**SBT is the exclusive retained search firm for this confidential opportunity**
Description
Our client has spent three years deeply engrained in R&D - conceiving, modeling, & refining a technology platform that has the potential to transform the performance of neural network computing.
Led by two pioneering researchers and entrepreneurs in the field of photonics and materials science, they're leveraging new physics to create spatial light modulators with breakthrough speed, density, and power-efficiency to reimagine how LLMs and other high-performance AI workloads can be deployed in modern data centers.
At this stage, they are seeking an experienced technical leader to drive their product development, foster relationships with technical leaders and key partners, and refine their technology roadmap to help shepherd the company to its next phase of growth.
If you are seeking a role where you can make evolutionary improvements to existing products, do NOT apply. If you are ready to bet big on yourself and seize an opportunity to make a revolutionary, once-in-a-generation type of impact on computing, then we want to hear from you!
Responsibilities
Technical Leadership
Cooperatively develop and execute the company's technical vision and strategy
Lead the development of new products and technologies, including photonics-based compute architectures and semiconductor designs
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure technical alignment and integration with business goals
Research and Development
Oversee the research and development of new technologies and products, including photonics-based compute architectures, semiconductor designs, and related software and firmware
Manage the development of prototypes, proof-of-concepts, and pilot products
Identify and prioritize research areas and initiatives to drive innovation and growth
Intellectual Property and Patent Strategy
Develop and implement the company's intellectual property (IP) strategy, including patent development, licensing, and enforcement
Oversee the development and maintenance of the company's patent portfolio
Collaborate with legal and business teams to ensure that IP strategy aligns with business goals
Required Experience
Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, or a related field with significant industry experience
15+ years of experience in the semiconductor industry, with a focus on photonics-based technologies such as optical interconnect, photonics-based compute, photonics-based quantum computing, etc
Strong understanding of semiconductor physics, materials science, and device design
Experience in leading technical teams, including engineering, research, and development
Familiarity with the development of new products and technologies, including photonics-based compute architectures and semiconductor designs
Experience with technology development, including proof-of-concept, prototyping, and pilot production with demonstrated experience bringing multiple products successfully to high volume production.
Familiarity with advanced compute architectures, including CPU, GPU, and AI/ML accelerators
Knowledge of software development, including programming languages such as C++, Python, and Verilog
Understanding of system-on-chip (SoC) design, including digital and analog design
Strong leadership and management skills, with experience in leading technical teams
Excellent communication and presentation skills, with ability to communicate complex technical information to non-technical audiences