and biophotonics.
We are committed to providing all members of our group a collaborative, supportive, and motivating academic environment with abundant opportunities to participate in interdisciplinary active collaborations and teamwork to expand their knowledge and skillset and to exercise creativity and innovation in their research work. Your successful career development is important to us, and we will invest in the development of your leadership, mentorship, and scientific writing/publication skills, presentation skills, and grants writing skills.
Indiana University is an equal opportunity employer and provider of ADA services, and prohibits discrimination in hiring. See Indiana University Notice of Non-Discrimination here which includes contact information.
Appointment Type: Twelve-month full-time non-tenure track appointment with potential to be extended annually, subject to satisfactory performance and funding; The position is currently funded for two years.
Salary: We offer a competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus generous benefits.
Links to additional information which may be of interest:
https://luddy.indiana.edu/
https://engineering.indiana.edu/about/index.html
https://bloomington.iu.edu/index.html
https://www.visitbloomington.com/

Basic Qualifications
  • Ph.D. in one of the following or another related area is required before the position start date: physics, optical sciences, optical engineering, photonics, quantum science, biomedical engineering 
  • Ph.D. candidates about to graduate are also welcome to apply.
  • Hands-on experimental experience with developing optical systems and the use of lasers.
  • Proficiency in data processing software e.g., Python, Matlab.
  • Exhibits excellent professionalism and work ethics, initiative and self-motivation.
  • Strong ability to problem-solve and think critically.
  • Possesses good written and oral communication skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a collaborative, cross-disciplinary, fast-paced working environment.
Department Contact for Questions
Questions may be sent to: Dr. Hui Min Leung (huileung@iu.edu)
Additional Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications: 
Experiences and/or knowledge in one or more of the following will be an advantage:
  • Generation, manipulation, and characterization of spatio-temporal structured light and/or wave packets
  • Fourier domain imaging concepts
  • Use of pulsed lasers
  • Imaging science and optical microscopy
  • Basic proficiency in Zemax or equivalent
Salary and Rank Special Instructions
Applications received by October 1, 2025 will receive full consideration. However, we will continue accepting applications until the position is filled. Interested candidates should review the application requirements and apply online at:
https://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/30334
Application Materials:
1. Cover letter describing your research interests and how your background and expertise align with this position.
2. CV, including your contact information and publication list
3. Email addresses for three professional references
For Best Consideration Date 10/01/2025 Expected Start Date 12/01/2025 Posting Number IU-101305-2025