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Research Scientist

KLA
June 10, 2026
Full-time
On-site
Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
$105,900 - $180,000 USD yearly
Device Engineering Jobs, Level - Mid-Career

Job Title

Research Scientist

Role Summary

The Research Scientist will work in the Office of the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) on experimental and simulation research in optics and optoelectronics for semiconductor manufacturing. The role focuses on hands-on development of test benches, device and materials characterization, and maturing technologies for transfer to product engineering teams.

Experience Level

Mid-level. Suitable for candidates with significant research experience; see Education Requirements for degree expectations.

Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities include experimental development, modeling, and cross-functional collaboration.

  • Design, build, and operate optical and electronic test benches to probe light–matter interactions.
  • Develop and run optical/optoelectronic device simulations (e.g., Zemax, COMSOL, Lumerical).
  • Design, build, and operate vacuum-based experimental equipment and procedures.
  • Perform materials characterization and spectroscopic measurements; analyze and report data.
  • Document results, write technical reports, and present findings to engineering and product teams.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define technology roadmaps and transition R&D into products.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and professional attributes.

  • Background in semiconductor physics, optics, light–matter interactions, and semiconductor processing.
  • Hands-on experience designing, building, and operating optical/optoelectronic test benches.
  • Proficiency with simulation tools for device physics and optics (e.g., Zemax, COMSOL, Lumerical).
  • Experience operating vacuum-based equipment and following laboratory best practices.
  • Experience with materials characterization and spectroscopic methods.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and clear written and verbal technical communication.

Education Requirements

Ph.D. in Physics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field focused on optoelectronic devices.


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.

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Date Posted: 2026-06-11