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Research Associate, Thin Films

Periodic Labs· Science
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Menlo Park, CA$180k - $225kFull-timePosted 7mo ago

About the role

Hands-on role to run advanced thin-film deposition and nanofabrication, generate experimental data, and collaborate with AI and materials teams to develop and validate thin-film processes for AI-driven materials discovery. 12-month fixed-term with potential to convert to full-time; initial work at external partner facilities before Periodic’s in-house lab is commissioned.

Responsibilities

  • As a process module owner, you will execute thin-film deposition and related nanofabrication processes.
  • Prepare substrates, manage process flows, and maintain detailed experimental records that meet the metadata and data quality standards for AI training.
  • Perform structural and functional thin-film characterization: XRD/XRR for structure and thickness, ellipsometry and profilometry for film properties, SEM/EDX for morphology and composition, and 4-point probe and basic transport measurements for electrical properties.
  • Monitor in-situ metrology during deposition to ensure high quality film growth.
  • Collaborate with the AI and materials science teams to help define which deposition parameters to vary, interpreting film characterization results in context of what the AI predicts, and flagging discrepancies that may indicate new physics or synthesis insights.
  • Troubleshoot process issues and iterate quickly on recipes under guidance from senior team members. Escalate anomalies and document failures and fixes for institutional knowledge.

Qualifications

  • Currently pursuing or recently completed a PhD (or advanced graduate degree) in materials science, physics, chemistry, or a related field.

Skills

Required:Thin-film deposition techniquesSubstrate preparation and chamber managementThin-film characterizationDocumentation and data quality
Last updated Sep 23, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

About Periodic Labs

From bits to atoms.

Periodic Labs is an artificial intelligence research company pioneering the next leap in scientific discovery. We operate at the intersection of machine learning and scientific experimentation under the thesis that that true understanding of the universe is only possible by interacting and experimenting on it.

artificial intelligencescientific discoverymachine learningscientific experimentation
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