Research Scientist - Semiconductor Process Chemistry - Co-op Student Fall 2026

TechInsights; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 24,796 - 38,572; Full time

Job summary

TechInsights in Ottawa is offering a co-op role at the intersection of chemistry and materials science. You will contribute to hands-on R&D on chemical and plasma etching of advanced semiconductor materials, from design to execution, in an on-site setting.

The position emphasizes experimental chemistry and workflow development, with opportunities to explore open-ended technical challenges and document findings to guide next-generation material processing.

Qualifications

• Currently a student in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science or a related field with emphasis on experimental chemistry.
• Strong foundation in chemistry principles, including reaction mechanisms, surface chemistry, and kinetics.
• Extensive hands-on chemistry lab experience with independent setup, execution, troubleshooting and documentation.
• Ability to leverage AI-assisted tools, literature and technical resources to support research and problem-solving.

Responsibilities

• Research, design, and execute experiments on chemical (wet) and plasma (dry) etching of semiconductor materials.
• Investigate open-ended technical challenges involving chemical interactions and process development.
• Translate experimental concepts into reliable, repeatable laboratory workflows.
• Document methods, results and insights to support ongoing research and future process development.

Skills

Chemistry fundamentals

Lab techniques

Research mindset

Education

Chemistry / Chemical Engineering / Materials Science student

Job description

Overview

This co‑op role is an opportunity to contribute to hands‑on research and development at the intersection of chemistry and materials science. You’ll join our R&D team working on chemical and plasma etching of advanced semiconductor materials, taking on real experimental work from design through execution. This is a chemistry‑forward position where you’ll investigate open‑ended technical challenges, develop and refine laboratory workflows, and contribute directly to research that informs how next‑generation materials are processed and understood.

What You’ll Do

• Research, design, and execute experiments on chemical (wet) and plasma (dry) etching of modern semiconductor materials
• Investigate open‑ended technical challenges involving chemical interactions, process development, and materials compatibility
• Translate experimental process concepts into reliable and repeatable laboratory workflows
• Document experimental methods, results, and technical insights to support ongoing research and future process development

What You’ll Bring

• Currently a student enrolled in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field with emphasis on experimental chemistry
• Strong foundation in chemistry principles, including reaction mechanisms, surface chemistry, and kinetics
• Extensive hands‑on chemistry lab experience, including independent experimental setup, execution, troubleshooting, and documentation
• Ability to leverage AI‑assisted tools, scientific literature, and technical resources to support research, generate and refine experimental ideas, and accelerate problem‑solving while critically evaluating results

Experience With Any of the Following Is an Asset

• Semiconductor etching
• Microfabrication/cleanroom environments
• Operation of vacuum systems (etching, deposition)
• Surface analysis (AFM, SEM, optical microscopy, surface profilometry)
• Residual Gas Analysis (RGA) or Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS)

Working Arrangement

This is an on‑site role at our Ottawa office, with work conducted across both lab and office environments. The role involves handling chemicals and semiconductor materials.

Citizenship and Export Control

As part of the recruitment process for this position, you will be required to submit your latest citizenship and/or permanent residency information. This information will be used to comply with U.S. Export Control Laws and Regulations.

Accommodations

TechInsights is committed to meeting the needs of people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.

Company Culture

Technology knows no bounds, and neither does TechInsights. We’re committed to building an inclusive environment that welcomes you to be your authentic self and allows us to push past the boundaries together.

Data Privacy

As part of any recruitment process, TechInsights collects and processes personal data relating to job applicants. We are committed to being transparent about how we collect and use that data and to meeting our data protection obligations. Our Privacy policy can be referenced here: https://www.techinsights.com/privacy-policy