Physicist (Advanced Optical Systems)

Who We Are

Applied Materials is the global leader in materials science and engineering solutions that are at the foundation of virtually every new semiconductor chip and advanced display in the world. The equipment that we create and service is essential to advancing AI and accelerating the commercialization of next-generation semiconductor chips. Join us and push the boundaries of materials science and engineering in a company at the foundation of the electronics industry. The work we do together advances the world’s technology.

What We Offer

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You’ll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible-while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more.

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Experienced Physicist

We are looking for a highly talented and experienced Physicist to join our R&D team developing advanced optical microscopy systems for the semiconductor industry. This role combines hands-on experimental laboratory work, optical system modeling, physics-based analysis, and multidisciplinary collaboration to solve complex technical challenges and drive next-generation inspection technologies.

What’s in it for you?

• Work on breakthrough technology: Contribute to optical microscopy systems that enable advanced semiconductor inspection and support the production of next-generation microchips.
• Combine physics and engineering: Apply experimental physics, electro-optics, lasers, detectors, optical design, and system modeling to real-world product challenges.
• Own complex investigations: Lead deep technical analysis of physical problems, from root-cause investigation through concept validation and performance improvement.
• Collaborate across disciplines: Work closely with experts in applications, algorithms, electronics, mechanics, optics, software, systems engineering, and external suppliers.

Our Group:

Join a group of skilled physicists and optical experts focused on developing world-class microscopy modules and complex optical systems for semiconductor manufacturing. Our team emphasizes strong physical understanding, methodical experimental work, analytical excellence, and respectful collaboration. We take challenging physical phenomena and transform them into robust, high-performance system solutions.

What you'll be doing:

You will take part in the development of optical-based microscopy systems, from physical concept and feasibility through laboratory validation, modeling, performance analysis, and integration into advanced semiconductor inspection tools.

• Develop advanced optical and electro-optical modules that combine lasers, light sources, detectors, high-end optics, and electrical systems.
• Design, build, execute, and analyze laboratory experiments to validate optical system concepts and performance.
• Perform physics-based simulations, optical system modeling, data analysis, and performance budgeting.
• Lead investigations of complex physical problems, identify root causes, and define practical technical solutions.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary R&D teams, including applications, algorithms, electronics, mechanics, software, system engineering, and external suppliers.
• Translate system requirements into experimental plans, measurable success criteria, and clear technical conclusions.

What should you have?

• PhD in Experimental Physics, Electro-Optics, Applied Physics, or a related field.
• Significant hands-on experience in experimental laboratory work with optical or electro-optical systems.
• Strong analytical capabilities, including the ability to connect physical understanding, measurements, simulations, and system-level performance.
• Experience with lasers, detectors, optical design, imaging systems, microscopy, or complex electro-optical modules.
• Experience with optical physics simulations, system modeling, data analysis, and performance evaluation.
• Proven ability to lead technical investigations, work independently, and drive complex problems to resolution.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and external suppliers.
• Experience with MATLAB, Python, Zemax, or similar analysis and optical design tools - an advantage.
• Experience in the semiconductor industry or optical inspection systems - an advantage.

Additional Information

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Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.