Rsch Pro 4-Research Lab

This is a one-year, temporary posted position.

*About the Job:
The candidate will lead nanofabrication and characterization efforts for nano and microscale photonic devices, requiring a Ph.D. in Materials Science, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. The role involves designing and executing experiments in a cleanroom environment, optimizing fabrication processes (e.g., lithography, thin-film deposition, etching), and performing advanced materials characterization using techniques such as SEM, AFM, and optical spectroscopy. The successful candidate will independently drive research projects, analyze complex datasets, contribute to grant proposals and publications, and mentor junior team members. Familiarity with photonic simulation tools and prior experience with lithographic techniques (e-beam lithography, nano-imprint lithography) and fabrication of magneto-photonic devices are highly desirable. The position offers the opportunity to collaborate on high-impact projects in an interdisciplinary setting, advancing both fundamental research and practical applications in photonics.

*Duties/responsibilities
In this role, the candidate will be responsible for designing and executing experiments in a cleanroom environment (40%), developing and optimizing fabrication processes such as lithography, thin-film deposition, and etching (20%), and performing advanced materials characterization (15%). The position also requires the candidate to perform simulations and independently analyze data, prepare manuscripts and reports, participate in team meetings and foster collaborations (25%).

*Required qualifications include:
- BS/BA in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, or a closely related field, plus at least five years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least nine years
- Hands-on experience in nanofabrication techniques (e.g., lithography, thin film deposition, etching)
- Proficiency in characterization methods (SEM, AFM, optical spectroscopy) for device analysis
- Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research, including experimental design and data interpretation
- Familiarity with cleanroom operation and safety protocols
- Expertise in simulation or modeling tools
- Experience integrating bio-photonic and magneto-photonic components into nanoscale devices
- Strong communication skills and a proven record of publications or conference presentations
- Demonstrated leadership or mentorship experience in a multidisciplinary research environment
- Experience with silicon-nitride-based nanofabrication

*Preferred qualifications include:
- Ph.D. in Materials Science, Applied Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field
- Postdoctoral academic experience in nanotechnology or biophotonics

The Department of Mechanical Engineering has an internationally recognized faculty, and is part of the College of Science and Engineering, the highly interdisciplinary college of engineering, physical sciences, and mathematics.

Pay Range: $29.81 - $31.73 per hour ($62,000 - $66,000 annually); depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 75%-100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).