Postdoctoral Research Associate Coherent X-ray Scattering

ORGANIZATION OVERVIEW

As one of the newest, most advanced synchrotron light sources in the world, National Synchrotron Light Source II (NSLS-II) enables its growing research community to study materials with nanoscale resolution and exquisite sensitivity by providing cutting-edge capabilities. This facility is open to users from academia and industry. Its operations coincide with a moment when the world is entering a new era with a global economy driven predominantly by scientific discoveries and technological innovations. The Imaging and Microscopy Program at NSLS-II operates the world-leading scanning probe microscopy (HXN, SRX, TES) and transmission X-ray microscopy (FXI) beamlines, and two additional beamlines (CDI and SXN) are under construction. The Imaging and Microscopy Program provides a suite of comprehensive research tools for new scientific discoveries and breakthroughs in critical areas.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The NSLS-II is seeking an exceptional Postdoctoral Research Associate to join a project aimed at developing an advanced coherent X-ray scattering method and refining the corresponding workflow for characterizing defectivity in extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUVL) patterns. This project is part of the research effort on the development of new and improved EUV photoresists at BNL. The selected candidate will work with a team of scientists and technical staff within the Imaging and Microscopy Program, utilizing the world-leading expertise in X-ray imaging at NSLS-II and in collaboration with the researchers at the Center for Functional Nanomaterials (CFN) and the Computational Science Initiative (CSI). 

The selected candidate will perform scientific research on optimizing coherent X-ray scattering methods for characterizing the structural parameters and stochastic defects in EUVL patterns,  enabling quantification of nanometer-sized defects in millimeter-sized samples. The candidate will perform scattering simulation based on the prior-known structure (i.e., from a design file) with possible types of commonly expected defects and perform coherent x-ray scattering experiments, with the goal of developing efficient methods for determining the critical dimensions and visualizing defect distribution. The candidate is expected to incorporate the latest machine-learning methods for increasing measurement and analysis throughput. In order to achieve this goal, the candidate is expected to collaborate with the researchers from other divisions within BNL as well as the external researchers (i.e., IBM, NIST, etc.).

Brookhaven National Laboratory and the Energy and Photon Sciences Directorate are committed to your success. We offer a supportive work environment and the resources necessary for you to succeed.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

•    Develop a coherent X-ray scattering workflow for high-throughput, high-spatial-resolution microelectronics metrology.
•    Perform coherent scattering simulations and experiments, and incorporate machine-learning methods to optimize the metrology workflow.
•    Collaborate with CFN scientists to design test structures.
•    Present results in peer-reviewed journals and at conferences.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

•    Ph.D. in Computer Science, Physics, Material Science, or related discipline.
•    Demonstrated experience in X-ray scattering data acquisition and analysis.
•    Demonstrated experience in computational programming.
•    Excellent oral and written communication skills.
•    Excellent publication or presentation records in the related areas.
•    Ability to work independently as well as effectively in a collaborative team environment for solving scientific problems.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

•    Demonstrated experience in X-ray scattering, particularly in coherent scattering or CD-SAXS (Critical-Dimension Small-Angle X-ray Scattering).
•    Demonstrated experience in X-ray reflectivity and grazing-incidence scattering.
•    Demonstrated experience in Python programming (either via publications or software)
•    Knowledge of machine-learning algorithms. 

OTHER INFORMATION:

• BNL policy requires that after obtaining a PhD, eligible candidates for research associate appointments may not exceed a combined total of 5 years of relevant work experience as a post-doc and/or in an R&D position, excluding time associated with family planning, military service, illness or other life-changing events.

• Brookhaven Laboratory is committed to providing fair, equitable and competitive compensation. The full salary range for this position is $70000 - $106000 /year. Salary offers will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification, education and experience and considered with the internal peer group.

Brookhaven employees are subject to restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Talent Recruitment Programs, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation at the time of hire for review by Brookhaven. The full text of the Order may be found at: https://www.directives.doe.gov/directives-documents/400-series/0486.1-BOrder-a/@@images/file

Brookhaven Science Associates is an equal opportunity employer that values inclusion and diversity at our Lab. We are committed to ensuring that all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, status as a veteran, disability or any other federal, state or local protected class. BSA takes affirmative action in support of its policy and to advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities. We ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.