MOVPE Expert / MOVPE Expertess

FIRST-Center for Micro- and Nanoscience

FIRST is an interdepartmental cleanroom facility directly supported by ETH Zürich. Serving the scientific community, FIRST stands for Frontiers in Research: Space and Time. It supports a multi-disciplinary spectrum of departments within ETH as well as industry, facilitating research and development across a broad range of micro- and nanotechnologies.

Throughout the history of science, new discoveries have been made by pushing boundaries: shorter time scales, lower temperatures, greater intensities, higher energies, smaller distances, and cleaner materials. The impact of technology on scientific breakthroughs is well documented. FIRST-Lab provides a common technology and fabrication facility, enabling research at these frontiers. With the objective of staying at the technical forefront, FIRST was established with maximum flexibility to adapt to the evolving needs of scientific research. An open concept allows swift responses to the dynamic nature of the field and invites participation from newly established research groups. At FIRST-Lab, scientific motivation drives technology, positioning it as a tool for advancing science.

Job Opportunity

In anticipation of the upcoming retirement of the current incumbent, we are seeking a highly qualified individual with expertise in MOVPE (Metal-Organic Vapor Phase Epitaxy).

Starting: July 1st, 2025 or upon agreement

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain a MOVPE system for the growth of III-V compound semiconductors.
• Assist in the scientific development of existing and new processes in alignment with the needs of research groups.
• Manage the operation, maintenance, and development of tools for the characterization of epitaxial layers, including but not limited to III-V cleaver, optical microscopy, C-V profiling, anneal-oven, Hall mobility measurements, PL measurements, high-resolution X-ray diffractometry, SEM, and EDX. Hands-on skills in using and maintaining such tools are advantageous.
• Train and supervise users of characterization tools.
• Evaluate, purchase, and install new equipment (especially MOVPE for the new ETH cleanroom facility FIRST II).
• Oversee managing and operational duties within the cleanroom, including organizing FIRST service days for technical infrastructure, troubleshooting cleanroom techniques, and managing the toxic gas detection system.
• Collaborate closely with the safety officers of FIRST and ETH.
• Develop and adapt building automation systems to optimize media consumption and energy efficiency.
• Support the installation of cleanroom equipment and media supplies.
• Complete administrative work related to documentation and reporting.
• Engage in other topics related to FIRST as future needs evolve.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience with MOVPE equipment (Aixtron preferred).
• Experience in the characterization of epitaxial layers.
• Background in specific scientific fields such as optoelectronics, micro- and nanotechnology.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in English and German.
• Effective team player with strong communication abilities.
• Distinct safety awareness.
• Able to work in a cleanroom environment with strict adherence to gowning and cleanliness protocols.

Your Impact

Join ETH Zurich, an institution that supports your professional development while contributing to positive societal change. We are passionately committed to maintaining a sustainable and climate-neutral university.

As a team member, you can look forward to various benefits, such as public transport season tickets, car-sharing options, a wide array of sports programs offered by the ASVZ, childcare resources, and attractive pension plans.

Apply online using the form below, and include the following documents:

• Cover letter (max 1 page).
• CV (including a list of publications, if applicable).
• Work references and/or copies of your academic credentials.

Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For further information about the lab, please visit the FIRST - Center for Micro- and Nanoscience website.