Process Engineer Co‑op (PhD) – 2026/27 – Gloucester, MA

About the role

Applied Materials is seeking a PhD‑level Process Engineer co‑op for the 2026‑2027 academic year at its Gloucester, MA R&D site. The role supports cutting‑edge semiconductor process development and materials research.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct research on novel semiconductor patterning and material‑modification processes for future device architectures.
• Perform thin‑film characterization using FTIR, Raman, XPS, XRR, ellipsometry, SEM, and TEM.
• Design and execute experiments with Design of Experiments (DOE) methodology and analyze data using Python, MATLAB, and JMP.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams including lithography, etch, deposition, computational modeling, and customer application groups.
• Present technical findings to internal stakeholders and contribute to patents and conference presentations.

Required profile

• Currently enrolled in a PhD program in Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, or Physics.
• Available to work full‑time on‑site for a 6–9 month co‑op term.
• Research experience in semiconductor processing, thin‑film materials, plasma science, or advanced characterization techniques.
• Proficiency in scientific programming and data analysis using Python, MATLAB, or similar tools.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with the ability to design and execute independent investigations.
• Comfortable working in shared research facilities, adhering to cleanroom protocols and learning new equipment quickly.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for presenting results to multidisciplinary teams.

Required skills

• FTIR spectroscopy
• Raman spectroscopy
• X‑ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS)
• X‑ray reflectometry (XRR)
• Ellipsometry
• Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)
• Transmission electron microscopy (TEM)
• Design of Experiments (DOE) methodology
• Python programming
• MATLAB
• JMP data analysis

What we offer

• Location in Gloucester, MA with a supportive work culture.
• Comprehensive health, wellbeing, and professional‑development programs.
• Competitive hourly compensation ranging from $47 to $50.
• Eligibility for bonus and stock‑award programs where applicable.
• Opportunities to present research at conferences and contribute to patents.