Research Scientist, Thin Films

About the role

Join a world-class team of scientists and engineers pushing the boundaries of materials research in a groundbreaking lab where AI and automation unlock discoveries at unprecedented speed and scale. As a Research Scientist in Thin Film Materials Discovery, you will lead thin-film synthesis efforts using advanced PVD platforms, building the experimental foundation for autonomous discovery loops. You will collaborate with computational and AI scientists, and partner with engineers designing next-generation automated laboratory infrastructure.

Responsibilities

• Develop synthesis strategies to realize novel thin-film materials predicted by AI
• Determine and control crystal structures, defects, microstructures, and properties of previously unrealized compounds
• Partner with AI and computation teams to build predictive models of materials growth and properties grounded in physics and chemistry
• Work with engineers to design, test, and deploy automated growth and characterization hardware

Requirements

• PhD in chemistry, physics, or materials science, with 5+ years of hands-on experience
• Deep expertise with thin-film synthesis methods such as sputtering, PLD, and MBE, with demonstrated experience and creativity across diverse chemistries
• Strong skills in structural and chemical characterization, particularly of thin films and materials with structures or compositions never before realized experimentally — including diffraction, microscopy, and spectroscopy
• Proven record of collaboration with computational groups, especially for high-throughput materials discovery
• Demonstrated commitment to laboratory safety and stewardship, with hands-on experience in hazardous chemistries
• Strong track record of highly impactful research demonstrated by publications in top-tier journals and/or inventions, and recognized leadership in the field

Qualifications

• If you have experience working in national user facilities such as synchrotrons or neutron sources, that is especially strong
• Experience with automation and scripting in laboratory environments
• Experience developing novel synthesis or characterization techniques
• Experience with large experimental datasets and analysis pipelines
• Experience with automation and scripting in laboratory environments

Skills

• Comfort with large experimental datasets and analysis pipelines

Benefits

• Compensation: The annual base compensation range for this role is $160,000–$220,000, commensurate with experience

Pay

• The annual base compensation range for this role is $160,000–$220,000, commensurate with experience

Schedule

• Our lab is located in Menlo Park and we prefer folks to be located in Menlo Park or San Francisco but can be flexible based on role