[NanoIC] Revealing the Structure-Composition Role on Ultrafast Carrier Dynamics in Advanced Logic and Memory Devices

The microelectronics that power the electronic devices in our daily lives are enabled by billions of complex, nanostructured arrays of transistors that perform memory and logic operations. In order to enable smaller, faster, more powerful and more efficient devices, the global semiconductor industry is introducing complex, heterogeneous nanosheet (NS)-based transistors such as gate-all-around (GAA) and complementary field effect transistors (CFET). These NS structures and devices have uniquely complex structure (size, shape, layout, etc.) and composition (material heterogeneity, doping, strain etc.), and the structure-composition relationships present new challenges in understanding how these parameters relate to and determine electrical performance. Fundamentally, electrical performance of NS-devices is governed by the excitation and transport of charge carriers, which occur on ultrafast time scales (femto-to-pico-to nanosecond). Observing the real-time dynamics of charge carriers in NS-based devices, and relating the dynamical phenomenon to composition-structure relationships, remains a grand scientific challenge that if solved would improve our understanding of NS-device physics and pave the way for advanced characterization of the next generation of compute and store nanoelectronics.

          The objective of this PhD project is to develop and deploy time-resolved reflectance spectroscopy in the near-to-mid infrared (IR) to characterize the ultrafast (femto-pico-nano second) dynamics of electrical carriers in advanced NS-devices, with the goal of linking the scattering and energy transfer mechanisms to their emergent electrical properties. The measured dynamical properties will be related to the electrical properties via electrical tests on the same NS devices, supported by advanced structural and material characterization. This ambitious project will be supported by imec’s advanced LAB and FAB infrastructure, which is composed of advanced production, metrology, and material characterization of advanced semiconductor devices. In particular, unique toolsets such as imec’s AttoLab, an ultrafast spectroscopic and materials characterization lab, will be central to measuring the ultrafast dynamics in NS devices. The breakthrough spectroscopic methods developed in this project will be supported by simulations of the dynamic optical response, as well as 2D/3D models of charge carrier migration to interpret the experimental data. You will work closely with experts in materials characterization, metrology, device fabrication and characterization, and modelling to provide a wholistic understanding of ultrafast carrier dynamics on NS device performance.

As a PhD candidate within imec's Ångström Patterning Department, you will,

• Develop and execute time-resolved spectroscopic reflectance measurements across a large wavelength range; from the ultraviolet to the visible and near- and mid-infrared.
• Conduct a comprehensive FAB- and LAB-based characterization of advanced NS structures and devices produced in imec’s pilot lines.
• Develop a strong technical skillset for diverse characterization techniques (e.g., AFM, TEM, reflectance spectroscopy, etc.).
• Correlate structural, compositional, and electrical properties to ultrafast carrier dynamics.
• Critically analyze spectroscopic and imaging data with respect to material and process variation.
• Presenting your findings at conferences, internal meetings, and gaining exposure to key players in the global semiconductor community.
• Assist in teaching labs sessions and/or monitoring examinations of relevant courses at the bachelor’s and master’s level at KU Leuven (<5% of total time).

What We Offer

We offer you the opportunity to join one of the world’s premier research centers in nanotechnology at its headquarters in Leuven, Belgium. With your talent, passion and expertise, you’ll become part of a team that makes the impossible possible. Together, we shape the technology that will determine the society of tomorrow.

We are aware that your valuable contribution makes imec a top player in its field. Your energy and commitment are therefore appreciated by facilitating your further career development:

• Imec values a cooperative spirit. What does it mean for you? You can easily collaborate across teams and fields with our 6000+ colleagues. Thus, directly learn from the many leading experts in nanotechnology, metrology, system architecture, etc. and accelerate your research.
• Extensive support infrastructure (automated measurement department, leading edge metrology department, public funding department, etc.) that will allow you to concentrate on your research.
• Imec is the crossroad where all semiconductor players meet to tackle fundamental research questions and technology bottlenecks. This allows you to build a unique network within academia and industry that you will be able to leverage for any future career.
• Belgium and imec value family and support young researchers extensively (childcare for the youngest, flexible working hours understanding that family affairs are of high importance).
• Through imec.academy, 'our corporate university', we actively invest in your development to further your technical and personal growth.
• We are proud of our open, multicultural, and informal working environment with ample possibilities to take initiative and show responsibility. We commit to supporting and guiding you in this process, not only with words but also with tangible actions.
  
   

Who You Are

• You have (or will soon obtain) a Master’s degree in chemistry, physics, material science, nanoscience, or chemical engineering. A focus on (time-resolved) spectroscopy of semiconductors or devices is a plus.
• Prior research in spectroscopy, optics, solid state physics, materials science, and/or nanoelectronic devices.
• Proficiency in scientific programming (Python, Matlab, C, etc.).
• Excellent lab skills with attention to detail and safety protocols.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with a knack for innovative thinking.
• Proficient in data analysis and interpretation.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented setting.
• You are creative, result-driven, and can meet deadlines with quality output.
• You are a clear and effective communicator. Strong language skills in English are required for imec’s diverse working environment.