Research Scientist
KLAJob Title
Research Scientist
Role Summary
Join the SPTS Advanced Development team to develop plasma etch and deposition technologies for semiconductor, photonics and advanced packaging applications. The role combines concept and hardware development, simulation-led process design, hands-on process and tool testing, and customer-facing technical support.
Experience Level
Senior-level. The role expects substantial technical experience in process development and tool-based experimentation; prior postdoctoral or industrial experience preferred.
Responsibilities
The primary responsibilities focus on developing and validating etch/deposition processes and related hardware; work involves modelling, experiments, analysis and documentation.
- Generate new hardware and process concepts for plasma etch and deposition technologies.
- Use commercial simulation packages to model process mechanisms and support development.
- Perform hands-on process development, tool testing and device-level integration work.
- Analyse experimental results, refine processes, and contribute to IP submissions.
- Advise end users on system performance and integration challenges for 3D advanced packaging, photonics and specialty applications.
- Prepare technical reports, notes, and present data at technical reviews and seminars.
- Work autonomously and collaboratively within a small development team; limited international travel may be required.
Requirements
Must-have technical skills, tools and professional skills required for success in the role.
- Hands-on experience with plasma etch, CVD, PVD or ALD process equipment (preferred but not strictly required for strong candidates).
- Practical metrology skills, including SEM operation and interpretation.
- Familiarity with end-point detection techniques.
- Experience with process modelling tools such as COMSOL, ANSYS, Quantamol or equivalent; experience with HPEM plasma modelling is advantageous.
- Experience applying DOE methodologies and systematic experimental design.
- Strong analytical skills, clear written and verbal communication, and the ability to work both independently and in small teams.
- Ideally have prior postdoctoral or relevant industrial R&D experience.
Education Requirements
PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Semiconductor Technology, Electrical Engineering or a closely related discipline is required.
About the Company
Company: KLA
Headquarters: Chennai, India
KLA is a global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing industry. The company enables the production of electronic devices by inventing systems and solutions for manufacturing integrated circuits, wafers, and displays. With over 40 years of experience, KLA invests heavily in innovation and R&D to support advanced chip design and manufacturing process optimization, collaborating with top technology providers to deliver future electronic devices.
