Postdoctoral Fellow / Process Engineer for metal assisted chemical etching

1000scholars; Zürich; On-site; CHF 90,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

ETH Zurich's X-ray Imaging Professorship seeks a Postdoctoral Researcher or Process Engineer to join the ABSOLUTE project at Paul Scherrer Institute. Your work will advance metal assisted chemical etching (MacEtch) for high‑aspect‑ratio silicon microstructures used in next‑gen X‑ray optics.

You will expand MacEtch testing, optimize process parameters, and contribute to robust fabrication workflows. A PhD and semiconductor cleanroom experience are required; travel within Europe is possible.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering or related field.
• Experience in semiconductor cleanrooms with photolithography and SEM.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities; proactive and collaborative.
• Willingness to travel within Europe (up to 20%).
• Excellent written and verbal English communication.

Responsibilities

• Expand and enhance MacEtch testing across features/sizes and aspect ratios.
• Investigate defect formation, optimize parameters, assess scalability.
• Characterize high‑aspect‑ratio etched microstructures and develop metrology & defect analysis.
• Fabricate and process samples on silicon wafers using MacEtch and related steps.
• Document procedures, analyze data, and contribute to reports and publications.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Multidisciplinary teamwork

Prioritization

English communication

Education

PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering

Tools

Photolithography

Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)

MEMS fabrication

Job description

Postdoctoral Fellow / Process Engineer for metal assisted chemical etching

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The X-ray Imaging Professorship is dedicated to advancing the clinical translation of grating-based X-ray interferometry in close collaboration with industrial partners. This groundbreaking technology relies on the development of state-of-the-art X-ray optics enabled by cutting‑edge micro- and nanofabrication techniques.

To support this effort, we are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher or Process Engineer to join the SNSF-funded project ABSOLUTE, working under the supervision of our micro- and nanofabrication specialist, Dr. Lucia Romano, at the Paul Scherrer Institute. As part of a multidisciplinary team of academic and industrial researchers, you will contribute to the development and optimization of next‑generation fabrication technologies with direct relevance to advanced X-ray imaging applications.

The SNSF-funded project ABSOLUTE (nAnoassemBled catalySt and electrOchemicaL processing for hUge aspecTratio microstructurEs) focuses on developing an innovative catalyst concept for defect control in metal‑assisted chemical etching (MacEtch) of silicon. The project aims to overcome key challenges in the fabrication of high‑aspect‑ratio microstructures by improving process reliability, scalability, and manufacturing quality.

Job description

In this role, your primary responsibility will be to expand and enhance our MacEtch testing capabilities across a broad range of feature sizes and aspect ratios. You will investigate defect formation mechanisms, optimize process parameters, assess scalability, and contribute to the development of robust fabrication processes that enable the production of complex silicon microstructures for future X-ray optical components.

You will contribute to cutting‑edge research in:

• Integration, qualification, and performance assessment of an advanced and unconventional microfabrication process
• Systematic optimization of fabrication parameters to improve process robustness, reproducibility, and scalability
• Characterization of high‑aspect‑ratio etched microstructures, including the development of dedicated metrology and defect‑analysis methodologies

Your responsibilities

• Fabricate and process samples on 4-inch silicon wafers using UV photolithography, thin‑film deposition, thermal treatments, and metal‑assisted chemical etching (MacEtch)
• Perform structural and dimensional characterization using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and profilometry
• Document fabrication procedures, process results, and experimental findings in a structured and traceable manner
• Analyze data, prepare technical reports, and contribute to project deliverables
• Present research outcomes at international conferences, scientific symposia, and internal workshops
• Disseminate results through high‑impact scientific publications and collaborative research activities

Profile

We are seeking a highly motivated professional with a strong collaborative mindset, a hands‑on approach to problem solving, and a demonstrated ability to deliver results in a dynamic research environment.

• PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering, or a closely related discipline
• Proven experience working in semiconductor cleanroom environments, with a solid understanding of semiconductor processing and hands‑on expertise in photolithography and scanning electron microscopy (SEM)
• Experience in silicon etching and MEMS fabrication is highly desirable. Previous involvement in translational research at the interface between academia and industry would be a distinct advantage
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, combined with a practical, hands‑on attitude and the ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams
• Ability to manage priorities and perform efficiently in a project‑driven environment with demanding timelines
• Willingness to travel within Europe (up to 20% of working time)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English

We offer

• Our organization operates on the principles of interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation, and dynamism. As a valued member of our team, you can expect to receive comprehensive on‑the‑job training, as well as access to various personal and professional development opportunities. Additionally, we foster a strong culture of vocational training, which will enable you to enhance your skillset and advance your career.
• We recognize the importance of achieving a healthy work‑life balance, and as such, we offer modern employment conditions and on‑site infrastructure to support you in optimizing your schedule to accommodate your personal interests and family commitments.

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate‑neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Dr. Marco Stampanoni or Dr. Lucia Romano at [e-mail] or [e-mail].

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting‑edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.