Optical & Imaging Physicist

What we are looking for:

Nova seeks an Experimental Physicist to drive early-stage innovation and explore cutting-edge technologies.

As part of the Advanced Technology Team, you will play a pivotal role in shaping Nova’s future metrology solutions, as well as exploring opportunities in adjacent fields, by leading concept development and feasibility studies across multiple disciplines. This role is ideal for a hands-on physicist with broad technological exposure and a passion for turning novel ideas into practical solutions.

In this role, you will become an integral part of the organization, enabling innovation and advancing technological capabilities by partnering with cross-functional teams. You will work closely with R&D, engineering, and product teams, contributing to Nova’s long-term technology roadmap and future product portfolio.

This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of physics, optics, HW and SW technologies, identifying disruptive approaches and translating them into impactful solutions.

What will you be doing:

• Lead and execute early-stage research projects to explore, validate, and de-risk new technological concepts through hands-on experimentation and simulation
• Design, build, and optimize complex experimental setups, including optical and imaging systems
• Conduct data analysis and develop algorithms using tools such as MATLAB and/or Python
• Identify emerging industry needs and proactively scout innovative and disruptive technologies
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams (R&D, engineering, product) to advance feasibility studies and concept development
• Evaluate and compare diverse technological approaches based on different physical principles
• Present findings, insights, and recommendations to internal stakeholders and influence strategic decisions
• Take ownership of innovation initiatives and contribute to shaping Nova’s future technology roadmap

Requirements:

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Physics or a related engineering discipline
• Strong hands-on experience with complex experimental setups and precision measurements
• Proven experience with data analysis and algorithm development (MATLAB, Python, or similar tools)
• Solid understanding of imaging systems, cameras, sensors, light engines, or optics
• Demonstrated ability to evaluate and compare technologies based on physical principles
• Excellent experimental skills, including designing, building, and optimizing lab systems
• Experience with cameras and optics (e.g., scanning cameras, CMOS sensors, light sources)
• Experience in optical and mechanical system design
• Familiarity with semiconductor manufacturing processes or fab environments
• Knowledge or experience in semiconductor metrology or process control
• Exposure to multidisciplinary R&D environments

That special something you bring in:

• Innovative and curious mindset with the confidence to challenge conventional solutions
• Strong problem-solving skills with a creative, out-of-the-box approach
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence in a matrix environment
• Ability to work independently as well as in multidisciplinary teams
• Proactive, hands-on attitude with strong self-learning capabilities
• Detail- and result-oriented with high ownership and accountability

Get to know us better:

Nova (NASDAQ: NVMI) is a global company and a leading provider of innovative metrology solutions for process control in semiconductor manufacturing.

With a team of ~1200 people in three R&D centers and 27 field offices, we bring insights into the world’s most advanced industry. We leverage multiple technology fields such as physics, optics, chemistry, and algorithms to develop hardware and software solutions that measure almost every advanced computer chip built in the world.

Nova dives deep into dimensions and layers at the atomic level to extract unique insights and provide our customers with crucial decision-making data, managing critical challenges by providing unique, differentiated solutions.

Our outstanding people-focused and innovative culture means every person at Nova has the power to make an impact and significantly redefine what people can achieve through technology.

Join us if you are

A dreamer and brilliant high aimer who sees the impossible as the starting point and loves working in a multidisciplinary global team to create innovative breakthroughs.

If you need assistance due to a disability, you may contact us at [email protected]