Research Scientist - Optical Metrology

About the role

KLA, a global leader in electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem, is looking for a Research Scientist to join its Advanced Development group in Migdal Ha-emek. The role sits within the Optical Metrology Division, which builds hardware and software metrology and inspection products used by chipmakers worldwide. The position is focused on proposing novel concepts, designing and running optical experiments and bridging theory and experiment.

Key responsibilities

• Propose novel concepts and develop creative solutions to challenging problems in optical metrology
• Design, build and run complex optical experiments in the lab to prove concepts
• Derive theoretical models, validate them experimentally and iterate between theory and experiment
• Collect, analyse and interpret data rigorously
• Formulate conclusions and recommendations to guide next-generation products and the roadmap
• Collaborate closely within the team and across functions (algorithms, systems, hardware)

Required profile

• PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering or a related field, with a strong experimental thesis
• 5+ years of research experience in industry or academia (including post-doc); 8+ years is an advantage
• Deep theoretical knowledge of optics and the physics of light-matter interaction
• Hands-on experimental track record: designing and building optical setups and running complex experiments
• Ability to close the loop from model to measurement to refinement
• Scientific record of peer-reviewed publications and/or patents
• Excellent written and verbal scientific communication
• Independent, creative thinker with strong scientific rigor, comfortable in a multidisciplinary R&D environment

Required skills

• Strong simulation and modeling skills supporting experimental design and analysis
• High-precision optical measurement background is an advantage
• Experience moving research concepts from lab demonstration toward product-level maturity is an advantage

The company offers a competitive, family-friendly total rewards package and states it is an equal opportunity employer.