Process Scientist (m/f/x) - Ion Trap Technology

What to expect

The department Integration of Micro- and Nanosystems (QT-IMN) develops technologies for the implementation and miniaturization of quantum systems. Particular attention is paid to the challenging requirements in aerospace applications.

At the Innovation Centre Hamburg, quantum computers using ion trap technology are being developed in a cleanroom laboratory provided by the DLR, in collaboration between industry and the DLR. The department QT-IMN manages the processes in the cleanroom laboratory on behalf of the DLR’s Quantum Computing Initiative. In addition to providing the equipment, QT-IMN develops comprehensive process chains and makes these available for further development by companies or for internal research projects. Besides measures for quality assurance and process stability this also includes user support.

We are looking for a committed individual to establish and operate a microfabrication process chain for the production of planar surface traps for ion traps – a key component of modern quantum computers and quantum sensors. This requires the development of complex manufacturing processes and the coordination and qualification of more than 40 individual, highly specialized processes. This necessitates a comprehensive analysis of the complex requirements and careful planning to achieve the desired process characteristics for the fabrication of the ion traps. The role combines high-precision cleanroom technology with the requirements of cryogenic quantum systems: You will translate externally supplied trap designs into a fully qualified, documented and reproducible manufacturing process chain, developing both specialised processes and the base and interconnect solutions for rapid testing in the cryogenic vacuum chamber. Professional engineering and structured quality management are just as essential as a spirit of innovation and experimental skills.

Your tasks

• You will independently develop and qualify a complete cleanroom process chain for the manufacture of planar ion traps – from substrate preparation through lithography, metallization and etching processes to final release.
• You will translate externally supplied trap designs into production-ready process routes, identify critical process steps and develop specialized processes specifically for cryogenic vacuum applications.
• You will design and qualify test structures for in-process quality control and establish a structured quality management system with binding approval procedures, FMEA and complete traceability.
• You will develop a cryogenic and vacuum-compatible socket and interconnect solution for rapid electrical connection of the traps for functional testing in the cryogenic vacuum chamber.
• You will establish a reproducible test process for the functional verification of completed traps and systematically evaluate electrical and mechanical characterization data for process optimization.
• You will work closely with the external design partner, communicate manufacturing constraints and drive design iterations based on experimental findings.
• You will document the entire process chain in accordance with professional engineering standards, thereby creating a long-term, auditable manufacturing infrastructure for the research group.

Your profile

• Completed scientific university degree (Master/Diploma Uni) in the natural sciences (e.g. physics, chemistry) or engineering (e.g. microsystems technology, electrical engineering, chemical engineering, materials science, nanotechnology) or other degree programs relevant to the position
• Several years of proven experience in the process development and integration of microfabrication processes
• Proven practical experience in at least five of the following cleanroom process areas: lithography, wet chemical processing, dry etching (RIE/ICP), physical vapor deposition (PVD), chemical vapor deposition (CVD), electroplating, chemical mechanical polishing (CMP), metrology, assembly and interconnection technology (AVT/wire bonding)
• Experience in the development and qualification of complete process integrations: independent execution from concept through process tuning to the documented approval of a manufacturing route
• Proven experience in quality management and professional process engineering: structured documentation, FMEA, change management and approval procedures; high awareness of contamination risks and equipment protection in shared cleanroom environments
• Experience in the development of assembly and interconnection solutions (AVT) for use in demanding environmental conditions, ideally cryogenic or vacuum applications
• Knowledge of quantum technology or ion trap systems, as well as a basic understanding of the electrical and geometric requirements for microstructured electrode components, would be an advantage
• Ability to manage complex, interdisciplinary development projects independently, as well as a willingness to collaborate closely with external design partners and to supervise students

Remuneration is up to the German TVöD 13 depending on qualifications and assigned tasks.