Material Science Engineer For Diamond Quantum Devices And Microelectronics

The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is looking for a Material Science Engineer to lead experimental research activities on the operation, diagnosis, and optimization of plasma processing for quantum and Microelectronics applications, with specific interest in diamond growth expertise for the former. The experimental activities will be based at PPPL and will involve close collaboration with researchers at Princeton University and other participating institutions. The position will also involve management of associated staff, experimental hardware and laboratories, the development of new research directions coordinating and helping to write group/center proposals, and engagement with stakeholders.

PPPL is a leading plasma physics and fusion energy research laboratory managed by Princeton University for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science. PPPL is diversifying its research portfolio to include low-temperature-plasma applications including plasma-assisted fabrication of quantum and microelectronic materials and devices.

A proud U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is a longstanding leader in the science and innovation behind the development of fusion energy — a clean, safe, and virtually limitless energy source. With an eye on the future and in response to national priorities, PPPL also has begun a strategic shift from a singular focus on fusion energy to a multi-focus approach that includes microelectronics, quantum information science, and sustainability science. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to make their mark on our world. PPPL aims to attract and support people with a rich variety of backgrounds, interests, experiences, and cultural viewpoints. We are committed to equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility and believe that each member of our team contributes to our scientific mission in their own unique way. Come join us!

The successful candidate will leverage state-of-the-art plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition reactors to grow quantum and Microelectronics grade diamond in dedicated laboratories at PPPL, collaborating with a team of scientists at PPPL and Princeton University. Advanced plasma, surface, and sample diagnostics will be deployed to characterize the impact of reactor and plasma parameters on diamond growth rates, crystalline structure, and vacancy distribution and density in the presence of various co-dopants. Simulations of reactor operation and configuration, plasma production, and diamond formation will be benchmarked with experiment and utilized to optimize diamond production for specific quantum and Microelectronics applications. This focused collaborative research direction could result in new diamond materials and devices with potential commercial applications.

Core Duties: 

• Lead plasma-based growth and processing of diamond for quantum and Microelectronics applications with emphasis on novel co-doping techniques and quantum grade diamond.

• Manage at least 4 plasma chemical vapor deposition reactors for growing high quality single crystal diamond, coordinate facilities and lab infrastructure with on-site facilities teams, and oversee plasma reactor modifications and maintenance.

• Manage research staff and postdocs working on growing and processing diamond, plasma diagnostics, modeling, materials characterization, and spectroscopy.

• Pursue several ambitious scientific goals that push the frontiers in diamond materials science and quantum and Microelectronics applications.

• Work together with co-PIs to define research goals, design experiments, plan long-range opportunities, and steward new directions that advance national and DOE priorities.

• Present results and project plans to a range of technical and programmatic stakeholders including development of new funding proposals.

Education and Experience: 

• PhD in chemistry, physics, materials science, applied physics, engineering, surface science, plasma physics or related field.
• 3 years since PhD (other experience levels will be considered depending on applicant skill level).

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

• Demonstrated experimental and diagnostic skills relevant to position.
• Experience in plasma/microelectronics processing equipment operation, materials growth, or related areas; expertise in diamond materials is valued but not required.
• Ability to work with and lead multidisciplinary research teams producing high-impact results, publications, and presentations.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to identify new research opportunities and develop and articulate strategic research plans.
• Demonstrated ability to lead successful research proposal development and garner new funding is desirable.

Physical Requirements: 

• Position will be hybrid or on-site for CVD reactor operation and associated experimental research.
• Occasional travel may be required to present results at meetings and conferences, interact with collaborators and program managers, and/or interact with CVD reactor manufacturers.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.