Italy
- Commitment & contract: 1 year - _Full time position Initial appointment within an IIT Technology Transfer - funded project, with the objective of transitioning into a leadership role within a newly formed startup.
- Location: CNST-IIT, Milano_ **_Step into a world of endless possibilities, together let’s leave something for the future!_** At IIT, we are committed to advancing human-centered Science and Technology to address the most urgent societal challenges of our era. We foster excellence in both fundamental and applied research, spanning fields such as neuroscience and cognition, humanoid technologies and robotics, artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, and material sciences, offering a truly interdisciplinary scientific experience. Our approach integrates cutting-edge tools and technology, empowering researchers to push the limits of knowledge and innovation. With us, your curiosity will know no bounds. We are dedicated to providing equal employment opportunities and fostering diversity in all its forms, creating an inclusive environment. We value the unique experiences, knowledge, backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives of our people. By embracing diversity, we believe science can achieve its fullest potential. **THE ROLE** We are seeking a **senior expert in optics and photonics** with strong leadership potential and an entrepreneurial mindset to join **Privalens**, an IIT Technology Transfer initiative developing **AI-engineered optical systems for privacy-preserving imaging**. SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL CONTEXT Privalens introduces a new paradigm in imaging**:hardware-level optical encryption**,



embedded directly in the camera lens, designed using AI. The technology enables privacy-by-design imaging systems compliant with GDPR, eliminating the generation of raw, unprotected visual data at capture. The project aims to advance the technology from **TRL 4 to TRL 6**, preparing for industrial validation and startup creation. The initiative is promoted by **Dr. Antonio Ambrosio**, PI of the Vectorial Nano-Imaging Unit at IIT, with contributions from experts in AI and computer vision. **MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES**: - Within the multidisciplinary Privalens team, the postdoctoral researcher will
- Contribute to the **design, optimization, and simulation** of advanced optical and imaging systems, including AI-designed optical elements.
- Participate in **experimental validation, calibration, and performance evaluation** of optical prototypes
- Support the development of **proof-of-concept and deployable prototypes** aligned with TRL advancement goals.
- Collaborate with AI, computer vision, and system engineers to integrate optical components into full imaging systems;
- Contribute to **technical documentation, publications, and patent-related activities.**:



- Gradually engage with **technology transfer and industrial interaction**, gaining exposure to: - requirements from industrial partners and early adopters
- system scalability and manufacturability considerations
- the early stages of startup definition (optional and interest-driven). **ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS**
- PhD in **Optics, Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering**, or closely related disciplines
- Proven expertise in **optical system design**, imaging systems, or nanophotonic/metasurface technologies
- Strong publication record and demonstrated scientific leadership
- Experience translating research results into **prototypes or applied technologies**: - Excellent command of spoken and written English **ADDITIONAL SKILLS**
- Experience with **computational optics**, inverse design, or AI-assisted optical design
- Familiarity with **optical fabrication, calibration, and system integration**: - Prior exposure to **technology transfer, startups, or industrial collaboration**: - Strong leadership qualities, autonomy, and decision-making capability
- Entrepreneurial mindset with interest in **company building and fundraising**: - Ability to operate effectively in a **highly interdisciplinary and international environment** CAREER PATH & OPPORTUNITY FUNDING & PROJECT CONTEXT This position is financed through the **IIT Technology Transfer Fund** within the **Privalens project**, dedicated to preparing the conditions for startup creation within a 12-month horizon. **COMPENSATION PACKAGE**
- Application’s deadline: February 28, 2026_

📌 Optical Systems Lead (Milano)
🏢 Istituto Italiano Di Tecnologia
📍 Milano