Research Associate, Nanotechnology Process Development and Support

Research Associate, Nanotechnology Process Development and Support

The Cornell NanoScale Science and Technology Facility (CNF) seeks a Research Associate to join its technical team and provide leadership in thin film deposition and etching and associated process integration. This is a hands-on academic research position focused on nanotechnology process development and support in advanced techniques.

The Research Associate will support advanced instrumentation including thin film deposition, etching, resist processing, advanced data preparation, and process flow development. The Research Associate will be responsible for both instruction and user process support. At least 20 hours per week will be spent in the cleanroom, with regular handling of hazardous chemicals. The position will be part of a team consisting of CNF users and CNF tool and user support staff and will report directly to the CNF Director Of Operations.

The successful candidate will have experience working in a multi-user fabrication facility, extensive experience with process integration and other thin film technologies, and experience interacting with users and trainees at a broad range of levels. A customer service demeanor and excellent communication skills will be critical to success in this role.

Responsibilities of this position include:

• Supervising, maintaining, and repairing assigned CNF equipment, predominantly RIE and deposition tools; and assuring the quality and safety of new and existing processes. This position is also responsible for conducting and supporting of remote user processing involving the operation and integration of all CNF equipment. Furthermore, the position involves characterization of thin film deposition and etching equipment and making the information available to staff and users.
• Developing and documenting thin film processes related to nanotechnology, as well as integrating these processes into higher level modules. Optimizing both performance and reproducibility. Maintaining process control charts as necessary. Processes supported will include photolithography, wet and dry etching, and both physical and chemical vapor deposition. Publishing results as appropriate.
• Preparing training materials for correct operation of advanced tools. Providing instruction on use of CNF equipment and supporting users in various applications in the thin film processing area.
• Working with specific CNF users to design and implement appropriate process flows to meet the user's needs. This will include instruction in specific instruments and processes.
• Maintaining specific film processing systems in an operational and productive state. Providing backup to several other facilities as required. Documenting operational issues and repairing as necessary.
• Participating in setting policies and making decisions for Fab protocols and procedures.
• Maintaining an individual record of scholarship, contributing to the scholarly output of CNF through publications and presentations, and mentoring students, staff, and other researchers in techniques within this area of expertise.

Your Qualifications

Successful candidates should demonstrate the following:

• Ph.D. in Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field
• 8+ years of nanotechnology laboratory experience
• Knowledge of all aspects of microfabrication technology, including thin film production, etching, lithography, and analysis
• Ability to work much of each day in a cleanroom
• Demonstrated ability to apply novel imaginative and innovative solutions to design, engineer, modify, and repair equipment
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with a broad range of users
• Demonstrated ability to work safely with hazardous chemicals
• Ability to work calmly in a stressful environment
• Ability to interact effectively as part of a team with users at all levels of processing competence

• Cover letter describing your past research experience and accomplishments and why you are interested in joining CNF
• Complete CV with publications
• Contact information for 3 references