Research & Applications manager

Keiron; Eindhoven; Hybrid; EUR 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Professional growth opportunities

Dynamic, collaborative environment

Cutting-edge laser technology

Job summary

Keiron in Eindhoven seeks a Research & Applications manager to provide scientific direction for the development and optimization of Laser Induced Forward Transfer (LIFT) processes. Based full-time at our headquarters in Eindhoven, you will combine hands‑on experimental work with technical leadership, guide complex investigations, and work closely with engineering and application teams to translate research results into reliable, scalable solutions.

With a Ph.D.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Physics, Materials Science, Engineering, Applied Physics, or related discipline.
• Demonstrated senior-level experience in experimental research and technology development in an industrial or applied research environment.
• Strong expertise in LIFT, laser-material interaction, laser processing, microfabrication, or related field.
• Advanced capability in experimental design, scientific instrumentation, statistics, and data-driven decision-making.

Responsibilities

• Set the scientific direction for LIFT process development and provide evidence-based recommendations for technical decisions.
• Translate internal and external application needs into clear research questions, experiments, and measurable success criteria.
• Lead advanced research into LIFT methodologies and laser systems; collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Design and execute rigorous experiments using advanced laser systems, diagnostics, and statistical methods.
• Mentor colleagues and transfer knowledge to multidisciplinary teams; contribute to IP and publications.

Skills

LIFT expertise

Experimental design

Data analysis

Statistical methods

Python

MATLAB

Technical leadership

Mentoring

Education

Ph.D. or Master’s in Physics/Engineering

Tools

Python

MATLAB

Job description

The Research & Applications manager will provide scientific direction for the development and optimization of Laser Induced Forward Transfer (LIFT) processes. Based full-time at our headquarters in Eindhoven, you will combine hands‑on experimental work with technical leadership, guide complex investigations, and work closely with engineering and application teams to translate research results into reliable, scalable solutions.

Customer and Application Focus : Translate internal and external application needs into clear research questions, experiments, and measurable success criteria

One Team Keiron : Work toward shared goals across Research, Systems, Optics, Mechatronics, Software, Applications, and Operations, and actively improve products and processes

Scientific Leadership : Set the scientific direction for LIFT process development, challenge assumptions, and provide evidence‑based recommendations for technical decisions

Research and Development : Lead advanced research into LIFT methodologies, laser‑material interaction, transfer mechanisms, and novel process concepts

Experimental Design : Design and execute rigorous experiments using advanced laser systems, materials, diagnostics, and statistical methods

Data Analysis and Process Optimization : Analyze complex experimental data, identify causal relationships and trends, and drive parameter optimization and process robustness

Technology Roadmap : Define research priorities, milestones, risks, and decision criteria in alignment with the product and technology roadmap

Collaboration and Knowledge Transfer : Mentor colleagues, establish sound research practices, and convert scientific insights into actionable guidance for multidisciplinary teams

Innovation and Intellectual Property : Monitor relevant scientific developments, generate new concepts, and contribute to patents, publications, and the protection of company know‑how

Documentation, Quality and Safety : Maintain traceable research records and technical reports, safeguard data quality, and uphold the highest standards for laser and laboratory safety

What You'll Bring

• A Ph.D. or Master's degree in Physics, Materials Science, Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related discipline
• Demonstrated senior‑level experience in experimental research and technology development in an industrial or applied research environment
• Strong expertise in LIFT, laser‑material interaction, laser processing, microfabrication, or a closely related field
• Advanced capability in experimental design, scientific instrumentation, statistical analysis, and data‑driven decision‑making
• Hands‑on experience with laser systems, optical diagnostics, materials, and laboratory equipment
• A track record of turning research results into repeatable processes, technical specifications, or product‑relevant solutions
• Clear communication, technical leadership, mentoring skills, and the ability to thrive in a dynamic scale‑up environment

Highly valued additional qualifications include:

• Experience in semiconductor, electronics, photonics, precision equipment, or high‑tech manufacturing
• Experience industrializing laboratory processes and working through a high‑tech development V‑cycle
• Proficiency with Python, MATLAB, or comparable tools for experimental control and data analysis
• Experience with optical diagnostics, high‑speed imaging, process monitoring, or metrology
• Experience contributing to patents, scientific publications, or externally funded research projects
• Knowledge of laser safety, laboratory quality systems, and relevant industry standards

ABOUT US

Our mission: Why compromise?

Our mission is to achieve a zero‑defect assembly line with unmatched efficiency, transforming electronics manufacturing through LIFT technology. By eliminating the limitations of traditional stencil and jet printing, we provide a fully digital, contactless, and high‑precision solution that enhances quality, speed, and reliability.

At Keiron, we believe manufacturers shouldn't have to choose between performance and efficiency. Our technology enables autonomous, self‑sustaining production, reducing dependency on consumables and minimizing process inefficiencies. With a focus on automation, precision, and scalability, we are driving the next generation of electronics assembly—where excellence is the standard.

Grow together with Keiron

We're passionate about transforming industries with cutting‑edge laser technology and are always looking for talented individuals to help us achieve our vision. Explore our exciting career opportunities and discover how you can contribute to the future of advanced manufacturing with us!

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Opportunities for professional growth and development
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment
• The chance to contribute to groundbreaking technology with the potential to revolutionize industries

Meet the Team

What's it like to be part of Keiron? Our team says it best.

What you'll gain as a new team member

Joining Keiron means becoming part of something bigger. You'll work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry, tackling challenges that will shape the future. Here's what's in it for you:

An Unmatched Learning Experience: Keiron provides the tools, training, and mentorship you need to excel. You'll be surrounded by cutting‑edge technology and have access to a network of industry leaders.

We're committed to your growth. Whether you're looking to deepen your expertise or move into leadership, Keiron offers career paths that align with your ambitions.

Work-Life Balance That Works: At Keiron, we understand the importance of balance. Our "Pleasure and Performance" philosophy means we encourage a healthy work‑life balance, ensuring you're energized and passionate about your work.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and we enthusiastically invite candidates from diverse backgrounds and experiences to join our team and contribute to the future.