Research Scientist, Optical Imaging Systems R&D
KLAJob Title
Research Scientist, Optical Imaging Systems R&D
Role Summary
Design, analyze, and validate system-level performance for next-generation optical inspection platforms in the RAPID Advanced Technology team. Work across optical, mechanical, electrical, algorithm, and manufacturing teams to translate system requirements into robust, high-performance designs.
Experience Level
Mid-level. Candidates typically have several years of research or engineering experience in optical systems, system performance analysis, or related experimental validation.
Responsibilities
Primary responsibilities include:
- Investigate feasibility of novel system and subsystem concepts.
- Define system requirements, specifications, and verification plans across optical, mechanical, electrical, and control subsystems.
- Develop and maintain detailed error budgets linking subsystem performance to overall system requirements.
- Perform simulation and data analysis to model and validate system performance.
- Collaborate with engineering teams on prototype design, implementation, and performance validation on tools or experimental benches.
- Collect data on tool/bench and analyze results to demonstrate concept value.
- Drive root-cause analysis and corrective actions for system/subsystem performance issues.
- Present technical results and recommendations to project teams and management.
Requirements
Key technical skills and abilities required or strongly preferred.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills applied to complex engineering systems.
- Solid foundation in optical physics and imaging (diffraction, illumination, wave optics) and experience in system performance analysis and error budgeting.
- Hands-on experience with optical system modeling and simulation tools.
- Proficiency in data acquisition, numerical analysis, and visualization (MATLAB, Python, or equivalent).
- Ability to communicate complex technical concepts and trade-offs to cross-functional teams.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within multi-functional teams.
Nice-to-have:
- Experimental experience with optical bench design, alignment, and measurement.
- Prior experience with prototype tool integration and manufacturing validation.
Education Requirements
Minimum qualifications listed by degree level: Doctorate (PhD) with 0 years related work experience; Master’s degree with ~3 years related experience; Bachelor’s degree with ~5 years related experience. Fields referenced include engineering or physical sciences, with specific emphasis on optical physics and optical engineering. The posting ties required work experience to degree level ("related work experience").
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.
