Associate Research Scientist

Research & Experimentation

• Plan and conduct research activities in support of ongoing R&D technology push learning cycles, and new product development, applying scientific or engineering principles to the product development process.
• Build and test materials, sensor prototypes, and systems for research and product validation.
• Assist in the design and setup of test stations and experimental setups.
• Qualify and document prototype performance under defined test conditions.

Data Collection, Processing & Analysis

• Gather, process, and analyze experimental results and data.
• Maintain accurate and organized records of experimental observations, test results, and maintenance activities.
• Contribute to updating instruction manuals, test procedures, and research documentation in collaboration with senior researchers.

Laboratory Equipment & Maintenance

• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on laboratory equipment, including vacuum chambers, roughing pumps, cryopumps, compressors, chillers, and water circulation systems (pumps, filters, tanks, and associated plumbing).
• Responsibilities also include simple machining, fixture building, and assembly tasks to support test stand setup and ongoing research needs.
• Exercise a strong awareness of laboratory hazards such as implosion, explosion, high-voltage (up to 10kV), pyrophoric, and hazardous materials, where applicable.
• Maintenance duties might also extend to equipment in the cleanroom, including the SEM, scrubber, and other specialized tools.

Lab Operations & Support

• Support laboratory organization and 5S initiatives.
• Monitor and restock laboratory consumables and materials; place and track orders with vendors.
• Aid research scientists with repetitive or time-sensitive laboratory tasks, including supervision of deposition processes as required.
• Respond independently to routine operational situations such as water leaks or minor equipment anomalies.

Travel

• Expected to have the ability to travel up to 5% of the time for client meetings, team events, conferences, or site visits.

Qualifications

• Education & Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related STEM discipline with at least 2 years of relevant laboratory or research experience; OR a Master's or Ph.D. in a related field with 0–2 years of experience.
  • Candidates with a strong background in Physics or Chemistry and hands-on laboratory experience are particularly encouraged to apply.
• Experience:
  • Experience with high vacuum systems, thin film deposition technologies and semiconductor fabrication tools — including PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition), CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition), or ALD (Atomic Layer Deposition) — is strongly preferred.
• Familiarity:
  • Familiarity with high vacuum technology, sensor systems, or analytical instrumentation is a plus.
• Technical Skills:
  • Experience with data collection and analysis tools (e.g., Python, LabVIEW, MATLAB, or similar) is beneficial.
  • Familiarity with using AI platforms (such as Claude Code) to develop these tools is also advantageous.
• Other Skills:
  • Familiarity with 3D CAD design software (e.g., Siemens NX, SolidWorks, or equivalent) and/or engineering simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, COMSOL, or similar) is a plus.

Competencies & Skills

• Ability to work both independently and as a collaborative team member in an agile and fast-paced R&D environment.
• Strong analytical thinking and attention to detail.
• Practical problem-solving skills, particularly in troubleshooting equipment and experimental setups.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills for documenting results and coordinating with cross-functional colleagues.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities within a dynamic research environment.
• Ability to thrive in a Lean and Agile work environment — comfortable adapting to shifting priorities, iterating quickly on experiments and processes, and contributing constructively within cross-functional teams.
• Comfort working with hazardous materials and high-voltage equipment following established safety protocols.

Physical Requirements

• This is a full-time, on-site position.
• The role requires frequent standing and walking throughout the workday.
• Occasional lifting and carrying of up to 50 lbs and 40 lbs, respectively.
• The position involves occasional bending, kneeling, crouching, climbing, and reaching.
• Sustained visual concentration on screens, instruments, and detailed assembly work is required frequently.

Working Conditions

• The Associate Research Scientist will work primarily in a laboratory environment in East Syracuse, NY.
• Occasional exposure to chemical hazards, electrical hazards (including high-voltage systems), fumes, dust, and radiation may occur and will be managed in accordance with INFICON safety protocols and applicable regulations.