Prisma-Photonics is a rapidly growing startup company, developing the next-generation smart-infrastructure solution based on novel fiber-sensing technology (smart roads, smart cities, perimeters, and grid monitoring, etc.). The company offers an award-winning disruptive solution; a “sensor free” approach to smart infrastructure. The company is VC backed and in the revenues stage. Combining pioneering technology in optical fiber sensing with state-of-the-art machine learning, we help prevent environmental disasters, protect human lives, and keep critical energy and transportation backbones running smoothly. The Chief Scientist at Prisma is the company’s top expert on physics, fiber sensing, and scientific innovation . This role shapes Prisma’s core technology—from hardware and sensing architecture to research leadership and IP strategy. It combines deep technical expertise in DAS with hands-on leadership across science, engineering, and innovation. The Physics Team Leader will report to the VP R&D.
What You’ll Do:
* Own and lead the development of our next-generation fiber-sensing systems , driving innovation from concept through production. Manage and grow a multidisciplinary team of physicists , providing technical mentorship and day-to-day leadership.
* Oversee cross-functional hardware development , including: optical system design and
* integration, electrical board design, thermal design of enclosures and components.
* Serve as Prisma’s subject matter expert in fiber sensing in general and DAS in particular and in geophysics and seismology
* Lead scientific research and collaboration , including academic partnerships and publications in those fields.
* Lead Prisma’s IP and patent strategy and build its IP Portfolio , including drafting and managing patent applications.
* Lead system-level architecture decisions, integrating optical, mechanical, electrical, and computational elements to deliver reliable, high-performance systems. Collaborate closely with algorithm, software, and field engineering teams to ensure smooth integration and deployment of hardware in real-world environments.
What You Bring::
* Advanced degree (Ph.D. – strong preference) in Experimental Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
* 5+ years of hands-on experience in lasers, optical communication, fiber lasers, or complex electro-optical systems.
* Proven experience in leading high-performing technical team and delivering successful hardware projects to production.
* Deep understanding of physical system design and integration, especially optical systems.
* Track record of delivering production-grade hardware, including enclosures and computing components.
* Strong interdisciplinary mindset—able to navigate physics, engineering, and software.
* Creative, problem solver with a practical, execution-oriented approach.
* Excellent communication skills.
* Passion for working in a fast-paced, collaborative startup environment.
Requirements: None
This position is open to all candidates.