Postdoctoral Fellow / Process Engineer for Metal-Assisted Chemical Etching ETH Zürich in Switzerland

ETH Zurich is recruiting a Postdoctoral Fellow / Process Engineer for metal assisted chemical etching within the X-ray Imaging Professorship. The position sits at the intersection of advanced micro- and nanofabrication, X-ray optics, and translational imaging research, with a strong focus on improving the fabrication of high-aspect-ratio silicon microstructures for next-generation X-ray imaging applications.

The successful candidate will join the SNSF-funded ABSOLUTE project, which develops an innovative catalyst concept for defect control in metal-assisted chemical etching (MacEtch) of silicon. The project addresses key challenges in process reliability, scalability, defect reduction, and manufacturing quality, with direct relevance to the clinical translation of grating-based X-ray interferometry. Work will be carried out in a multidisciplinary environment in collaboration with academic and industrial partners, under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Marco Stampanoni and Dr. Lucia Romano, with project-related supervision at the Paul Scherrer Institute.

The role is highly practical and research-intensive. Responsibilities include expanding MacEtch testing capabilities across different feature sizes and aspect ratios; investigating defect formation mechanisms; optimizing process parameters; assessing scalability; and contributing to robust fabrication workflows for complex silicon microstructures. The researcher will fabricate and process 4-inch silicon wafers using UV photolithography, thin-film deposition, thermal treatments, and MacEtch, and will perform characterization using optical microscopy, SEM, and profilometry. Additional tasks include documenting experiments carefully, analyzing data, preparing technical reports, contributing to deliverables, presenting at conferences and workshops, and publishing results in high-impact journals.

Applicants should hold a PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering, or a closely related field. Strong cleanroom experience and practical knowledge of semiconductor processing are required, along with hands-on expertise in photolithography and SEM. Experience with silicon etching and MEMS fabrication is especially desirable. The post calls for strong analytical skills, a collaborative mindset, excellent communication in English, and the ability to work effectively in a project-driven, multidisciplinary setting. Willingness to travel within Europe for up to 20% of working time is also expected.

The appointment is initially for one year, with the possibility of extension. ETH Zurich emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation, diversity, sustainability, and a supportive working environment with on-the-job training and professional development opportunities. The application must be submitted via ETH Zurich's online portal, and applicants should include a motivation letter, CV, publication list, transcripts, and at least two reference letters. Applications by email or post will not be considered.