Principal Researcher – Imaging Physics & Advanced Sensing

Introduction to the job
Within ASML Research, we develop the physical principles and technologies that enable future generations of semiconductor manufacturing. ASML’s product portfolio comprises DUV and EUV lithography scanners as well as metrology and inspection tools hereby using both optical and e-beam technologies.

Introduction to the job
Within ASML Research, we develop the physical principles and technologies that enable future generations of semiconductor manufacturing. ASML’s product portfolio comprises DUV and EUV lithography scanners as well as metrology and inspection tools hereby using both optical and e-beam technologies.

This position focuses on imaging physics, with an emphasis on developing new imaging techniques using photons and/or electrons. The work spans fundamental physics, modeling, and feasibility studies with relevance for future metrology, inspection and sensing applications. For most number of ASML tools, imaging physics comprises often co-design of hardware together with computational imaging solutions. The latter include, amongst others digital post-processing, and tailoring of imaging concepts for the specific information aimed for.

A proper understanding of the processes behind the formation of an image is instrumental to the inverse problem typical of metrology, where inference is applied to obtain the best estimate of a parameter of interest based on the available data and prior knowledge. In this sense, expertise on imaging physics is expected to contribute to the general understanding of signal formation for inverse metrology.

Job mission
In this role, you will operate as a deep subject‑matter expert and strong individual contributor, developing new concepts from first principles and translating them into validated approaches. You will act as a content leader in imaging physics, ensuring technical quality and consistency while integrating expertise across teams and competences.

Your impact extends beyond your own work by shaping research direction and connecting neighboring projects and domains.

Key Responsibilities

Define and drive research topics in imaging physics, aligned with metrology, inspection and sensing needs.

Develop novel imaging techniques using optical and/or electron-based approaches.

Build and apply physics‑based models and simulations, including:

Light or electron propagation

Interaction with materials and structures through diffraction and scattering models

Image formation under various conditions of coherence

Detection mechanisms

Retrieval solutions of the key-information of interest

Perform hands‑on research, from concept definition through feasibility studies to proof‑of‑concept.

Develop deep understanding of imaging limits, including resolution, contrast, coherence properties, sensitivity, and any disturbances like deformation and noise.

Act as a content leader, ensuring physical correctness, consistency, and reuse of models across projects.

Contribute across projects by reviewing, guiding, and aligning technical work across multidisciplanary teams.

Actively contributing to the competence of computational imaging and parameter inference

Being active in tutoring of junior colleagues and the supervision of students and interns

Integrate knowledge across competence areas and neighboring projects, ensuring coherent solutions and effective knowledge transfer.

This position requires access to controlled technology, as defined in the United States Export Administration Regulations (15 C.F.R. 730, et seq.). Qualified candidates must be legally authorized to access such controlled technology prior to beginning work. Business demands may require ASML to proceed with candidates who are immediately eligible to access controlled technology.

Your Profile
Education

PhD or equivalent experience in physics, optics, electron microscopy, or a closely related field.

Experience

Deep expertise in imaging physics, including optical or electron‑based imaging systems.

Strong experience with physics‑based modeling and simulation of imaging systems.

Experience in leading groups or working projects with more than 10 people and at least 10 years of practical experience

Proven track record…