R&D Engineer Dry Etch

Background 

As the demand for higher memory density continues to grow, advanced 3D memory technologies such as 3D NAND and emerging 3D DRAM are becoming increasingly important. In parallel, hybrid bonding is gaining strong momentum as a key enabler for high-density vertical interconnects in both memory and logic applications. Together, these technologies require highly precise etching of high-aspect-ratio structures with tight profile control and minimal damage. 
Dry etch processes play a critical role in forming deep vias, trenches, and vertical channels in complex 3D architectures. Key challenges include maintaining uniformity in extremely narrow features, ensuring robust process control, and enabling integration across diverse materials and device schemes. 
The Etch group is seeking a motivated R&D engineer to develop advanced dry etch processes for 3D integration applications, including 3D memory and logic technologies. In this role, you will closely collaborate with integration and metrology 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 understanding and optimizing the interaction between dry etch processes and complex 3D integration schemes. 
Your responsibilities include: 

• Designing, executing, and analyzing experiments to develop novel and robust dry etch processes. 
• Driving joint development programs with external partners, focusing on new tool platforms, materials, and metrology approaches. 
• Collaborating cross-functionally with integration, process support, hardware teams, and industrial stakeholders. 
• Communicating research results through internal reviews, partner meetings, and scientific publications. 
• Monitoring industry and technology trends and translating insights into imec’s research roadmap. 
• Working closely with device and integration engineers to anticipate future process requirements. 
• Coordinating non-standard process activities within imec’s 300 mm fab and ensuring smooth transfer to operational teams. 

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 Science or Engineering, preferably in microelectronics, materials science, or a related field. Candidates with a Master’s degree should have at least 3 years of relevant experience.  
• Familiarity with advanced logic, memory, 3D integration, or OIO-related technologies is a strong plus.  
• You are a motivated and proactive professional who enjoys tackling complex technical challenges and delivering high-impact results.  
• You are able to work independently, with a strong sense of ownership and attention to detail and quality.  
• You demonstrate excellent planning and organizational skills and can manage multiple priorities effectively.  
• You are a collaborative team player with strong communication skills and the ability to build effective working relationships across teams and with external partners.  
• Experience in customer or partner interactions is considered an asset.  
• You have strong reporting and presentation skills and can communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical audiences.  
• Given imec’s international environment, fluency in spoken and written English is 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.