Research Scientist in Newport

Company Overview: The SPTS division of KLA designs, manufactures and markets wafer processing solutions for the global semiconductor and related industries. SPTS provides industry leading etch and deposition process technologies on a range of single wafer handling platforms. End‑market applications include micro‑electromechanical systems (MEMS), advanced packaging, LED, high speed RF device IC’s and power semiconductors. SPTS is part of KLA Corporation which develops industry‑leading equipment and services that enable innovation throughout the electronics industry.

Group/Division: SPTS wafer processing solutions include market‑leading silicon etch, dielectric etch, dry‑release etch, PVD, PECVD and molecular vapor deposition (MVD®), available with a range of wafer‑handling options applicable to R&D, pilot production, or volume production environments. SPTS is headquartered and has its main manufacturing facility in Newport, UK, with additional manufacturing in Allentown, Pennsylvania. SPTS operates across 19 countries in Europe, North America and Asia‑Pacific, and offers comprehensive service and spare parts support through a worldwide network of service centers and qualified local agents.

Job Description/Preferred Qualifications: Working as part of our Advanced Development team, the primary responsibilities of this role will be to develop novel plasma etch and deposition technology to meet both the current and future demands of KLA SPTS Division customers. This will involve generating new hardware/process concepts, modelling with a commercial simulation software package, as well as carrying out challenging hands‑on process development and hardware testing. You will be on a steep learning curve to understand process integration challenges for 3D Advanced Packaging, Photonics and Specialty applications, discussing requirements with development partners and creating solutions for future products. Additional responsibilities will include advising end users on system performance, preparing reports and technical notes, presenting data technical review seminars and building successful relationships. Good inter‑personal skills should complement the ability to work with a high degree of autonomy. There will be a strong focus on process development based on understanding/modelling of mechanisms, and detailed analysis of results, generating new process solutions & IP submissions. This position will involve a minimal amount of international travel.

Qualifications & Experience: Applicants will be educated to PhD level in a chemistry, physics, materials science or semiconductor technology discipline. Ideally, applicants will have relevant experience of working with plasma etch, CVD, PVD, ALD equipment. The successful candidate will have:

• Good analytical skills including the ability to carry out metrology such as SEM
• Knowledge of and ideally experience of using end point techniques
• Excellent communication skills
• The ability to work both autonomously and as part of a small team
• Knowledge of modelling (COMSOL® or equivalent package) and DOE would also be advantageous

What we will offer you? KLA's benefits package includes: Annual leave starting at 25 days (plus bank holidays), contributory pension scheme, cash health plan, cycle to work scheme, global bonus plan, share scheme, rewards scheme and life assurance!

Minimum Qualifications: PhD - Physics, Chemistry, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science or Semiconductor Technology. Ideally with >3 years work experience/Post Doc. We offer a competitive, family friendly total rewards package. We design our programs to reflect our commitment to an inclusive environment, while ensuring we provide benefits that meet the diverse needs of our employees. KLA is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.