Physics student

Company Overview

KLA is a global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. Virtually every electronic device in the world is produced using our technologies. No laptop, smartphone, wearable device, voice-controlled gadget, flexible screen, VR device or smart car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays. The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with inspiration, research and development. KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers work together with the world’s leading technology providers to accelerate the delivery of tomorrow’s electronic devices. Life here is exciting and our teams thrive on tackling really hard problems. There is never a dull moment with us.

Job Description/Preferred Qualifications

Student Researcher – Physics Group, ERC

In this role, you will join the Physics Group within KLA’s Central Engineering Group, which is responsible for defining, researching, and enabling the physical principles and measurement concepts underlying KLA’s future metrology and inspection technologies.

The group operates at the interface between fundamental physics and advanced engineering, addressing complex challenges in optical metrology, imaging, and measurement of advanced semiconductor structures. The work involves translating physical insight into experimentally validated concepts that can later be integrated into product‑level solutions.

As a student researcher, you will contribute to hands‑on experimental research in areas such as optical and laser‑based measurement systems, advanced imaging techniques, and physics‑based data analysis. The role includes designing and running experiments, developing analysis and simulation tools, and investigating new approaches to 3D and phase‑sensitive measurements. You will work closely with physicists and engineers, gaining exposure to real industrial constraints while maintaining strong scientific rigor.

This position is intended for a highly motivated MSc/PhD student with a strong physics background, curiosity for complex physical systems, and a desire to contribute meaningfully to next‑generation metrology technologies in an industrial research environment.

Minimum Qualifications

• MSc or PhD student (from 2nd year onward) in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a closely related field, at a recognized university
• Proven hands‑on experience in an optics laboratory, including work as a research assistant, teaching assistant, or lab instructor
• Strong programming and data analysis skills using MATLAB and/or Python
  
  

Advantages

• Experience with multi‑disciplinary laboratory equipment (optical, electro‑optical, mechanical, or electronic systems)
• Familiarity with 3D imaging, phase imaging, interferometry, or related metrology techniques
  
  

We offer a competitive, family friendly total rewards package. We design our programs to reflect our commitment to an inclusive environment, while ensuring we provide benefits that meet the diverse needs of our employees.

KLA is proud to be an equal opportunity employer

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