Robin Ras

This postdoctoral project sits at the intersection of semiconductor physics, thin-film metrology, and prototype instrumentation for the semiconductor industry. It is part of the ATOMEL initiative, a Business Finland Research-to-Business commercialization project aimed at turning an academic innovation in scanning-probe-based thin-film characterization and electrical metrology into a new deep-tech venture. The successful researcher will take primary scientific and experimental ownership of the semiconductor electrical characterization strategy, physical modeling, and benchmark validation. The work centers on ultrathin films and semiconductor structures, with a strong emphasis on extracting reliable local electrical and dielectric properties that conventional metrology methods struggle to resolve at these scales. The role is based in the Department of Applied Physics at Aalto University and is hosted within the Soft Matter and Wetting Group under Prof. Robin Ras, with project leadership by Dr. Ali Afzalifar. The position is embedded in a small, highly focused team that also includes an instrumentation engineer and a business developer, and it benefits from Aalto’s access to OtaNano and Micronova cleanroom and characterization facilities. Research activities include designing and executing electrical measurements, building physical and electrostatic models, interpreting dielectric and transport data, preparing representative semiconductor test structures, and validating the prototype system against established metrology standards. The project also involves close interaction between the measurement physics and the instrument-development side, with opportunities to engage in validation with industrial semiconductor partners. The environment is strongly oriented toward translation and commercialization, with mentoring from Aalto Innovation Services and Aalto Startup Center and the possibility of joining the future spin-out company after the project.

Aalto University is recruiting two R&D Engineer/Postdoc positions for the Business Finland-funded ATOMEL Research-to-Business project. The work is hosted in the Soft Matter and Wetting Group in the Department of Applied Physics and is led by Dr. Ali Afzalifar with guidance from Prof. Robin Ras . The project focuses on developing a new metrology technology for ultra-thin film characterization , with a strong emphasis on semiconductor applications . The team will work on scanning probe instrumentation, control systems, automation, nano-positioning, quartz resonators, and advanced electrical characterization such as I-V and C-V measurements. One role is centered on SPM instrumentation and control systems ; the other focuses on semiconductor device physics and thin-film metrology . This is a highly applied, industry-facing opportunity for candidates with backgrounds in physics, electrical engineering, materials science, mechatronics, mechanics, nanoelectronics, or microelectronics . The post explicitly seeks people with hands-on hardware experience, real-time control and embedded/software skills, or deep semiconductor characterization expertise. English fluency is expected; Finnish is a plus. The team also values an entrepreneurial mindset, since the project is intended to prepare for commercialization and may lead to a startup. The positions are full-time and initially funded for 18 months , with the possibility of extension. Aalto University states that the salary depends on experience and that occupational healthcare is included. The application deadline is 2026-06-30 . To apply, submit a single PDF in English through Aalto University’s recruitment system. The application should include a motivation letter, CV with references and publications if available, and a copy of the highest degree certificate with transcripts and translations if needed.