Tenure track position for a Researcher in the field of Custom Silicon and Silicon Carbide Radiation Sensors. This position is partially funded by the Piano Nazionale di Ripresa e Resilienza (PNRR) initiative.

Funding reference 

Fondo IPCEI ME/CT – Microelectronics - Continuation
ID: IPCEI-M2 0000006 - CUP C63C23001090006
Decreto di concessione n. 205 del 10/04/2024
Intervento del PNRR M4C2-12.1
Responsabile del Procedimento: Alessandro Dalla Torre 

 

Tenure track position for a Researcher in the field of Custom Silicon and Silicon Carbide Radiation Sensors. This position is partially funded by the Piano Nazionale di Ripresa e Resilienza (PNRR) initiative.

 

FBK is a private research institution devoted to excellence in research in numerous disciplines and designated to the role of keeping the Autonomous Province of Trento in the mainstream of European and international research. Each research area is assigned to a specific research centre, of which there are eleven totals. Information regarding the research centres, their activities and production is available at http://www.fbk.eu/research-centers.

In particular, the FBK Centre for Sensors and Devices, FBK-SD is an applied research centre that operates in the following scientific and technological areas: materials and interfaces, devices and micro-systems, integrated systems. FBK-SD has extremely advanced technical know-how in applied materials science, as well as innovative detector design and fabrication technologies. The strategic mission of FBK-SD is scientific excellence combined with the ability to exploit research results. The innovation model is open to collaboration in national and international expertise networks. More information is available at https://sd.fbk.eu/en/

Background information and description of research projects

This position is offered within the IPCEI ME/CT project. In the IPCEI ME/CT project, FBK intends to significantly expand and improve its manufacturing and integration facilities to achieve high-level and reliable heterogeneous production capabilities to maximise research and competitiveness in the market. In IPCEI ME 1, FBK is developing the 3D integration platform applied to SiPM and SPAD TECHNOLOGIES. Exploiting the results of IPCEI ME 1, the project will mainly work on the integration of new materials (Silicon Carbide & Germanium-on-Silicon) and hetero-integration to extend the capabilities of already established silicon platforms.

Depending on organizational needs, the selected candidate may also be involved in additional activities or projects within the Centre.

Workplace Description

The position available is in the Custom Radiation Sensors (CRS) unit of FBK-SD. The CRS Research Unit carries out R&D activities on advanced radiation and image sensors fabricated with full custom technologies. The main research activities of the group are on the design, development and characterization of silicon radiation detectors, single-photon sensors and advanced image sensors. Recently the group has started to perform research activities to port the current technologies based on silicon also to silicon carbide. More information about CRS is available at  https://sd.fbk.eu/en/crs/

Job Description

The purpose of FBK’s Tenure Track program is to offer high level professionals the opportunity of pursuing a structured career path to become a tenured Researcher and contribute to the long-term strategy of the organization. Within this framework, FBK-SD is looking for a dynamic, highly motivated, independent researcher in the field of silicon radiation sensors, for the development of cutting-edge radiation detection technologies and devices that will be used to build next-generation systems in large scientific experiments and medical and industrial applications, material analysis and spectroscopy, high energy physics experiments, nuclear reactions monitoring for energy applications, payloads for space missions with a focus on devices with internal multiplication.
The research activity will focus on the different types of silicon and silicon carbide radiation sensors and other related devices currently under development at FBK in the CRS research unit and fabricated by using a fully customized micro-fabrication technology both in the internal FBK facility and in external clean-rooms and foundries. More specifically, the candidate will deal with all the design and experimental activities related to the sensor development phase: understanding the application field and relative requirements; simulating new structures and devices with TCAD tools; designing and preparing the wafer layout; developing novel technological solutions in the fields of: device design and structure, micro-fabrication process steps or integration schemes, 3D integration techniques, packaging of detectors also for large-volume productions, experimental characterization techniques and new or optimized applications of the detection technologies and relative devices. The goal will be improving the detector performance or enabling a new set of applications, especially when considering the properties of silicon carbide as sensing material and /or substrate. The candidate will also manage pilot production in the internal facility or technological transfer to external foundries and will maintain contacts with external research and industrial collaboration partners. They will carry out the research characterizing the functionality of the devices with different ionizing and non-ionizing radiation sources; analyzing data with suitable software packages and writing ad-hoc software; elaborating reports and research articles; preparing visual support for public presentations; participating to workshops and conferences to disseminate the research activities; organizing workshops and other technical events. The candidate will be also involved in other research activities related to the development of new 3D-integration technology.

