Master Student — AI modelling for Metasurface-based PI-LCOS & WSS

Huawei Heisenberg Research Center (Munich) is responsible for advanced technology research, architectural development, design and strategic engineering of our products.

The Optical Technology Laboratory in Munich researches and develops signal processing, components, systems, and optical switching for fixed access, data center networks, metro and long-haul optical networks. The department engages in local research and collaborates with academic and industrial partners from the European ecosystem.

Join us as a

Master Student — AI modelling for Metasurface-based PI-LCOS & WSS (m/f/d)

Your mission

We are seeking a Master student to work on AI-driven modeling and optimization of metasurface-based Pixelated Isotropic LCOS (PI-LCOS) devices and Wavelength Selective Switch (WSS) systems. The project has two complementary tracks:

1. PI-LCOS metasurface optimization — Use AI techniques to optimize metasurface shapes and topologies to reduce insertion loss and achieve low polarization-dependent loss (PDL) in metasurface-based PI-LCOS devices.

2. WSS modeling & optimization — Develop AI-assisted models for WSS systems based on conventional LCOS technology, focusing on crosstalk suppression, insertion loss reduction, and system-level performance improvement.

• Develop AI/ML surrogate models and inverse design frameworks for metasurface unit-cell optimization targeting PI-LCOS devices, with objectives including insertion loss minimization and PDL reduction.

• Build and refine WSS system-level models (optical path, LCOS switching engine, port architecture) for conventional LCOS-based WSS, evaluating insertion loss, crosstalk, passband shape, and PDL

• Investigate WSS crosstalk suppression strategies through pixel layout design, phase/amplitude apodization, and AI-driven optimization.

• Perform electromagnetic simulations (FDTD, RCWA, FEM) of metasurface structures and validate AI predictions against full-wave results.

• Optimize metasurface geometry parameters (pillar shape, lattice, orientation, material) to minimize insertion loss and PDL while meeting phase/amplitude/polarization requirements.

• Apply AI/ML methods to the LCOS-based WSS design loop for multi-objective optimization across system-level performance metrics.

Your areas of expertise

• Enrolled in a Master's program in EE, Photonics, Applied Physics, Optical Engineering, CS, or related field.

• Deep learning fundamentals; experience with PyTorch or TensorFlow

• Familiarity with one or more: inverse design, physics-informed neural networks (PINNs), reinforcement learning

• Understanding of metasurface operating principles (phase/amplitude/polarization control via subwavelength structures).

• Knowledge of unit-cell design, lattice types, phase-gradient concepts, and fabrication constraints

• Foundational knowledge of physical optics, liquid crystal optics, and LCOS device operation (both conventional and pixelated isotropic modes).

• Understanding of WSS architecture and key metrics: insertion loss, crosstalk, bandwidth, PDL, port count.

• Experience with LC device modeling (Frank-Oseen theory, director simulation).

• Knowledge of DWDM systems and telecom optical component design

• Prior work at the intersection of AI and photonics/optics

• Ability to read technical literature independently.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research-oriented environment

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Your rewards of working here

• Our culture is characterized by innovative power and team spirit as well as the intensive exchange of knowledge and experience within our global network.

• We offer healthy meals ranging from traditional Chinese to western delicacies in our famous company canteen.

• To keep your development ongoing, you will find a broad range of training opportunities. Many online and face-to-face training programs incl. language courses in German and Mandarin.

• Our diverse and welcoming environment is shaped by different backgrounds and around 40 individual nationalities.

• Self-responsible work in a competent, motivated and constantly growing team.

Please send your application and CV (incl. cover letter and reference letters) in English.

Huawei is a leading global information and communications technology (ICT) solutions provider. Our ICT solutions, products and services are used in more than 170 countries and regions, serving over one-third of the world's population. With 208,000 employees, Huawei is committed to develop the future information society and build a Better Connected World.