Scientist - Piezo/ferroelectric nitride thin films for wide band gap applications (f/m/d)

Scientist – Piezo/ ferroelectric nitride thin films for wide band gap applications (f/m/d) // Job-ID: 124-1

Festanstellung, Vollzeit · VILLACH

Your future responsibilities

• Development of magnetron sputtering processes for piezoelectric nitrides (AlN, AlScN, AlXN) on wide band gap substrates (SiC, GaN) with a state-of-the-art cluster tool
• Design of layer stack and process development for seed/buffer layers and metallic electrodes
• Thin film structural and functional characterization (incl. XRD, ellipsometry, AFM, piezoelectric characterization)

• Solving thin-film deposition issues related to material selection and (co-)sputtering process parameters and take corrective actions
• Design and execution of advanced experiments, data analyses, and process improvements

• Collaborate as part of the Thin Film Technologies Research Unit and Microsystems Division in ongoing projects by performing state-of-the-art investigations on materials and thin-film technology for diverse MEMS applications and beyond
• Performing data analysis using analytical calculations, modelling, and standard statistical methods
• Generating innovative ideas to improve MEMS device performance
• Working in advanced ISO5 clean room facility
• Scientific communication, reporting of research results and drive technical innovation and IP generation
• Project management of funded research projects

Your profile

• PhD degree in materials science, physics, chemical engineering, or related fields with a focus on thin film technology (preferably nitrides)
• Relevant publication records in thin film development
• Experience working with (industrially relevant) equipment involving thin film deposition (magnetron sputtering) and materials characterization is a plus
• Know-how on piezo/ferroelectric 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 is a must

Important Facts about SAL

• 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.
• Home office in Austria and work from anywhere in the European Union possible (max. 20%).
• 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 3.827, 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).

About us

Silicon Austria Labs (SAL) is a top research center for  Electronics and Software Based Systems (ESBS) . At three locations (Graz, Villach, Linz), SAL is conducting research along the entire ESBS value chain in the areas of sensor systems, power electronics, intelligent wireless systems, microsystems and embedded systems to develop future-oriented solutions for industrial production, health, energy, mobility, safety and more. SAL brings together key players from industry, science and research and thus valuable expertise and know-how and conducts cooperative, application-oriented research along the value chain. Cooperative projects are co-financed by SAL and enable a fast and unbureaucratic project start. SAL is thus shaping the high-tech location Austria and Europe and developing the future  Innovation is our top priority and so are our employees. We are a family-friendly company and support the compatibility of work and family as much as possible. That is why we have been awarded the Work and Family Certificate until 2026. But we are constantly working on new measures to offer our employees an environment where they feel good, healthy and motivated.