R&D Engineer Dry Etch 

Background 

As the demand for higher memory density and performance continues to grow, advanced 3D memory technologies such as 3D NAND and emerging 3D DRAM are becoming increasingly important. 
The fabrication of these devices requires highly precise dry etch processes to create deep high-aspect-ratio features with excellent profile control, selectivity, and uniformity. 
The Dry Etch group is seeking a motivated R&D Engineer to develop next-generation plasma etch solutions for advanced memory applications. In this role, you will focus on enabling critical memory structures through the development of innovative dielectric and conductor etch processes, working closely with integration, metrology, and device teams to support future technology nodes. 

What you will do

As an R&D Etch Process Engineer, you will develop advanced dry etch solutions using imec’s state-of-the-art 300 mm pilot line and world-class characterization infrastructure. You will play a key role in advancing etch technologies for future memory devices. 
Your responsibilities include: 

• Designing, executing, and analyzing experiments to develop advanced plasma etch processes for 3D memory applications. 
• Developing high-aspect-ratio etch solutions for memory structures such as Holes, slit structures, staircase patterns, and capacitor-related architectures. 
• Investigating novel process concepts, materials, and plasma chemistries to address future memory scaling challenges. 
• Collaborating closely with integration, metrology, and device teams to understand process requirements and optimize overall device performance. 
• Driving joint development programs with equipment and material suppliers. 
• Presenting research results through internal reviews, partner meetings, conferences, and scientific publications. 
• Monitoring industry and technology trends and translating insights into imec’s memory technology roadmap. 
• Supporting process transfer and standardization activities within imec’s 300 mm pilot line. 

What we do for you

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 committed to being an inclusive employer and 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. Through imec.academy, 'our corporate university', we actively invest in your development to further your technical and personal growth. 

We are aware that your valuable contribution makes imec a top player in its field. Your energy and commitment are therefore appreciated by means of a market appropriate salary with many fringe benefits. 

Who you are

• You hold a Master's or PhD degree in Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, Microelectronics, or a related field.  
• Experience in plasma processing, dry etch, semiconductor manufacturing, or memory technologies is highly valued.  
• Knowledge of advanced memory technologies, including 3D NAND, DRAM, or emerging memory concepts, is considered a strong asset.  
• You enjoy solving complex technical challenges and are motivated by innovation and technology development.  
• You can work independently while collaborating effectively in multidisciplinary and international teams.  
• You have a strong sense of ownership, analytical thinking, and attention to detail.  
• Experience with scientific data analysis, process characterization, and experimental design is an advantage.  
• Excellent communication and presentation skills in English are essential. 

IMEC and its affiliates will not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. IMEC will consider unsolicited referrals and/or resumes submitted by vendors such as search firms, staffing agencies, professional recruiters, fee-based referral services and recruiting agencies (hereafter “Agency”) to have been referred by the Agency free of charge. IMEC will not pay a fee to any Agency that does not have a prior written agreement with IMEC, validated by its HR department, in place regarding a specific job opening and allowing to submit resumes.