PostDoc or Senior Research Engineer – Oxide thin films for dielectric, piezoelectric and optical applications (all genders) // Job-ID: 197-1

Silicon Austria Labs.com

61k - 61k EUR/year

Office

VILLACH

Full Time

As part of the European Chips Act, Silicon Austria Labs (SAL) is driving innovation in quantum and semiconductor technologies through its Quantum Pilot Lines. Join our interdisciplinary teams at the interface of design and fabrication and enjoy Villach’s exceptional quality of life in the heart of the Austrian Alps. Be part of something bigger. Be part of Silicon Austria Labs.
This opportunity is a temporary position with an expected duration of 3 years, aligned with the timeframe of the pilot line project. Continuation in a permanent role may be considered thereafter, subject to strong performance and and future funding opportunities.

The responsibilities for this role include:

Development of physical vapor deposition processes (magnetron sputtering, pulsed laaser deposition) for piezo/ferroelectric, dielectric and optical oxides (e.g. transparent conductive oxides, TCOs) with state-of-the-art cluster tools
Design of layer stack and process development for seed/buffer layers and metallic electrodes
Thin film structural and functional characterization (incl. XRD, ellipsometry, AFM, electrical and piezoelectric characterization)
Solving thin-film deposition issues related to material selection and process parameters and take corrective actions
Design and execution of DOEs, advanced experiments, data analyses, and process improvements
Performing data analysis using analytical calculations, modelling, and standard statistical methods
Generating Standard Operating Procedures, recipes, internal IP disclosures and patent applications
Working in advanced ISO5 clean room facility
Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams within Silicon Austria Labs by performing state-of-the-art investigations on materials and thin-film technology for diverse applications
Contribution to project management by assisting PMs in preparation of dissemination and reports
Participation to scientific communication and scientific reporting of research results
Proactivity in identifying scientifically interesting results
Contribution to scientific publications and participation to scientific dissemination in general
Contribution (also active) to acquisition of funding for scientific research
PhD (or MSc with equivalent relevant work experience) in materials science, chemical engineering, physics, chemistry, or related fields with a focus on thin film technology (preferably oxides)
Relevant publication or patent records in thin film development
Career stage-appropriate track record of scientific dissemination
Experience working with industrially relevant equipment involving thin film deposition (PVD, e.g. magnetron sputtering, pulsed laser deposition) and materials characterization
Know-how on piezo/ferroelectric, dielectric, optical thin films and their applications
Expertise on measurement and analysis of thin-films by: SEM, EDX, XRD, Ellipsometry, piezo-characterization etc.
Knowledge in semiconductor technologies and practical and professional experience in related cleanroom microfabrication processes is a plus
Interest in applied research and solving industrial relevant challenges
Autonomous, with self-initiative, well organized and enjoying working in a dynamic and multicultural team
Oral and written communication skills in English, command of German language is a plus
Professional communication skills with industry partners
Experience in project management is a plus
Willingness to relocate to Villach, Austria
Diverse research activities with many technical challenges.
State-of-the-art laboratory facilities and equipment.
Location in the heart of Europe in Austria – relocation support for non-European nationalities.
Internal and external training opportunities for career development.
Family & children friendly - actively shaping the compatibility of family and career.
“Vital4SAL” to promote a healthy workplace (e.g. SAL coaching pool, trainings on mental health, physical activities, healthy snacks, 24/7 accident insurance)
€ 4 per day meal allowance in restaurants or € 2 per working day in supermarkets.
Public transport initiative (subsidy for the “Klimaticket”)
Our values:
Open door policy, flexibility in working hours, casual dress code, diverse teams, working with people of different nationalities, informal communication, lifelong learning,compatibility of family and career, sustainability, personal growth, and collective advancement.

This position is subject to the Collective Agreement for employees in non-university research (Research CA) starting in occupational group E (E1 salary = EUR 3.963, paid 14 times a year) based on 38,5 hours per week. For this position we offer competitive salaries and additional benefits based on your experience and qualifications, starting with a minimum gross salary of EUR 61.000 (annual, based on an All-in contract).This is a unique chance to accelerate your career at the forefront of Europe’s quantum and semiconductor research.

The application window opens early July 2025, with reviews continuing through mid-August.
1st Interviews begin in August/September, followed by a short technical task (two weeks deadline) for shortlisted candidates.
After positive assessment, final candidates will be invited to a second round to present their solution in October.
Final decisions are expected by late October or November, with most positions starting around January/February 2026.

If you're looking for a place to grow, collaborate, and make an impact, we’d love to hear from you.