New Grad: Research Scientist Engineer

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We’re a technology company that leads with our humanity—driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact. At Ciena, this role advances the optical technologies that power the world's most critical networks. As a Research Scientist Engineer on the WaveLogic Science team, this position contributes to solving fundamental challenges in coherent optical communications through deep physics analysis, advanced modeling, and close collaboration with multidisciplinary experts. How you will make an impact: • Investigate complex optical‑communication physics using advanced modeling and numerical analysis. • Build and refine end‑to‑end optical‑system performance models using MATLAB, C, and CUDA. • Develop, test, and iterate on innovative concepts through rigorous simulation cycles. • Collaborate with measurement specialists to validate models on state‑of‑the‑art hardware. • Apply emerging mathematical methods to strengthen system‑level understanding. • Contribute technical insight to cross‑functional DSP, firmware, optical‑systems, and measurement teams. • Influence future roadmap direction through scientific exploration and validated discoveries. The must haves: • Post‑graduate degree (M.Sc. or Ph.D.) in Mathematics, Physics, or Engineering with focus on optical physics, digital signal processing (DSP), or communications theory. • Demonstrated proficiency in MATLAB. • Strong analytical skills in modeling physical systems and interpreting complex data. • Experience developing numerical simulations. • Ability to collaborate effectively across technical disciplines. Nice to haves: • Experience with C, C, CUDA, or Python. • Familiarity with coherent‑optical‑system design principles. • Background in nonlinear‑optical modeling. • Exposure to high‑performance computing or GPU‑accelerated workflows. Pay Range: The annual pay range for this position is $67000-107000 Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available. Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence. Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community to get relevant job alerts straight to your inbox. At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard.  Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination. Ciena is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.