We're looking for a Applied Vision Scientist with a background in display optics to join our Optical Metrology & Vision Science team. You'll apply deep expertise in human visual perception to guide the design, evaluation, and optimization of next-generation display systems and visual experiences across Amazon's device portfolio.
You'll work at the intersection of vision science, computational modeling, display engineering, and user experience, translating psychophysical principles into measurable engineering specifications that ship in products used by millions.
Key job responsibilities Develop and apply computational models of human vision (contrast sensitivity, color appearance, temporal perception, spatial acuity) to inform display hardware and software decisions
Collaborate with display hardware engineers to optimize technology selection, product architecture, and negotiate system-level trade-offs
Design and execute rigorous psychophysical experiments to quantify image and display quality across viewing conditions; collaborating with optical metrology engineers to define and validate the perceptual correlation of objective metrics
Build and maintain lab infrastructure for controlled visual experiments (calibrated displays, spectroradiometers, eye-tracking systems, controlled ambient environments)
Analyze experimental data using advanced statistical methods (signal detection theory, Bayesian inference, mixed-effects models, ANOVA)
Develop and validate perceptual simulation pipelines that predict visual appearance under varying display configurations, ambient conditions, and optical system parameters, enabling rapid virtual prototyping and reducing dependence on physical hardware iterations
Basic Qualifications
- Experience communicating with customers, technical, regulatory, business teams, and management to collect requirements, describe product features, and technical designs
- Bachelors in Vision Science, Visual Neuroscience, Perceptual Psychology, Optical Engineering, Color Science, or closely related field
- Experience developing computational models and simulations of visual perception, including end-to-end display pipeline modeling (source content → display optics → human visual system)
- Demonstrated expertise designing and analyzing psychophysical experiments, with strong verbal and written communication skills to report technical findings and product requirements.
- Strong foundation in color science and colorimetry (CIE systems, color appearance models, chromatic adaptation)
- Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, C++, or equivalent for stimulus generation, data analysis, and computational modeling.
- Experience with image quality models (S-CIELAB, SSIM, HDR-VDP, iCAM), [ and add familiarity with optics terms like MTF, PSF, etc]
- Knowledge of display technologies (e.g. LCD, OLED, E Ink, AR/VR) and their perceptual trade-offs.
Preferred Qualifications
- M.S. or Ph.D. in Vision Science, Visual Neuroscience, Perceptual Psychology, Optical Engineering, Color Science, or closely related field
- 1+ years of applied industry research in human visual perception.
- Experience with display characterization (spectroradiometry, BRDF measurement, temporal response measurement)
- Background in computer graphics and display rendering algorithms, including tone mapping, gamut mapping, subpixel rendering, temporal dithering, and local dimming, with the ability to evaluate their perceptual impact and recommend optimization strategies
- Experience leveraging machine learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow, scikit-learn) for perceptual modeling tasks.
- Proficiency with optical design and simulation tools (e.g., Zemax OpticStudio, LightTools, FRED, TracePro) for modeling display optical paths, stray light analysis, luminance/color uniformity prediction, or evaluating the perceptual impact of optical system design choices.
- Speak, write, and read fluently in English
Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.
Los Angeles County applicants: Job duties for this position include: work safely and cooperatively with other employees, supervisors, and staff; adhere to standards of excellence despite stressful conditions; communicate effectively and respectfully with employees, supervisors, and staff to ensure exceptional customer service; and follow all federal, state, and local laws and Company policies. Criminal history may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship with some of the material job duties of this position. These include the duties and responsibilities listed above, as well as the abilities to adhere to company policies, exercise sound judgment, effectively manage stress and work safely and respectfully with others, exhibit trustworthiness and professionalism, and safeguard business operations and the Company’s reputation. Pursuant to the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
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The base salary range for this position is listed below. Your Amazon package will include sign-on payments and restricted stock units (RSUs). Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, and location. Amazon also offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision, prescription, Basic Life & AD&D insurance and option for Supplemental life plans, EAP, Mental Health Support, Medical Advice Line, Flexible Spending Accounts, Adoption and Surrogacy Reimbursement coverage), 401(k) matching, paid time off, and parental leave. Learn more about our benefits at https://amazon.jobs/en/benefits.
USA, CA, Sunnyvale - 122,600.00 - 185,000.00 USD annually