Careers
R&D Application Engineer
icspi is building the future of nanoscale imaging.
We’ve revolutionized atomic force microscopy (AFM) by miniaturizing it by a factor of 1,000,000x compared to traditional systems: integrating all the components of an AFM onto a single CMOS chip, which we call microAFM.
Our desktop instruments, powered by microAFM, have reset the expectations for nanoscale imaging and are used by scientists and engineers in over 40 countries to accelerate R&D and drive manufacturing efficiency in academia and industry.
Now we are using our technology to solve throughput-resolution gaps in the semiconductor industry: catching nanoscale defects to enable new processes and prolong Moore’s Law.
Today, scanning a wafer with AFM would take about 70 years. By using thousands of microAFMs in parallel, we can scan a wafer in a matter of hours.
About the role
As an R&D Application Engineer at icspi, you will work on developing protocols to ensure data quality.
We are looking for a resourceful, hands-on engineer. You will play a crucial role in developing and optimizing the scan protocol of our unique micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS)-based AFM technology to drive industry-leading performance and capability.
You will work closely with our engineering team across disciplines (mechanical, electrical, and applications) to design characterization methods for novel samples, troubleshoot noise, and push the physical limits of our hardware. You will own application and protocol development – defining parameter tuning, calibration routines, hardware selection. You will also design and conduct investigations, working closely with our automation team to turn your protocols into scalable software.
The ideal candidate is a self-starter who uses first principles thinking and has solid experience in precision characterization, surface science or analytical instrumentation.
What you'll do
- Push our systems to the limit to collect high-quality data
- Design and develop scan protocols for samples, including sample preparation
- Process data and develop data analysis protocols
- Work with microfabrication teams to improve chips to optimize data quality
- Work with mechanical and electrical engineers on bring-up of new systems
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree or higher in engineering (nanotechnology, chemical) or science (physics)
- 3+ years of experience in precision scientific instrumentation (AFM, SEM, TEM)
- Strong scripting skills (Python)
- Hands-on experience with data, signal or image processing
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot complex issues effectively across hardware and software
Nice to have
- Experience with AFM
- Background in semiconductor industry
- Familiarity with control theory
To apply
Send your CV and portfolio to [email protected] with the job title in the subject. Cover letter not necessary.
Working at icspi
We’re a hardware company that designs, manufactures and sells our own products. Our lab and office is in downtown Kitchener, Ontario, Canada.
