The posting
Job Purpose
The Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) is Singapore’s first University of Applied Learning, offering industry-relevant degree programmes that prepare its graduates to be work- and future-ready professionals. Its mission is to maximise the potential of its learners and to innovate with industry, through an integrated applied learning and research approach, so as to contribute to the economy and society.
The university’s unique pedagogy integrates work and study, embracing authentic learning in a real-world environment through collaborations with key strategic partners. Its focus on applied research with business impact is aimed at helping industry innovate and grow. Targeted to be ready in 2024, SIT’s centralised campus within the larger Punggol Digital District will feature a vibrant learning environment where academia and industry will be tightly integrated with the community.
SIT espouses an applied learning approach and offers degrees with a strong focus on science and technology. Our faculty work closely with industry on translational research and innovation, as well as provide consultancy on solutions to industry challenges. This well-established nexus with industry endows our graduates with deep skills and work-ready training experience – attuning them to the needs and demands of the future economy.
SIT is also establishing strategic live test beds known as ‘Living Labs’ both within and beyond its Punggol campus to support greater experiential learning and strengthen its applied research offerings. The university’s pool of experts works with multi-disciplinary teams to drive the horizontal technology enablers required to support SIT’s strategic translational research.
- The Professional Officers Division (POD) houses a centralised pool of academic staff under the Professional Officers scheme. Professional Officers bring specialised and deep technical expertise developed through extensive industry experience. They provide a critical industry perspective to student learning and applied research, complementing the academic expertise of faculty by translating industry practices and real-world applications into the curriculum.
SIT is expanding its quantum engineering capabilities, building a team of highly skilled technical staff to operate, develop, and innovate with quantum hardware and photonic systems. The Professional Officer in Quantum Engineering & Photonic Systems will play a pivotal role in supporting SIT’s quantum research infrastructure at Punggol Digital District (PDD), including the National Quantum-Safe Network, and quantum sensing testbeds. This role serves as the technical backbone of SIT’s applied quantum engineering activities, with the ability to flex across Quantum Engineering and Quantum Communications. Focus areas include:
- Photonic quantum systems – laser alignment, fibre coupling, and optical component integration
- Quantum hardware bring-up, diagnostics, and calibration
- Cryogenic and vacuum systems operation and maintenance
- RF and microwave electronics for quantum systems
- Quantum lab facility management and safety compliance
Key Responsibilities
- Design, develop, and deliver laboratory sessions and practice-based modules in Quantum Engineering, Photonic Systems, and related areas.
- Operate, maintain, and develop SIT’s quantum hardware infrastructure.
- Lead or co-lead applied research and industry collaboration projects involving quantum hardware, photonic systems, and quantum-safe network integration.
- Perform hands-on hardware bring-up, system diagnostics, calibration, and benchmarking of quantum photonic devices and quantum communication hardware.
- Support the operation and maintenance of cryogenic and vacuum systems, RF/microwave electronics, and precision optical instrumentation used in quantum experiments.
- Contribute to the design, testing, and characterisation of quantum sensing systems.
- Collaborate with faculty and industry partners on applied research projects involving photonic quantum technologies and quantum-safe communications.
- Supervise and mentor students in applied research projects, Capstone Projects, and the Integrated Work Study Programme (IWSP).
- Secure and manage research grants to support applied research in quantum engineering and photonic systems.
- Contribute to the development of CET/PET course content, laboratory materials, and learning resources in quantum engineering and photonics for quantum technologies.
- Manage laboratory facilities, equipment, and technical resources to support academic programmes and applied research activities.
Job Requirements
- Essential:
- PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Photonics, Quantum Engineering, or a closely related field.
- Hands-on laboratory experience with quantum photonic systems, optical setups, and precision instrumentation.
- Proficiency in laboratory instrumentation and data acquisition; programming skills in Python and/or MATLAB for instrument control and data analysis.
- Strong hands-on problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot complex quantum hardware systems.
- Experience:
- Industry experience is strongly preferred — candidates from quantum hardware companies, photonics firms, telecom equipment manufacturers, precision instrumentation companies, semiconductor fabs, or national labs are particularly encouraged to apply.
- Postdoctoral researchers with strong applied or industry-linked research components (e.g., industry-funded projects, hardware deployments, or technology demonstrations) will also be considered.
- Fresh PhD graduates with significant hands-on experimental experience and demonstrated hardware skills may be considered.
- Preferred / Advantageous:
- Experience with cryogenic systems and vacuum technology relevant to quantum hardware (e.g., dilution refrigerators, cryostats, UHV chambers).
- Experience with RF/microwave electronics and control systems for quantum devices.
- Familiarity with photonic integrated circuits (PICs), optical waveguides, or integrated quantum photonic platforms.
