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Cornell University, Research Division

Position ID:
Cornell-Research&Innovation-CNFRA [#31945, WDR-00058019]
Position Title: 
Research Associate, Nanotechnology Process Development and Support
Position Type:
Non tenure-track faculty
Position Location:
Ithaca, New York 14850, United States of America
Subject Areas: 
Materials Science
Applied Physics
Electrical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Nanostructure Science and Technology
Appl Deadline:
(posted 2026/04/13, listed until 2026/09/01)
Position Description:
   

Position Description

The Cornell NanoScale Science and Technology Facility (CNF) seeks a Research Associate to join its technical team and provide leadership in thin film deposition and etching and associated process integration. This is a hands-on academic research position focused on nanotechnology process development and support in advanced techniques. 

The Research Associate will support advanced instrumentation including thin film deposition, etching, resist processing, advanced data preparation, and process flow development. The Research Associate will be responsible for both instruction and user process support. At least 20 hours per week will be spent in the cleanroom, with regular handling of hazardous chemicals. The position will be part of a team consisting of CNF users and CNF tool and user support staff and will report directly to the CNF Director Of Operations. 

The successful candidate will have experience working in a multi-user fabrication facility, extensive experience with process integration and other thin film technologies, and experience interacting with users and trainees at a broad range of levels. A customer service orientation and excellent communication skills will be critical to success in this role. 

Responsibilities of this position include: 
  • Supervising, maintaining, and repairing assigned CNF equipment, predominantly RIE and deposition tools; and assuring the quality and safety of new and existing processes. This position is also responsible for conducting and supporting of remote user processing involving the operation and integration of all CNF equipment. Furthermore, the position involves characterization of thin film deposition and etching equipment and making the information available to staff and users. 
  • Developing and documenting thin film processes related to nanotechnology, as well as integrating these processes into higher level modules. Optimizing both performance and reproducibility. Maintaining process control charts as necessary. Processes supported will include photolithography, wet and dry etching, and both physical and chemical vapor deposition. Publishing results as appropriate. 
  • Preparing training materials for correct operation of advanced tools. Providing instruction on use of CNF equipment and supporting users in various applications in the thin film processing area. 
  • Working with specific CNF users to design and implement appropriate process flows to meet the user’s needs. This will include instruction in specific instruments and processes.
  • Maintaining specific film processing systems in an operational and productive state. Providing backup to several other facilities as required. Documenting operational issues and repairing as necessary.
  • Participating in setting policies and making decisions for Fab protocols and procedures.
  • Maintaining an individual record of scholarship, contributing to the scholarly output of CNF through publications and presentations, and mentoring students, staff, and other researchers in techniques within this area of expertise. 
Your Qualifications 
Successful candidates should demonstrate the following: 
  • Ph.D. in Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field
  • 8+ years of nanotechnology laboratory experience 
  • Knowledge of all aspects of microfabrication technology, including thin film production, etching, lithography, and analysis 
  • Ability to work much of each day in a cleanroom 
  • Demonstrated ability to apply novel imaginative and innovative solutions to design, engineer, modify, and repair equipment 
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with a broad range of users
  • Demonstrated ability to work safely with hazardous chemicals 
  • Ability to work calmly in a stressful environment 
  • Ability to interact effectively as part of a team with users at all levels of processing competence 
How to Apply 
Applications should include: 
  • Cover letter describing your past research experience and accomplishments and why you are interested in joining CNF 
  • Complete CV with publications 
  • Contact information for 3 references 
Deadline and More Information 
Application review will begin immediately and will continue on a rolling basis until the position is filled. This is a full-time (40 hour/week), fixed-term position with benefits. The initial appointment period will be for three years. The anticipated hiring salary is $90,000. 

About Us 
The Cornell NanoScale Science and Technology Facility (CNF) mission is to enable rapid advancements in science, engineering, and technology at the nanoscale by providing efficient access to nanotechnology infrastructure and expertise. CNF operates as a flexible open user facility and is proud to be a member of the National Nanotechnology Coordinated Infrastructure (NNCI).


Employment Assistance:

For specific questions about the position or application process, please contact the Recruiter listed in the job posting or for general questions email mycareer@cornell.edu.

If you require an accommodation for a disability in order to complete an employment application or to participate in the recruiting process, you are encouraged to contact Cornell Office of Civil Rights at voice (607) 255-2242, or email at accommodations@cornell.edu.

Applicants that do not have internet access are encouraged to visit your local library, or local Department of Labor. 

Please read the required Notice to Applicants statement by clicking here. This notice contains important information about applying for a position at Cornell as well as some of your rights and responsibilities as an applicant.

EEO Statement:

Cornell welcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world-class education and career opportunities, to further the founding principle of “... any person ... any study.” No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subjected to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual’s genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. 

Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeks job candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We hire based on merit, and encourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply. Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified protected veterans as defined in the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRRA) and qualified individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.

Pay Ranges:

The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:

  • Prior relevant work or industry experience.
  • Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position.
  • Academic Discipline (faculty pay ranges reflects 9-month annual salary)
  • Unique applicable skills.


Application Materials Required:
Submit the following items online at this website to complete your application:
  • Cover letter
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Three references (no actual letters, just names and email addresses help popup)
And anything else requested in the position description.

Further Info:
https://www.cnf.cornell.edu/
email address