Staff Scientist, Cleanroom

Salary Range

$92,000.00 - $

Yale University Cleanroom is an advanced research core facility with an expanding suite of micro/nanofabrication instruments. We are seeking an experienced Staff Scientist with demonstrated expertise in dry etching, thin‑film deposition, and metrology to support cutting‑edge research in quantum science, integrated photonics, superconductivity, and biomedical engineering. The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in teaching, significant hands‑on experience in process development and facility management, and deep knowledge of plasma‑related processes and ultra‑high vacuum systems.

• Lead the development and optimization of dry etching systems, including O₂ asher, RIE, ICP‑RIE, and DRIE.
• Collaborate with staff to manage thin‑film deposition systems such as CVD, LPCVD, PECVD, and ALD.
• Continuously optimize dry etching processes to refine parameters such as etch rates, selectivity, anisotropy, and edge roughness.
• Ensure seamless integration of dry etching and thin‑film processes in complex device architectures.
• Oversee the service and maintenance of advanced instruments in dry etching and thin‑film growth.
• Work with Yale researchers and equipment vendors to update processes and instruments to meet evolving research needs.
• Apply advanced metrology techniques using 3D optical microscopy, SEM, AFM, reflectometry, profilometry, and ellipsometry.
• Create detailed documentation, including SOPs and tool specifications.
• Train and mentor the next generation of scientists and engineers in micro/nanofabrication.

• User Training:
  Refine training methodologies and mentor users of the research core.
• Experiment Support:
  Collaborate closely with researchers and lead complex projects requiring customized solutions within the research core.
• Facility/Instrument Support:
  Lead and manage research projects within the research core.
• Technique Development:
  Contribute to the development of research strategies and evaluate and implement cutting‑edge technologies and methodologies.
• Data Analysis/Interpretation:
  Analyze and interpret complex scientific data, providing critical insights and recommendations.
• Equipment Procurement:
  Assist in the evaluation, acquisition, and maintenance of research core equipment.
• Professional Development:
  Stay updated with emerging research trends and technologies; participate and present in professional development activities and scientific conferences, representing the research core at conferences and events.
• Scientific Participation:
  Collaborate with users on manuscript preparation and grant proposals, as applicable.
• Staff Training & Mentoring:
  Mentor and support junior staff members in their professional growth.
• Leadership:
  Collaborate with senior core leadership on research core‑related initiatives.
• Finance and Administration:
  Support the Core Director with the development and implementation of strategic plans and budgets for the research core.
• Vendor Relations:
  Oversees strategic vendor partnerships, manages negotiations, and evaluates vendor performance for the research core.
• Education and Outreach:
  Develop education and outreach activities within the core, including tours and events.

• Expertise in dry etching (O₂ asher, RIE, ICP‑RIE, DRIE) and thin‑film growth (LPCVD, PECVD, PVD, ALD).
• Hands‑on experience in semiconductor device fabrication, cleanroom facility management, and equipment service and maintenance.
• Hands‑on experience with materials characterization using 3D optical microscopes, SEM, AFM, reflectometers, profilometers, and ellipsometry.
• Proven experience with process analysis, statistical process control (SPC), and design of experiments (DOE) for process optimization and equipment troubleshooting.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.

10+ years hands‑on experience in dry etching and thin‑film growth in the semiconductor industry or in relevant cleanroom facilities.

Master's Degree in a related discipline and five years of related experience or an equivalent combination of skills, education, and…