Postdoctoral Researcher in the Development of Thin Films and Deposition Processes using Artificial Intelligence and Autonomous Experiments.

Conduct physical vapor deposition experiments using advanced PVD processes such as synchronized HiPIMS. Perform in-depth materials characterization and surface analysis. Apply and improve high-throughput experimental workflows including closed-loop thin-film optimization. Apply AI and Machine Learning for data analysis and modelling. Develop, improve and implement HW/SW concepts and components to automate experiments and enable autonomous experiments.

Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting-edge research, Empa's around 1,100 employees make essential contributions to the well-being of society for a future worth living. Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain. The Coating Technologies Group in Empa's Laboratory for Surface Science & Coating Technologies develops next-generation functional thin films through innovative deposition processes and high-throughput materials screening.

• PhD degree in physics, materials science, chemistry, electrical engineering or a related discipline

• Knowledge of UHV and thin-film technology

• Prior experience in PVD and surface science

• Prior experience with piezoelectric- or ferroelectric nitrides is an advantage

• Knowledge of PVD process development and pulsed sputtering is an advantage

• Proficiency in Python programming

• Interest in lab-automation and working with agentic AI (e.g. Claude Code, Codex)

• Excellent communication skills in English

• Strong academic track-record and publication history