Research & Applications manager

The Research & Applications manager will provide scientific direction for the development and optimization of Laser Induced Forward Transfer (LIFT) processes. Based full-time at our headquarters in Eindhoven, you will combine hands‑on experimental work with technical leadership, guide complex investigations, and work closely with engineering and application teams to translate research results into reliable, scalable solutions.

Customer and Application Focus :
Translate internal and external application needs into clear research questions, experiments, and measurable success criteria

One Team Keiron :
Work toward shared goals across Research, Systems, Optics, Mechatronics, Software, Applications, and Operations, and actively improve products and processes

Scientific Leadership :
Set the scientific direction for LIFT process development, challenge assumptions, and provide evidence‑based recommendations for technical decisions

Research and Development :
Lead advanced research into LIFT methodologies, laser‑material interaction, transfer mechanisms, and novel process concepts

Experimental Design :
Design and execute rigorous experiments using advanced laser systems, materials, diagnostics, and statistical methods

Data Analysis and Process Optimization :
Analyze complex experimental data, identify causal relationships and trends, and drive parameter optimization and process robustness

Technology Roadmap :
Define research priorities, milestones, risks, and decision criteria in alignment with the product and technology roadmap

Collaboration and Knowledge Transfer :
Mentor colleagues, establish sound research practices, and convert scientific insights into actionable guidance for multidisciplinary teams

Innovation and Intellectual Property :
Monitor relevant scientific developments, generate new concepts, and contribute to patents, publications, and the protection of company know‑how

Documentation, Quality and Safety :
Maintain traceable research records and technical reports, safeguard data quality, and uphold the highest standards for laser and laboratory safety

• A Ph.D. or Master's degree in Physics, Materials Science, Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related discipline
• Demonstrated senior‑level experience in experimental research and technology development in an industrial or applied research environment
• Strong expertise in LIFT, laser‑material interaction, laser processing, microfabrication, or a closely related field
• Advanced capability in experimental design, scientific instrumentation, statistical analysis, and data‑driven decision‑making
• Hands‑on experience with laser systems, optical diagnostics, materials, and laboratory equipment
• A track record of turning research results into repeatable processes, technical specifications, or product‑relevant solutions
• Clear communication, technical leadership, mentoring skills, and the ability to thrive in a dynamic scale‑up environment

Highly valued additional qualifications include:

• Experience in semiconductor, electronics, photonics, precision equipment, or high‑tech manufacturing
• Experience industrializing laboratory processes and working through a high‑tech development V‑cycle
• Proficiency with Python, MATLAB, or comparable tools for experimental control and data analysis
• Experience with optical diagnostics, high‑speed imaging, process monitoring, or metrology
• Experience contributing to patents, scientific publications, or externally funded research projects
• Knowledge of laser safety, laboratory quality systems, and relevant industry standards

Our mission is to achieve a zero‑defect assembly line with unmatched efficiency, transforming electronics manufacturing through LIFT technology. By eliminating the…