Sr. Research Chemist/Scientist

About the role

Join UCT and be part of the fastest-growing sector in the world! We indirectly touch every semiconductor chip that goes into every smartphone, smart car, and device that uses artificial intelligence. This is a critical time for the semiconductor industry and for UCT—as technology evolves, we evolve with it. UCT is a diverse workplace where every talented employee is committed to continuous innovation, challenging the status quo, and exceeding customer expectations. If you are a person with a relentless drive to succeed, a strong focus on quality, and a passion for success—join us today!

The Senior Research Chemist/Scientist leads advanced research, formulation, and characterization activities that enable new materials, chemistries, and process innovations for semiconductor manufacturing. This role designs and executes complex experiments, interprets data with scientific rigor, and partners with Process Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality to transition new chemistries into production. The Senior Scientist drives technology readiness, solves high-impact technical challenges, and contributes to innovation pipelines that improve yield, device performance, and operational efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Lead research, development, and optimization of materials, chemistries, or formulations used in semiconductor processes (e.g., CMP slurries, etchants, precursors, cleans, coatings).
• Design and execute complex experimental plans, including DOE, mechanistic studies, and analytical characterization.
• Analyze data using appropriate statistical and scientific methodologies; document and communicate findings across R&D and manufacturing teams.
• Collaborate with Process Engineering to evaluate material performance in fab environments and translate research outcomes into manufacturable solutions.
• Support scale-up, pilot testing, and technology transfer into production, ensuring material readiness and process stability.
• Troubleshoot material-related yield excursions, contamination events, or device performance issues.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including test methods, material specifications, and research reports.
• Partner with suppliers and cross-functional teams on material evaluation, qualification, and lifecycle management.
• Stay current with advancements in materials science and semiconductor processing; recommend new approaches and technologies.
• Mentor junior chemists/scientists and contribute to building scientific capability within the team.
• Support intellectual property activities, including invention disclosures and patent review.
• Perform other duties as assigned; responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience conducting experimental research in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
• Strong understanding of chemical synthesis, characterization techniques, and analytical instrumentation (e.g., spectroscopy, chromatography, microscopy).
• Ability to independently design experiments, interpret data, and draw scientifically sound conclusions.
• Experience collaborating with engineering or manufacturing teams to apply research outcomes to real-world processes.
• Strong problem-solving, documentation, and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting semiconductor manufacturing, materials development, or advanced functional materials.
• Familiarity with semiconductor process modules such as deposition, etch, CMP, clean, or lithography.
• Experience with statistical tools (e.g., JMP, Minitab) and structured experimentation (DOE).
• Demonstrated success developing new chemistries or improving existing materials for production use.
• Experience mentoring junior scientists or contributing to multi-disciplinary technical programs.

Education

• Minimum: Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related scientific field.
• Preferred: Master’s degree or PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Training in advanced analytical methods, DOE/statistical analysis, or semiconductor materials.
• Formal training in safety, chemical handling, or cleanroom protocols (as applicable).

Pay

The pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between $129,500.00 and $180,000/year. Base pay may vary depending on market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package may also include variable pay, discretionary awards, and benefits such as 401(k) eligibility and paid time off (e.g., PTO and parental leave).