PICs@ICFO Strategic Inititative: Innovation Manager – Photonics Integrated Circuits (PICs) Portfolio

As part of the PICs@ICFO Strategic Initiative, ICFO is currently coordinating the European Chips JU Pilot Line PIXEurope and the Catalan PhotonChip project—two flagship programs aimed at advancing Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs) in Europe.

As part of our expanding efforts, we are reinforcing our leadership in the full PIC value chain—including design, fabrication, advanced packaging, testing, and application development.

We are seeking an Innovation Manager to join its Knowledge and Technology Transfer (KTT) team, focused on the Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs) portfolio at ICFO. The successful candidate will primarily support innovation, coordination, and project management activities within the scope of PICs@ICFO strategic initiative. The position is framed within the PhotonChip project, while also contributing transversally to the wider PICs@ICFO initiative.

The appointee will coordinate ICFO’s contributions within these projects, working closely with internal research teams and external partners, and will report directly to the Senior Innovation Manager of the PICs portfolio. This role is ideal for a motivated professional seeking hands-on experience in European-scale innovation projects at the interface of research, industry, and advanced manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities:

Manage the PhotonChip project, ensuring alignment with project objectives, timelines, and deliverables.

Support the coordination and execution of innovation and technology transfer activities within the Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs) portfolio.

Drive the implementation of project work plans, monitor progress, and support reporting activities at project and portfolio level.

Act as a liaison between ICFO research groups, KTT team members, and external partners involved in the projects.

Organize and participate in project meetings, technical workshops, reviews, and networking events related to photonic chip technologies.

Promote and support the creation of new IP related to the PICs portfolio at ICFO, including new patents and trade secret material in coordination with related KTT members and external parties. Oversee the curation of the PICs IP portfolio at ICFO.

Monitor, document, and help promote project results, including technological developments and innovation outcomes.

Support prospective technological studies, market analysis, and benchmarking related to photonic integrated circuits, manufacturing, and packaging.

Assist in evaluating the innovation and commercial potential of technologies and results emerging from the PICs portfolio.

Contribute to the overall strategy and positioning of ICFO in the European photonic integrated circuits ecosystem, under the guidance of the Senior Innovation Manager.

Work collaboratively as part of the ICFO KTT team, contributing to a dynamic, multidisciplinary, and international working environment.

Aquest contracte està finançat amb el Fons Europeu de Desenvolupament Regional (FEDER) de la Unió Europea, referència EC10-002141, en el marc del Programa del FEDER de Catalunya 2021‐ 2027.

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The ideal candidate will have:

A Master’s degree (or PhD) in Physics, Engineering, Materials Science, Nanotechnology, Photonics, or a related field.

Strong interest in photonic integrated circuits, semiconductor technologies, or advanced manufacturing.

Initial experience or strong motivation to work in project coordination, innovation, or research-driven environments.

Strong organizational, planning, and analytical skills.

Excellent written and oral communication skills.

High attention to detail, responsibility, and an eager-to-learn attitude.

Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Willingness to adapt to a flexible work schedule when required.

Fluency in English; knowledge of Catalan and Spanish are a plus.

Additional Qualities:

Previous experience in European projects or publicly funded R&D initiatives.

Exposure to industry, technology transfer, or semiconductor-related environments.

Experience on IP in deep tech contexts.

Familiarity with innovation ecosystems or pilot-line infrastructures.

What We Offer:

Indefinite contract for scientific and technical activities pursuant to Spanish Law 14/2011, linked to the duration or availability of funds within Catalan PhotonChip project.

Unique opportunity to work at the forefront of European photonics innovation, contributing to large-scale initiatives that shape the future of photonic integrated circuits

Hands-on experience in managing complex, multi-partner projects while developing expertise in technology transfer, innovation management, and industrial collaboration within a world-class research environment

A family allowance may be granted to candidates with dependents, upon request and in accordance with ICFO’s policies.

Suitable candidates are requested to submit:

A presentation letter describing your motivation and interest in photonic technologies and innovation management.

A curriculum vitae, including full contact information.

For formal enquiries regarding the application process, please contact: [email protected]

ICFO is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

For more information about ICFO, visit: https://www.icfo.eu.

28th of February, 2026