Material Science Application Specialist

Reporting to: Radoslav Enchev, Group Leader – Visual Biochemistry Lab

Contact term: This is a full-time, fixed term (2 years) position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.

Summary

We are seeking a laboratory application scientist who will be responsible for the execution of nano-fabrication techniques, along with the characterisation of nano/micro pattern mould manufacture and TEM grid assembly devices. The position is laboratory-based and very hands-on. The successful candidate will contribute to a research team by working alongside senior engineers to improve and develop new nano-manufacturing processes and devices. The position involves versatile, creative thinking, inclusive teamwork, and detailed execution of process steps include establishing nanoimprint techniques and working with external manufacturers, electroplating, material investigation/testing, physical vapour deposition (PVD) of thin films, chemical release processes, assembly and various characterisation techniques such as scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy.

Key responsibilities

These include but are not limited to:

• Nano-imprinting – thin-film deposition, chemical processing, foil lift-off, assembling and releasing these films to particular substrates.
• Metrology and quality control – Collecting and measuring data and executing nano-characterisation processes. Performing optical microscope, SEM and profilometry measurements on nano-imprinted substrates.
• Communication – Maintaining and updating documentation such as standard operating procedures (SOPs). Delivering regularly scheduled reports to a high-quality standard. Develop procedures, facility layouts, and maintenance plans for manufacturing parts.
• Organisation – Ensure all materials are filed following agreed conventions and are easily accessible. Develop internal quality strategies, integrating the new method development and operations production processes.
• Travel – Potential opportunity to travel between collaborator/institutes/universities for knowledge transfer and training.

Key experience and competencies

The post holder should embody and demonstrate our core Crick values: bold, imaginative, open, dynamic and collegial, in addition to the following:

Essential

• BSc/BEng or Master degree in material science, physical chemistry, manufacturing, MEMS/nanotechnology/nanoscience, or equivalent.
• Familiarity with coating, electroplating, physical vapour deposition, UV casting, thin-film foil-lift off, thermal embossing, spin coating, drop-casting.
• Knowledge and a good understanding of the related material properties, and processing concepts is essential while, experience in assembly and TEM grid manufacturing is a plus.
• Ability to plan and manage your own work schedule and maintain accurate records to document research progress
• Good technical and problem-solving skills
• Strong collaborative ability and teamwork experience

Desirable

• Characterisation (optical microscopy, profilometry, SEM, AFM); familiarity with cleanroom safety, chemical processing and hazardous materials handling protocols.
• Identify and implement new manufacturing technologies, tools, processes, or equipment.
• Develop concepts, prepare designs, detail drawings, estimate costs, and coordinate procurement of manufacturing fixtures for production.
• Monitor manufacturing processes to identify ways to reduce scrap, decrease production time, and or improve quality.