The FBK Center for Sensors and Devices (FBK-SD) is an applied research centre active in the following scientific and technological fields: materials and interfaces, devices and microsystems, 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 about the Center is available at https://sd.fbk.eu/en/.
The candidate will be working in the Micro and Nano Fabrication Facility (MNF) unit of FBK-SD. The facility specializes in silicon micro and nano-processing and produces leading-edge sensors through its worldwide recognized competencies in optical and electronic lithography, etching, physical vapor deposition (PVD), chemical vapor deposition (CVD), ion implantation, and thermal processes. The MNF facility, with more than 1000sq meters of ISO4-ISO7 clean rooms and other 1000sq meters of laboratories, offers fully controlled process modules that allow for customization of several technological platforms, such as SDD, SiPM, LGAD, opto sensors, and gas sensors, for various applications, including space and other harsh environments. The facility also engages in quantum technologies and nanofabrication research and development based on focused ion beam (FIB) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) innovative tools. In addition to front-end fabrication cleanrooms, the facility includes testing laboratories for device characterization, a packaging cleanroom for the implementation of innovative package solutions and an integration area for developing complete systems at different technology readiness levels (TRLs), collectively constituting the back-end area.
MNF is an open infrastructure equipped to accommodate both external users from research and industry. More information about MNF is available at https://sd.fbk.eu/en/research/mnf/.
Job Description
The purpose of FBK’s Tenure Track program is to offer high-level professionals the opportunity to pursue a structured career path to become tenured researchers contributing to the long-term strategy of the organization.
Within this framework, the MNF research unit is seeking a dynamic and highly motivated independent researcher specialising in advanced lithography and patterning for silicon (Si), and silicon carbide (SiC) sensors. The role will involve developing lithographic platforms in line with the SD Center's strategic research plan, initiated through the IPCEI ME/CNT and Chips JU projects. With the Centre's research field expansion plan, the successful candidate will be expected to assist with the investigation and acquisition of new instrumentation to support the research and technical staff.
Specifically, the candidate will oversee all experimental activities relating to UV, electron and ion beam lithography in the context of novel sensor development on SiC and diamond. Technologies currently available in the facility (optical, direct laser, electron and ion beam lithography), will be used for the tenure track programme. Additionally, during the programme, there will be an opportunity to lay the groundwork for the introduction of deep UV technology, which would represent a significant step forward for FBK-SD.
In addition to lithography activities, the candidate should be familiar with the other manufacturing techniques that underlie the production process of sensors. He/her will also be expected to work independently when carrying out characterisation activities using analytical tools such as an atomic force microscope (AFM), a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and a focused ion beam (FIB) system. The candidate will be expected to support the SD Centre's research activities by collaborating with SD researchers and external partners. They will also be expected to participate in preparing visual materials for public presentations and to participate in workshops, conferences and other events to disseminate research activities.
Main Tasks:
The successful candidate will work within the Micro-Nano Facility (MNF) of FBK-SD and her/his responsibilities will include:
- supervise the current consolidated optical lithographic capabilities of FBK-SD (based on mask aligner and stepper lithography) providing support to the other research units in their research for processing and layout design activities;
- further develop the lithographic capabilities recently adopted in FBK-SD, including electron beam lithography, direct laser writing and FIB-based patterning, to enable the integration of nanostructures into sensors produced in the Center;
- lead the implementation of innovative lithographic technologies according to the SD Center's strategic plan. This will involve deep UV systems and potentially nano-imprinting tools;
- develop lithographic processes on silicon carbide and diamond substrates to create novel sensors, in line with the SD Center's strategic plans for quantum applications and silicon carbide platforms;
- characterize devices using advanced microscopy techniques, including atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM) for activities of topography investigation, imaging, cross-section processing and lamella preparation
- actively participate in research and publishing & disseminating results to enhance the scientific profile of the SD centre
- coordinate the lithography team by providing support with process issues, quality control, and non-conformity management;
- coordinate the clean room staff to ensure laboratory operations by providing support to researchers and technicians for processing, maintenance and quality control;
- improve collaboration opportunities within the international micro and nanotechnology research landscape, focusing on lithography;
- maintain a strong connection with the other MNF areas and SD Center for research projects, providing support for process development and characterisation;
- support the Quality Management System by monitoring non-conformities (NCs) and statistical process controls (SPCs).
FBK actively seeks diversity and inclusion in the workplace and is also committed to promoting gender equality.
Job requirements
The ideal candidate should have the following qualifications.
Specific technical requirements:
- Master’s Degree in Physics, Material’s Science or a related field.
- PhD (or equivalent 3 years post-master experience) in Physics, Material’s Science or in related field;
- excellent knowledge and proven practical experience (previous occupation and/or publications) of at least 5 years with lithographic techniques (optical, e-beam, ion-beam and nanoimprint lithography), alignment exposure tools (mask aligner, stepper and nano-imprinting tools) as well as ancillary equipment for sample preparation and layout designing using CAD software (e.g. KLayout, L-Edit or equivalent);
- practical experience in conducting research on nanofabricated systems and quantum devices based on diamond technology;
- good knowledge and practical experience of micro-nano fabrication techniques for sensor applications, as plasma etching, wet processes and deposition;
- good knowledge and practical experience of material/device characterization by SEM and AFM techniques and circuit editing/reworking by FIB-SEM techniques;
- oral and written proficiency in both Italian and English.
Soft skills
- team-oriented approach, with strong communication and interpersonal skills;
- strong orientation to results, determination, flexibility and aptitude for problem-solving;
- a desire to grow and develop in their professional niche.
Additional requirements
- practical experience in cleanroom environment with ISO class 4-7 or equivalent of minimum 7 years;
- knowledge of ISO 9001 principles and experience with quality management system tools such as non-conformities (NC) and statistical process control (SPC);
- competence and experience in team leadership for a minimum of 4 years;
- experience in laboratory equipment acquisition procedures (equipment market analysis, tendering, installation and acceptance procedures);
- good communication skills in technical and scientific fields (including English).
Employment
Type of contract: Tenure Track position leading to an FBK 3nd Level Researcher (R3) permanent contract
Duration: The duration of the Tenure Track contract will be determined by the Committee based on the assigned KPIs (at least one year, which may be reduced in accordance with the Committee assessment on the candidate's abilities and skills). 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
Working hours: full time (38 h per week)
Gross annual salary: 44.087 € (plus objectives achievement bonus). A superminimum may be granted up to a total gross annual remuneration of Euro 49.700, depending on knowledge and expertise of the successful candidate
Start date: September 2025
Workplace: Povo, Trento (Italy)
Benefits: flexi-time, company subsidised cafeteria or meal vouchers, internal car park, welcome office support for visa formalities, accommodation, supplementary pension and health found, training courses, public transport, sports facilities, language courses fees. Further details at https://www.fbk.eu/en/work-with-us/
Fondazione Bruno Kessler 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;
- Motivational letter;
- Statement of Research Interests.
Application deadline: 7th of July 2025
Please read our Regulations “Guidelines for Tenure Track positions” before completing your application.
For further information or technical issues regarding the application, please contact the Human Resources Service at tenuretrack@fbk.eu.