PhD Vacancy - METROLOGY AND PROCESS INTEGRATION FOR DEFECT MAPPING OF SEMICONDUCTOR MATERIALS

National Physical Laboratory; Teddington; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 20,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading measurement science organization in Teddington is seeking a PhD candidate to develop innovative methods for analyzing semiconductor wafers. The project focuses on compound semiconductors essential for electric vehicles and quantum technologies. Applicants should have a strong academic background in Chemistry, and the role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to critical advancements in semiconductor technology.

Benefits

Flexible working

Social activities for work–life balance

Support for health and well-being

Qualifications

• Minimum Upper Second Class honours in Chemistry or related subject.
• Master's degree with Merit may also be considered.
• English language proficiency evidence may be required.

Responsibilities

• Develop methods to inspect semiconductor wafers using machine learning.

Skills

Machine Learning

Chemistry

Analytical Skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field

Master's degree in Chemistry or related field

Job description

About the role

This highly innovative PhD project, led by Swansea University and based at NPL in London, aims to create new tools for analysing semiconductor wafers and devices, focusing on the latest materials such as compound semiconductors. Compound semiconductors are important in the UK's semiconductor strategy and are used in electric vehicles, sensors and quantum technologies. They are more efficient than traditional silicon but are sensitive to defects that can cause production issues and high costs.

The project will develop methods to inspect wafers more effectively, using machine learning to identify critical defects in advanced semiconductor materials such as SiC, GaN and β‑Ga₂O₃. These materials offer profound advantages for power devices over silicon technologies, and this PhD work is critical because low production yields result in waste and slow market growth.

Candidate requirements

• UK bachelor's degree with a minimum of Upper Second Class honours in chemistry or a related subject, or an overseas bachelor's degree deemed equivalent to a UK Bachelor (by UK ECCTIS) and achieved a grade equivalent to UK Upper Second Class honours in chemistry or a related subject;
• Or a master's degree with a minimum overall grade of Merit in chemistry or a related subject (or non‑UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University);
• Due to funding restrictions, this scholarship is open to applicants eligible to pay tuition fees at the UK rate only (as defined by UKCISA regulations);
• English language proficiency evidence may be required.

The project is funded by an iCASE award to the National Physical Laboratory (NPL). The award will fund a Swansea University student to undertake a PhD at NPL’s Teddington laboratories near London.

NPL is a world‑leading centre of excellence that provides cutting‑edge measurement science, engineering and technology. We are committed to diversity and equality of opportunity and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion or age. Applications from women, disabled and Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates are especially encouraged. All disabled candidates who satisfy the minimum criteria will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.

We are committed to the health and well‑being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are supported to create a positive work‑life balance.

We will make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss any aspect, please contact us.