The work will be performed in close collaboration with other device and process scientists and engineers. The selected candidate will become a key part of the team working on ongoing projects and future developments, actively participating in the dissemination and networking activities.

Job responsibilities

The successful candidate will work within the CRS research unit of the FBK-SD center and her/his responsibilities will include: 

  • Innovative research and development of novel technological solutions for sensing devices in silicon and silicon carbide (sensor and front-end read-out devices: design, structure, and process) deeply customizing and improving the technologies for specific application needs;
  • Simulation of new structures and devices with TCAD tools;
  • Design of device layouts, including special test structures and innovative solutions;
  • Advanced functional characterization of the device sensing performance for specific applications which are scientifically interesting for FBK, such as large scientific experiments and medical and industrial applications, material analysis and spectroscopy, high energy physics experiments, nuclear reactions monitoring for energy applications, payloads for space missions including the development of advanced characterization setups;
  • Study and research on the device figures of merit and nuisance parameters, on how they are related to the different device features and technological choices, to improve the technology, and how they affect different application cases;
  • Development, automation, programming, configuration of read-out systems and functional testing systems for radiation sensors, including the use of FPGAs;
  • Management and coordination of scientific and industrial collaborations;
  • Development of new sensor applications and scientific or industrial collaborations and submission of project proposals;
  • Contribution to the unit general activities: dissemination, networking, reporting, quality assurance, self-funding through research proposals and industrial contracts.

Job requirements

The ideal candidate should have:

  • PhD Degree in Physics, Engineering or related fields;
  • proven experience (publications, previous occupations) in the development, design, testing and investigation of silicon radiation sensors, as well their application in scientific experiments, health and medicine, industry;
  • experience in TCAD simulation tools for semiconductor devices and TCAD layout design tools;
  • experience in development and characterization of radiation sensors and devices with internal multiplication (such as Low Gain Avalanche Detectors, Silicon Photomultipliers, Single Photon Avalanche Diodes, Single-Electron Bipolar Avalanche Transistor) also with respect to their performance in specific applications especially for timing, medical, quantum applications;
  • experience in working with external foundries to which FBK has transferred selected technologies;
  • experience in software programming for physical simulations (e.g. Monte Carlo methods in C/C++, Geant), electrical/electronic simulations (SPICE), sensor readout (VHDL), data analysis (ROOT, Matlab, Python);
  • experience in the coordination, management and execution of projects with industrial and/or academic partners;
  • experience in working for research projects;
  • Language assessment according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR): level of knowledge required. Knowledge of English will be verified during the interview on a technical or scientific topic and must be equal to or exceed level B2. Definitions of levels can be found at the following link https://www.coe.int/en/web/common-european-framework-reference-languages/level-descriptions;
  • teamwork approach, good communication and relational skills;
  • strong orientation to results, determination, flexibility and aptitude for problem-solving;
  • a desire to grow and develop in their professional niche.

Employment

Type of contract: Tenure Track contract, leading to an FBK 3rd Level Researcher (R3) permanent contract 

Working hours: full-time (38 h per week)

Start date: September 2025

Duration: The duration of the Tenure Track contract will be determined by the Committee based on the scientific objectives and the assigned KPIs (at least one year, which may be reduced in accordance with the Committee assessment on the candidate's abilities and skills). The scientific objectives will be linked to IPCEI ME/CT project objectives. If the final assessment of the Tenure Track experience is positive, the selected candidate for the tenure track position will be offered a permanent R3 contract.

Contract type: CCPL Research Foundation Personnel (https://trasparenza.fbk.eu/ita/Personale/Contrattazione-collettiva/Rinnovo-CCPL-delle-Fondazioni)  the current gross annual remuneration is Euro 44.087,26 corresponding to a Third level Researcher;  a superminimum may be granted up to a total gross annual remuneration of  Euro 48.000, depending on knowledge and expertise of the successful candidate.

Workplace: Povo, Trento (Italy)

Benefits: flexi-time, company subsidized cafeteria or meal vouchers, internal car park, welcome office support for visa formalities and for research in accommodation, supplementary pension (Resaver, Laborfonds) and health fund (Sanifonds), family-work balance, free training courses, support on bank account opening, discount on public transport, sport, language course fees, counseling and psychological support service. More info at https://www.fbk.eu/en/work-with-us/


The Bruno Kessler Foundation invests in people’s growth and promotes a stimulating environment that values talent. Through the Talent Development Program, each participant will be engaged in a tailored experiential journey designed to enhance skills, attitudes, and aspirations. Concrete tools for professional growth will be available, including personalized assessments to understand and develop individual potential, structured career paths to help shape the future, and development strategies within a dynamic and innovative scientific environment.

