Scientist: Nanofabrication

About the role

Unearthly Materials Inc. is developing next-generation superconducting materials. We are expanding our R&D program to translate recent breakthroughs into transformative technologies. We are seeking a Scientist with strong hands-on expertise in thin film deposition, particularly of reactive and high-purity metals. The role focuses on developing and optimizing Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) processes, including electron beam evaporation and magnetron sputtering, for rare-earth and quantum materials systems.

The ideal candidate will have experience designing deposition processes, controlling stoichiometry and film uniformity, and minimizing oxidation during growth. This position involves building and refining deposition workflows, troubleshooting experimental systems, and working closely with materials synthesis and characterization teams to develop high-performance thin film materials. We are a highly collaborative, hands-on research team where scientists take ownership of experimental systems and materials development.

Candidates with demonstrated experimental ownership (designing or building instrumentation, growth systems, or measurement setups) are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants should include a short description of the most technically challenging experiment or deposition process they have personally designed, built, or optimized.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize thin film deposition processes for reactive and high-purity metals using Physical Vapor Deposition techniques such as e-beam evaporation and magnetron sputtering.
• Design deposition protocols to control stoichiometry, minimize oxidation, and maintain film purity in high and ultra-high vacuum environments.
• Select and prepare substrates (e.g., sapphire, silicon, quartz) and control film thickness, crystallinity, and interface quality.
• Characterize thin films using techniques such as XRD, SEM, and profilometry, and iterate growth parameters based on structural and morphological feedback.
• Troubleshoot and refine deposition systems, including vacuum systems, sources, and growth conditions.
• Work closely with materials synthesis and device teams to integrate thin films into prototype developments.
• Modify experimental setups, troubleshoot vacuum systems, and iterate deposition conditions to solve materials growth challenges.

About Unearthly Materials

Unearthly Materials, Inc. is an innovative, deep-tech materials company at the frontier of superconducting technology. We have created novel compounds and processes that allow for superconductivity in ambient conditions—a scientific breakthrough poised to revolutionize numerous industries including energy, transportation, medicine, and microelectronics.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in thin film deposition of reactive or high-purity metals.
• Hands-on experience with Physical Vapor Deposition systems (electron beam evaporation, magnetron sputtering).
• Experience operating high or ultra-high vacuum (UHV) systems and controlling contamination during growth.
• Strong understanding of film growth, substrate preparation, and thin film characterization.
• Ability to analyze experimental data and iterate deposition processes to improve film quality.
• Comfortable working in a hands-on experimental research environment.

Preferred Experience

• Experience with rare-earth or reactive metal systems.
• Familiarity with advanced characterization tools (e.g., TEM, XPS).
• Experience working in cleanroom or device fabrication environments.
• Flexibility to work evenings or weekends as needed to meet critical deadlines.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Flexible working hours
• Collaborative, high-impact research environment