Application Scientist, R&D Semiconductor

Summary:

Rigaku's Semiconductor Metrology Division is seeking an R&D Applications Scientist to drive the development of next-generation applications and bridge the gap between R&D and field support. This role focuses on forward-looking application development, first-of-a-kind solutions, and customer-centric input into product roadmaps, supporting Rigaku's long-term success in emerging and evolving semiconductor markets.

This position will work closely with the R&D, Marketing, and Applications Support teams, with limited but essential travel (~15%) to support strategic customer engagements and demonstration efforts.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and validate first-of-a-kind applications for priority customers and strategic demos, often on pre-release tools or significant hardware/software upgrades.
• Lead the creation and testing of proof-of-concept approaches for immature or future applications, especially in alignment with long-term customer and industry trends (e.g., 3D-DRAM, advanced logic, or metrology for emerging architectures).
• Serve as a bridge between customer-facing Applications team and R&D, gathering and synthesizing input to shape product development roadmaps.
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams to influence and test pre-release features, ensuring readiness for broader deployment.
• Develop and document best-known methods (BKMs) and training materials for new applications and tools, facilitating eventual handoff to the regional Applications team.
• Monitor and assess industry trends, proactively identifying gaps and opportunities in Rigaku's application portfolio.
• Provide targeted, high-impact support for key initial tool installations or beta site deployments, particularly where advanced applications are required.

• Ph.D. or M.S. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of three years of experience in semiconductor metrology or process engineering, with proven contributions to application or technology development.
• Strong understanding of X-ray analytical techniques such as HRXRD, XRR, XRF, and CD-SAXS.
• Familiarity with semiconductor manufacturing trends and roadmap drivers (e.g., HVM challenges, advanced packaging, memory scaling).
• Experience working with pre-commercial or beta tools or leading early-phase application development.
• Strong analytical and experimental design skills; comfortable working with ambiguity in early-stage work.
• Effective communicator who can engage with both technical development teams and customer stakeholders.
• Comfortable managing priorities across multiple stakeholders in a dynamic, collaborative environment.
• U.S. Citizenship or U.S. Permanent Resident status required.
• Willingness to travel up to 15%, including limited international travel.