Postdoctoral Fellow / Process Engineer, Metal-Assisted Chemical Etching

About the role

The X-ray Imaging Professorship at ETH Zurich, supported by the SNSF-funded project ABSOLUTE, is looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher or Process Engineer to work on metal-assisted chemical etching (MacEtch) of silicon. The project develops a catalyst concept for defect control in MacEtch of silicon, aiming to improve the reliability, scalability and quality of high-aspect-ratio microstructures used in X-ray optics. The position is based in Zurich and is fixed-term.

Key responsibilities

• Expand and enhance MacEtch testing across a wide range of feature sizes and aspect ratios
• Investigate defect formation mechanisms, optimize process parameters and assess scalability
• Fabricate and process samples on 4-inch silicon wafers using UV photolithography, thin-film deposition, thermal treatments and MacEtch
• Characterize structures dimensionally with optical microscopy, SEM and profilometry
• Develop metrology and defect-analysis methods for high-aspect-ratio etched microstructures
• Document procedures and results, analyze data, write technical reports and present at conferences and workshops
• Publish results and take part in collaborative research

Required profile

• PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering or a closely related field
• Proven experience in semiconductor cleanrooms, with hands-on expertise in photolithography and SEM
• Experience in silicon etching and MEMS fabrication highly desirable; translational research experience is an advantage
• Strong analytical skills, teamwork in multidisciplinary settings and ability to manage priorities under tight deadlines
• Willingness to travel within Europe (up to 20% of working time) and excellent English

Required skills

• Photolithography and scanning electron microscopy (SEM)
• Semiconductor processing and silicon etching
• Data analysis and technical reporting

What we offer

• Comprehensive on-the-job training and personal and professional development opportunities
• A culture of vocational training and modern employment conditions supporting work-life balance
• Initial one-year contract with the possibility of extension

Applications must be submitted online through the university's application portal, with a motivation letter, CV, publication list, transcripts and at least two reference letters.