2026-2027 Process Engineer Co-op - Doctorate (Gloucester, MA)
About The Position
Applied Materials is the global leader in materials science and engineering solutions that are at the foundation of virtually every new semiconductor chip and advanced display in the world. The equipment that we create and service is essential to advancing AI and accelerating the commercialization of next-generation semiconductor chips. Join us and push the boundaries of materials science and engineering in a company at the foundation of the electronics industry. The work we do together advances the world’s technology. In the R&D Group, we are focused on developing next-generation processes and materials to enable future semiconductor technology nodes. Our team combines experimental process development, advanced metrology, and computational modeling to solve critical challenges in next generation lithography and materials modification processes for advanced nanofabrication and future device architectures. We work at the intersection of materials science, plasma physics, and surface engineering to accelerate innovation from concept through feasibility testing and customer application development.
Requirements
- Currently pursuing a PhD in Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, or Physics.
- Must be currently enrolled in a PhD program and available to work full-time for a 6–9 month internship/co-op assignment.
- 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 computational tools.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to independently design and execute technical investigations.
- Comfortable working in shared research facilities, adhering to cleanroom protocols, and quickly learning new equipment/processes/procedures.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively present technical findings across multidisciplinary teams.
Nice To Haves
- Background in semiconductor processing technologies, including ion implantation, lithography, reactive-ion etch (RIE), chemical vapor deposition (CVD/PECVD), atomic layer deposition (ALD), and other semiconductor fabrication methods.
- Strong record of research accomplishments demonstrated through publications, conference presentations, patents, or other scholarly contributions.
- Candidates from diverse backgrounds, with fresh perspectives, and with a passion for semiconductor R&D are strongly encouraged to apply!
Responsibilities
- Conduct research and support novel semiconductor processes, focusing on patterning and material modification, for future device architectures.
- Perform thin-film characterization using FTIR, Raman, XPS, XRR, ellipsometry, SEM, TEM, and related techniques.
- Design and execute experiments using Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies and analyze data using advanced data analytics tools (Python, MATLAB & JMP).
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams including lithography, etch, deposition, materials science, computational modeling, and customer application groups.
- Present technical findings to internal stakeholders, with opportunities to contribute to patents and conference presentation.
- Available for a 6 to 9 month co-op term on-site at our Gloucester location
- Multiple start dates available between September and November 2026, with the greatest need for September starts
Benefits
- supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career
- comprehensive benefits package
- participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