Application

Interested candidates are requested to submit their application by completing the online form (https://jobs.fbk.eu/). Please make sure that your application contains the following attachments (in pdf format):

  • detailed CV, including a list of publications;
  • cover letter explaining your motivation for this specific position;
  • statement of Research Interests.

Application deadline: 25th June 2025

 

Selection process and assessment criteria

The Evaluating Committee will be appointed by the Foundation's Secretary General at the end of the application deadline. 

The commission must meet the conditions provided by the guidelines PNRR and Tenure Track procedure, which consists of: an external expert to the Foundation, recognized in the technical-scientific and disciplinary fields relevant to the Call for the Tenure Track Position; the Head of the People Innovation for Research Service; the Head of Research Assessment; two of the Foundation's Center Directors engaged in the disciplinary domain related to the Call for Tenure Tracks; the Head of the Research Enhancement Special Purpose Unit, or their delegates.

The recruiting process will be handled in accordance with the “Gender and generational equal opportunities, as well as the employment inclusion of people with disabilities in public contracts financed with the resources of the PNRR and PNC” guidelines  and with the Foundation's Gender Equality Plan.

The short-list shall be compiled based on the requirements set out in the call (contained in the requirements of the job description), with the support of the screening of CVs and any other required documents.  

Candidates with a minimum score will be admitted to the interview phase. Shortlisted candidates must do at least one interview with the Institutional Committee. 

 

In case of specific need, the Selection Committee can also meet remotely, by teleconference or videoconference, provided that all members can be identified and that they are able to follow and intervene in the discussion, as well as to receive, transmit and view documents.

During the evaluation step, evaluation support tools such as tests or questionnaires may be used. Furthermore, group tests and/or practical tests may be administered.

 

Evaluation criteria 

The selection process includes two evaluation moments led by the Commission: the screening and the interview phase. The screening process will be based on the evaluation of the qualifications and expertise that the candidate expresses on the resume. A maximum of 40 points will be allocated to this assessment phase and only candidates obtaining at least 25 points will be admitted to the interview. The interview scores will be assigned to candidates by the Commission according to the following criteria: the presentation of their personal research profile; the knowledge about the scientific domain, the experience in working for research projects and the language skills. A maximum of 60 points will be allocated to this assessment phase. The interview is considered as “passed” if the applicant obtains at least 45 points. The final score will be used to generate the final suitability list for each job position.

Results of the selection process

All candidates will be notified via email once the selection process has been completed. The suitability list may be used to fill the position in case the successful candidate doesn’t accept the job offer. At the website https://jobs.fbk.eu/ in the "Selection results" section, will be published the details of the selection process and the final results. 

Diversity & Inclusion policy 

FBK actively seeks diversity and promotes inclusion in the workplace. The main aims of the FBK Diversity & Inclusion policy are to:

  • promote gender equality across the research domains and on all levels by encouraging qualified female candidates to apply for job positions and by implementing specific improvements and measures as stated in the Gender Equality Plan (GEP) 
  • foster young talents development by offering opportunities to grow
  • become a disability-inclusive organization by encouraging applications from candidates with a disability (Law 68/99). We provide special assistance to applicants during the recruitment procedure and reasonable arrangements for disabled staff 
  • promote a healthy work-life balance by offering a package of flexible working arrangements and facilities (telework, individual working time, parental leave, etc).

The FBK operates in compliance with current legislation concerning fixed-term contracts. Candidates with disabilities are invited to state whether they belong to the categories referred to in Law 68/99, and to indicate this in the curriculum vita sent in application for recruitment.

Processing of personal data

Pursuant to art. 13 of EU Regulation No. 2016/679 (GDPR), we inform you that your personal data shall be processed for the management of the selection process and of the obligations connected to it, through manual, electronic and informatic means and will be guaranteed within privacy and security standards as indicated in the full privacy policy. In order to ensure and respect the principles of publicity, transparency and impartiality, the name of the successful candidate and the names of suitable candidates will be published on the FBK website following acceptance of the position.

For further information, please contact  the People Innovation for Research Department at jobs@fbk.eu.