Training Opportunities In-person training – Introduction to PIC Design with Synopsys Photonic Solutions

This in-person course provides a practical introduction to the design of photonic devices and photonic integrated circuits (PICs) using Synopsys Photonic Solutions. Across four days, participants will gain both theoretical grounding and hands-on experience with industry-standard tools, including RSoft Device Tools and OptoCompiler.

Through lectures and guided exercises, the course explores optical waveguides, device and circuit design flows, and simulation techniques. Attendees will design and analyse a range of example components—such as directional couplers, Mach-Zehnder interferometers, and ring resonators—before moving on to full circuit-level design and verification.

Designed for microelectronic engineers new to photonics, the training offers a structured pathway into PIC design, with opportunities to apply concepts directly to practical exercises. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with the skills needed to begin designing and simulating photonic devices and systems using a professional process design kit.

DAY 1

  • Introduction to photonics and design flows
  • Principles of photonic waveguides and optical mode design
  • Exercises on cross-sectional design and simulation in Rsoft Device Tools

DAY 2

  • Electromagnetic propagation simulation theory and exercises
  • Physical effects theory and exercises in the Multi-Physics Utility
  • Theory and exercises on creating a custom cells with the CustomPDK Utility

DAY 3

  • The OptoCompiler environment, Schematic Editor and design exercises
  • PrimeWave circuit simulation, and OpenLight PIC design exercises

DAY 4

  • Mask layout design theory and excersises
  • Circuit verification DRC and LVS theory with exercises

Who Should Attend?

This course is aimed at microelectronic engineers who are new to the field of photonic devices and system design. Attendees should have an understanding of electromagnetism. Familiarity with a Linux environment and semiconductor device physics would also be advantageous but is not required.

Fees

  • Standard Rate: €275.00
  • Discounted Rate for qualifying C-PIC Members: €100.00

Date: 4th November to 7th November 2025

Location: STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Didcot, Oxfordshire, UK