Researcher in Optical Satellite Links

At i2CAT, we are pushing the boundaries of the Quantum Emerging Space frontier. We are looking for a visionary Researcher to join our team and lead the technical development of high-impact projects like QUIXOTE (Red Cervera) and LEO-QKD (MISIONES).

Your work won't just be theoretical; you will be designing the hybrid RF-Optical architectures and Free Space Optics (FSO) channels that will serve as the backbone for the next generation of satellite communications and quantum optical transport. If you want to build the infrastructure that connects the Earth with the stars, this is your place.

What we expect from candidates:

• Lead the Hybrid Roadmap: Design and develop Hybrid RF-Optical links specifically tailored for satellite and moving terminals.

• Optimize PAT Systems: Take charge of Pointing, Acquisition, and Tracking (PAT) systems to ensure rock-solid connectivity between dynamic terminals.

• Drive Project Milestones: Execute and deliver the technical requirements for the QUIXOTE Red Cervera project (Use Case T6.2).

• Quantum Synergy: Ensure FSO links are perfectly optimized to carry quantum optical signals and protocols.

• Strategic Collaboration: Manage technical partnerships and contribute your expertise to high-level proposals like Q-ADOPT.

• Investigate & Innovate: Stay at the forefront of Space-segment optical networks to maintain i2CAT’s strategic positioning.

What will you enjoy with us?

• We practice a 4-1 hybrid model (4 days from home, 1 day at the office) to balance face-to-face collaboration with deep-focus remote work. We embrace a hybrid model, but we truly encourage our team to soak up the in-office experience. There’s a unique energy and collaboration in our new space that you simply can't replicate through a screen.
• Enjoy core hours flexibility: as long as you’re online for our team syncs between 10:00 and 15:00, you can design the rest of your day to fit your rhythm. 
• Early-Finish Fridays: We believe in a long weekend. Every Friday throughout the year is an intensive 6.5-hour workday, so you can kick off your personal time by mid-afternoon.
• Intensive summer schedule: To help you enjoy the sun and balance family life during school holidays, we switch to a 7-hour workday from June 22nd to September 4th.
• You get 27 paid vacation days per year, well above the legal minimum, giving you over five full weeks to recharge whenever you need them. You are asked to enjoy at least 12 vacation days during summer.
• We will work so that you have a career plan to promote your growth and development.

Why i2Cat?

The i2CAT Foundation is a non-profit research and innovation center promoting mission-driven R&D activities on advanced Internet architectures, applications, and services. More than 15 years of international research define our expertise in the fields of 5G, IoT, VR, and immersive technologies, cybersecurity, blockchain, AI, and digital social innovation. We partner with companies, public administration, academia, and end-users to leverage this knowledge to meet real social and business challenges.

The highest value of i2CAT is the talent of the people who make up our human team. We enjoy a team of people from more than 13 different nationalities and work every day to create and foster a work environment where we all feel comfortable creating, innovating, and growing.

Want to know more? Visit our webpage! www.i2cat.net