Postdoctoral Researcher in Data-driven X-ray Nanoimaging for Semiconductor Metrology

This postdoctoral researcher position focuses on developing data-driven X-ray nanoimaging methods for semiconductor metrology, specifically detecting static structural defects by leveraging prior knowledge of device design to minimize X-ray measurements. Key responsibilities include algorithm development, demonstration at synchrotron experiments, and working with existing datasets and reconstruction pipelines. Requirements include a PhD in a related field, strong Python programming and GPU processing skills, and experience with inverse problems and 3D reconstruction.

• Our pipeline reconstructs each projection from thousands of diffraction patterns, followed by volume reconstruction from projections measured at many rotation angles.
• You will develop an acquisition and reconstruction framework that uses the known geometry, composition, and layout regularity of semiconductor devices as prior information to detect deeply buried defects from the smallest possible number of X-ray measurements.
• These are two inverse problems, each with its own sampling requirements.

• PhD in physics, engineering, computer science, or a related field.
• Experience with inverse problems and 3D reconstruction methods for tomography, laminography, or a closely related modality.
• Strong scientific programming in Python and experience with GPU processing of large-scale datasets.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
• We also value applications from people with the following experience (or similar):
• Coherent diffractive imaging, especially ptychography.
• Sparse sensing, optimization, or Bayesian experimental design.
• Machine learning for imaging.
• Synchrotron experiment experience.
• Semiconductor devices or metrology.
• Physically, you and the team will be based at the newly upgraded Swiss Light Source (SLS) synchrotron located at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI).
• You will be a core member of the SNSF Starting Grant project NEXUS-3D, working at the intersection of applied physics, high-performance computing, and semiconductor metrology.
• The successful candidate will have the opportunity to develop their own independent research direction and work alongside leading synchrotron scientists and computational X-ray imaging experts.
• You will receive close mentorship and support for professional development such as attending summer schools, international conferences and conducting experiments at synchrotrons around the world.
• Only applications submitted through the online platform are considered. You are asked to supply a single pdf file containing:
• A brief cover letter describing your research background and fit for this position (max 2 pages).
• A research statement highlighting your past research achievements, current interests, and potential research directions for this project (max 3 pages).
• Contact details for 3 referees.
• We offer a fully funded postdoctoral position for two years (with a possibility of an extension) in a unique dual environment.
• Contracts are issued for one year and renewable annually according to standard EPFL procedures.