Research Scientist, Optical Systems

Job description

Meta Reality Labs is seeking a Research Scientist, with experience in waveguide fabrication and process development, to advance optical systems research for next-generation augmented reality devices and advanced computing systems. In this role, you will work at the intersection of nanofabrication, materials science, and optical engineering — directly contributing to the hardware that will power Meta's AR glasses and displays.

This is a fundamental research role driving a long-term research roadmap to establish the feasibility of breakthrough optical technologies for future product generations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize techniques and processes for the fabrication of diffraction gratings and light guides on organic substrates
• Perform nanostructure patterning using e-beam lithography, stepper lithography, and nanoimprint lithography techniques
• Develop and characterize dry etch and wet etch processes for precision waveguide fabrication Deposit dielectric thin films using sputtering, atomic layer deposition (ALD), and e-beam evaporation techniques
• Perform metrology and characterization using AFM, SEM, optical profilometry, and spectroscopic methods
• Collaborate with optical designers, materials scientists, and integration teams to translate design requirements into manufacturing processes
• Document, develop standard operating procedures, and contribute to IP generation
• Identify and troubleshoot yield-limiting defects and process excursions
• Support technology transfer from R&D to pilot-scale and high-volume manufacturing

Qualifications

PhD in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or related field Hands-on experience with nanofabrication techniques, including E-beam lithography, optical steppers, and dry/plasma etching Experience with thin-film deposition methods (sputtering, ALD, or e-beam evaporation)

• Proficiency with metrology tools such as AFM, SEM, and optical characterization systems
• Demonstrated experience in developing and optimizing fabrication processes from development through qualification
• 2+ years of relevant industry experience, or Master's degree with 5+ years of relevant industry experience Fundamental understanding of light-matter interaction, photonic nanostructures, and device physics
• Knowledge of optical thin-film design and coating characterization Experience scaling processes from R&D prototyping to pilot production Background in AR/VR optics, holographic optical elements, surface-relief gratings, or photonic devices
• Familiarity with organic/polymer substrates and their processing challenges (thermal budget, CTE mismatch, surface energy).

Experience with nanoimprint lithography (NIL) or roll-to-roll patterning Experience fabricating diffractive optical elements, waveguides, or photonic structures