Staff Computational Chemistry/MD Engineer

Lam Research; Fremont (CA); Hybrid; USD 141,000 - 307,000; Full time

Job summary

Lam Research is seeking a Staff Computational Chemistry/MD Engineer to advance atomistic simulations for etch and deposition processes in our Semiverse Solutions Team. You will work on cutting‑edge techniques, integrating quantum chemistry with process engineering to explore new chemistries and materials for next‑generation semiconductor technologies.

You will lead and mentor peers in atomistic modeling, apply DFT and MLIP approaches, and collaborate with diverse teams across Lam’s global

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Computational Chemistry, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or Materials Science (or equivalent).
• 5–8 years of industry experience post-Ph.D.
• Experience using DFT software (Gaussian, Quantum Espresso).
• Experience with frontier molecular orbital analysis and full reaction pathway studies.
• Experience applying quantum chemistry to semiconductor processes and materials applications.
• Experience with MLIP architectures (e.g. MACE, SevenNet).
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks.

Responsibilities

• Perform first‑principles calculations and atomistic modeling to study reaction mechanisms and surface chemistry.
• Generate training datasets from quantum chemistry/DFT to support simulations.
• Support process engineering R&D and simulations for chambers and features.
• Plan projects and select concepts for simulation evaluation workflows.
• Evaluate data to guide chemistries, materials, and process limits.
• Communicate insights through presentations to stakeholders.

Skills

Atomistic modeling

DFT knowledge

Team collaboration

Project management

Education

Ph.D. in Computational Chemistry/related field

Tools

Gaussian

Quantum Espresso

ReaxFF

MLIP architectures (MACE/SevenNet)

Job description

The group you’ll be a part of

In the Semiverse Solutions Team, we are dedicated to excellence in the virtual experimentation of Lam’s etch and deposition processes. We drive innovation to ensure our cutting‑edge solutions are helping to solve the biggest challenges in the semiconductor industry.

The impact you’ll make

As a Staff Computational Chemistry/MD Engineer at Lam, you will operate on cutting‑edge technology, harnessing atomic precision, materials science, and surface engineering to push technical boundaries. Your role involves identifying new and advanced processes and chemical formulations. Your expertise and knowledge will play a crucial role in our customers’ success, making an impact on next generation semiconductor technologies.

What You’ll Do

Technical

• Perform first‑principles calculations and atomistic modeling to investigate reaction mechanisms, surface chemistry, plasma‑surface interactions, and materials behavior
• Generate high fidelity training datasets from quantum chemistry and density functional theory (DFT) calculations to support development of next‑generation simulation capabilities
• Utilize computational chemistry learning to support process engineering research & development, and process/chamber/feature simulations
• Plan projects involving definition and selection of new concepts and approaches for simulation evaluation workflows
• Compile and evaluate modeling data to provide guidance on chemistries and materials, as well as appropriate limits and variables for process specifications
• Communicate chemistry and process insights clearly through presentations and technical discussions with stakeholders

Leadership

• Act as a resource for colleagues with less experience in atomistic simulations

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Computational Chemistry, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or Materials Science (or equivalent)
• 5-8 years of industry experience, post Ph.D.
• Experience using DFT software (e.g. Gaussian, Quantum Espresso)
• Experience with frontier molecular orbital analysis and full reaction pathway studies
• Experience applying quantum chemistry fundamentals to solve challenges related to semiconductor processes and materials applications
• Experience with MLIP architectures (e.g. MACE, SevenNet)
• Strong organizational skills and demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Interest in advanced technology and an on‑going desire to learn
• Ability to work effectively and efficiently with diverse teams

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with reactive molecular dynamics (e.g. ReaxFF)

Our commitment

We believe it is important for every person to feel valued, included, and empowered to achieve their full potential. By bringing unique individuals and viewpoints together, we achieve extraordinary results.

Lam Research ("Lam" or the "Company") is an equal opportunity employer. Lam is committed to and reaffirms support of equal opportunity in employment and non‑discrimination in employment policies, practices and procedures on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, or military and veteran status or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. It is the Company's intention to comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Company policy prohibits unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees.

Work Location Models

Lam offers a variety of work location models based on the needs of each role. Our hybrid roles combine the benefits of on‑site collaboration with colleagues and the flexibility to work remotely and fall into two categories – On‑site Flex and Virtual Flex. ‘On‑site Flex’ you’ll work 3+ days per week on‑site at a Lam or customer/supplier location, with the opportunity to work remotely for the balance of the week. ‘Virtual Flex’ you’ll work 1-2 days per week on‑site at a Lam or customer/supplier location, and remotely the rest of the time.

Salary

CA San Francisco Bay Area Salary Range for this position: $141,000.00 - $307,000.00.

The above salary range for this position is relevant to applicants that reside or work onsite in the California, San Francisco Bay Area only. Salary offers will depend on factors that include the location you work from, your level, education, training, specific skills, years of experience and comparison to other employees already in this role. Actual salary may vary from salary offered due to numerous factors including but not limited to unpaid time off, unpaid leave, company mandated shutdown, and other relevant factors.

Our Perks And Benefits

At Lam, our people make amazing things possible. That’s why we invest in you throughout the phases of your life with a comprehensive set of outstanding benefits.