Staff Scientist,Cleanroom Job Norwalk area,Connecticut USA,Research/Development

Salary Range

$92,000.00 - $

Overview

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. Reporting to the Cleanroom Director, the Staff Scientist will work closely with talented Yale researchers to support cutting‑edge research such as quantum science, integrated photonics, superconductivity, and biomedical engineering.

The ideal candidate should have a strong interest in teaching, with significant hands‑on experience in process development and facility management. A deep knowledge in plasma‑related processes and ultra‑high vacuum (UHV) systems is preferred.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the development and optimization of dry etching systems, including O₂ asher, RIE, ICP‑RIE, and DRIE.

Collaborate with other staff members to manage thin film deposition systems such as CVD, LPCVD, PECVD and ALD.

Continuously optimize dry etching process 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 other staff, 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.

Principal Responsibilities

User Training:
Refine training methodologies and train and mentor users of the research core, providing guidance and expertise.

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 within the research core 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 and Mentoring:
Mentor and support junior staff members in their professional growth.

Leadership:
Collaborate with senior core leadership on research core‑related initiatives.

Finance and Admin:
Support the Core Director with development and implementation of strategic plans and budgets for the research core.

Vendor Relations:
Oversight of strategic vendor partnerships, manage negotiations and evaluate vendor performance for the research core.

Education and Outreach:
Develop education and outreach activities within the core, including tours, events, etc.

Required

Skills and Abilities

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.

Preferred Education, Experience and Skills

10+ years hands‑on experience in dry etching and thin film growth in the semiconductor…

Staff Scientist, Cleanroom