Postdoctoral Researcher - Multifunctional Materials Development

Elve Speed Inc.; Davis (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits (medical, dental, vision)

Vacation

Cutting-edge technology exposure

Engagement with experts

Job summary

A leading deep-tech startup in California is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to advance their innovative wireless technology. The role involves conducting experimental research on high current density nanocomposite scandate tungsten electron emitters. Candidates should have a Ph.D. in Materials Science or related fields and expertise in material synthesis and data analysis. The position offers a unique opportunity to work with a collaborative team focused on cutting-edge technology in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a relevant field is essential for applying.
• Familiarity with vacuum systems is desired.
• Experience publishing in peer-reviewed journals is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experimental research on NST emitters.
• Collaborate with physicists and engineers.
• Analyze data using statistical techniques.

Skills

Material synthesis and characterization techniques

Data analysis software proficiency

Communication skills

Collaboration skills

Experience with small parts

Education

Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, Electrical Engineering

Tools

XRD

SEM

MATLAB

Python

Job description

Who is Elve?

Elve, Inc. is a deep-tech startup in Davis, CA, whose patented technology enables 100x faster wireless internet access in urban settings and remote locations. Elve delivers a transformative approach to designing and manufacturing high-efficiency lightweight millimeter-wave and near-THz RF power amplifiers in large quantities. Our solutions enable the next generation of wireless connectivity well beyond 5G, as well as high-resolution imaging and radar. We are looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher to play a role in advancing our technology. If you are passionate about the future of RF electronics, cathodes, additive manufacturing, precision assembly, microfabrication, vacuum systems, advanced materials processing, and contributing to a small and energetic team - we can’t wait to meet you!

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our team focusing on developing high current density nanocomposite scandate tungsten (NST) electron emitters employed to energize millimeter wave power amplifiers manufactured by Elve. This is an 18-month program. A successful candidate will engage in cutting‑edge research to enhance these advanced electron emitters’ performance, manufacturability, and lifetime. The researcher will conduct experimental research on the synthesis, characterization, and optimization of materials used to fabricate NST emitters including the design and execution of experiments focused on the electrical and thermal properties of those emitters. The candidate will also collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of physicists, materials scientists, and engineers to integrate those findings into device prototypes and processes. We are looking for a colleague who will analyze data using statistical and modeling techniques and present findings in academic journals and conferences as well as internally to Elve.

Work Environment (May be a combination of the following but not limited to):

• Manufacturing Environment
• ISO 5 - ISO 8 Cleanroom
• Laboratory
• Machine shop
• Warehouse
• Office

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Background in material synthesis and characterization techniques (e.g., XRD, SEM, etc.).
• Proficiency in data analysis software (e.g., MATLAB, Python, or similar).
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment.
• Experience working with small parts / small things
• Within a commutable distance of Davis, CA
• US Citizenship Required

Desired Skills

• Experience publishing research in peer-reviewed journals.
• Proficiency in investigating and incorporating results from published materials.
• Familiarity with the fabrication and testing of cathodes for vacuum devices.
• Familiarity with theoretical models for cathode emission in vacuum environments.
• Experience with ultra-high vacuum systems.

Benefits

• Health benefits (medical, dental, vision)
• Vacation
• A taste of the start‑up life
• Exposure to cutting‑edge technology in vacuum electronics, materials science, and additive manufacturing
• Engagement with world‑class experts and engineers at all levels

What it’s like to work at Elve

We are an expanding team on a mission to bring the next generation of high‑speed wireless connectivity to a billion people worldwide. That kind of impact will not be achieved with incremental improvements - we are gunning for orders of magnitude advances in production capability, cost, size, and power in the mm‑wave RF amplifier market. We work hard, make sure we get good sleep, handle conflict with intentionality, and expect great things from each other.