Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) seeks to fill a staff Research Physicist position to work on low temperature plasmas and their applications. The main focus is to conduct experimental research on plasma processing for semiconductor nanofabrication and to develop and apply advanced plasma diagnostics such as laser-based diagnostics, for characterization of processing plasmas and plasma-material interactions. The near-term focus is to conduct this research on industrial processing reactors at experimental facilities of PPPL industrial collaborators. The selected candidate will be hired to work at one of such facilities in the Silicon Valey, CA.
Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) seeks to fill a staff Research Physicist position to work on low temperature plasmas and their applications. The main focus is to conduct experimental research on plasma processing in support of ML/AI development efforts for semiconductor nanofabrication. The candidate will be responsible for conducting comprehensive experimental characterization of industrial plasma processing reactors to understand and enhance the science of plasma-material interactions, by developing and implementing non-intrusive novel optical diagnostics of low temperature plasmas for industrial applications and collaborating with ML/AI experts, theorists and experimentalists from PPPL and industry.
The selected candidate will join PPPL’s team of experts in low-temperature plasmas and contribute to ongoing research in plasma science with applications to microelectronics, quantum information science, sustainable manufacturing and materials science. Applicants should have extensive experience with non-intrusive temporally and spatially resolved optical diagnostics of plasmas including, but not limited to laser-based spectroscopic and scattering techniques. A strong background and hands-on experience in experimental techniques for generating and characterizing low-temperature plasmas, including RF and pulsed discharges is essential. Candidates must also possess deep expertise in the operation, troubleshooting, and detailed understanding of industrial plasma reactors used in semiconductor processing. Experience in the development and application of in-situ optical diagnostics within such industrial systems is highly desirable. The candidate is expected to collaborate closely with industrial partners to understand and enhance the science of plasma-material interactions in an industrial setting.
A U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is tackling the world’s toughest science and technology challenges using plasma, the fourth state of matter. With more than 70 years of history, PPPL is a leader in the science and engineering behind the development of fusion energy, a potentially limitless energy source. PPPL is also using its expertise to advance research in the areas of microelectronics, quantum sensors and devices, and sustainability sciences. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to contribute to our mission and vision. Come join us!
Responsibilities
Core Duties:
We are looking for a highly motivated scientist with knowledge and practical experience in the development and applications of plasma diagnostics to plasma processing reactors for semiconductor nanofabrication with application to microelectronics. The focus of the diagnostic research is on a variety of laser-based diagnostics such as laser-induced fluorescence (LIF), two-photon absorption LIF (TaLIF), laser Thomson scattering, cavity ringdown spectroscopy and their applications. The focus of experimental research is on characterization of low temperature plasma, plasma-chemistry and plasma-material interactions in processing reactors. In addition, our strong preference is to candidates with demonstrated hands-on experience in operation and maintenance of RF plasma processing reactors and reactor chambers. Applicants should have demonstrated skills in analyzing experimental data from optical diagnostics. An understanding of machine learning methods, AI and control with application to processing reactors is also desirable.
In the near-term, the selected candidate will work with an industrial collaborator of PPPL. The place of work will be at the facility of this collaborator, in the Silicon Valley, CA.
- Comprehensive experimental characterization of low temperature plasmas: 40%.
- Development and implementation of control methods: 15%.
- Development and implementation of diagnostics: 35%.
- Assisting in proposal writing: 5%.
- Maintaining the lab safety and housekeeping: 5%.
Qualifications
Education and Experience:
- Applicants should possess a Ph.D. in engineering or plasma physics and at least 3 years of experience at the post-doctoral level. The position is at the RM2 level.
Knowledge, Skills And Abilities
- Fundamental knowledge and hands on experience with optical hardware including spectrometers, pulsed laser sources (Nd:YAG, Dye lasers, OPO lasers), and beam alignment, and imaging including CCD and iCCD cameras, optical filters is required.
- Expertise in low temperature plasma science.
- Understanding and experience with plasma sources including RF plasma sources, dielectric barrier discharges, plasma jets, plasma-liquid interactions.
- Hands on experience with basic lab equipment including spectrometers, oscilloscopes, pulsed power hardware and data processing using programming software such as Matlab is required.
- Hands on experience with vacuum systems including operation of vacuum pumps, both mechanical fore vacuum and turbomolecular pumps, vacuum valves, gauges and flanges is required.
- Experience in development and application of optical diagnostics for in-situ detection of by-products in a plasma processing reactor.
- Experience with operation and maintenance of industrial plasma reactors for semiconductor fabrications.
Working Conditions
- Need to pass training for laser safety training and eye exam to be able to operate the laser of class III and IV.
Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.
If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.
The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.
Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.
Standard Weekly Hours
40.00
Eligible for Overtime
No
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Probationary Period
180 days
Essential Services Personnel (see Policy For Detail)
No
Physical Capacity Exam Required
No
Valid Driver's License Required
No
Salary Range
$109,000 to $174,200
