Applications Research Scientist (AFM) – Semiconductor Metrology

Senior Applications Scientist (AFM) – Semiconductor Metrology£46,855 – £65,343 + EMI Share Options + Private HealthcareAbingdon, Oxfordshire | Atomic Force Microscopy | Nanometrology | Semiconductor TechnologyHelp Shape the Future of Semiconductor ManufacturingHow do you measure features that are too small to see with conventional techniques?At Infinitesima, we're developing breakthrough 3D nanometrology technology that enables semiconductor manufacturers to measure and understand structures at atomic-scale resolution. Backed by leading global investors, including Applied Ventures, we're a team of over 100 scientists, engineers and innovators tackling one of the most complex challenges in advanced semiconductor manufacturing.We're now looking for an experienced Applications Scientist with strong Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) expertise to join our growing Research team.This is a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of cutting-edge instrumentation, nanotechnology and semiconductor innovation, helping transform research concepts into commercially valuable solutions.What's in it for you?Salary of £46,855 – £65,343 depending on experienceEMI share option schemePrivate healthcareDeath in service benefitJoin a fast-growing, venture-backed technology companyWork with world-leading experts in nanoscale metrology and semiconductor technologyThe OpportunityThis isn't a traditional laboratory research role.You'll act as the bridge between advanced instrumentation, customer applications and product development, using your AFM expertise to understand real-world measurement challenges and drive the evolution of next-generation technologies.Working within our Research team, you'll be responsible for evaluating new capabilities, characterising complex nanostructures, analysing performance data, and providing critical insight that shapes future product direction.You'll enjoy a high degree of autonomy, technical variety and the opportunity to influence both technology development and commercial applications.What You'll Be DoingCharacterising nanoscale semiconductor structures using advanced metrology techniquesApplying AFM expertise to assess current and next-generation system capabilitiesTesting, validating and benchmarking prototype technologiesAnalysing imaging and performance data to generate meaningful insightsDeveloping experimental workflows and measurement methodologiesInvestigating system behaviour and identifying performance improvementsWorking closely with Research, Engineering, Manufacturing and Service teamsContributing to product development decisions through evidence-based recommendationsSupporting the transition of innovative concepts into practical semiconductor applicationsWhat We're Looking ForEssential ExperienceConsiderable hands-on experience with Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)Experience using advanced scientific or engineering instrumentationNanometrology, nanoscale characterisation or surface analysis expertiseInstrument testing, evaluation and validationExperimental data analysis and interpretationPython, MATLAB or similar tools for data analysisProven ability to solve complex technical problems through experimentation and analysisDesirable ExperienceSemiconductor process or characterisation experienceScanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)Focused Ion Beam (FIB)Profilometry or related metrology techniquesExperience working with prototype or pre-commercial instrumentationAlgorithm development or advanced data processingEducationBSc, BEng, MSc or equivalent experience in Physics, Engineering, Materials Science or a related scientific disciplineWhy Join Infinitesima?You'll join a company where your work directly influences the future of advanced semiconductor manufacturing.Rather than supporting established products, you'll help define what comes next—working with breakthrough technology, solving genuinely challenging measurement problems, and collaborating with some of the brightest minds in nanometrology.If you're passionate about Atomic Force Microscopy, nanoscale characterisation and pushing the limits of what's measurable, we'd love to hear from you.Our strength lies in the varied perspectives that come from different cultures, experiences, and identities. We believe that true innovation is fuelled by collaboration, locally and globally. We strive to foster an environment where everyone can contribute meaningfully and thrive. If you require adjustments to take part in the recruitment process, please let us know, we’ll do our best to support you.Note to recruitment agencies: Infinitesima Ltd only works with approved agencies and does not accept unsolicited agency CVs. Please do not submit candidate details in response to this advert, or to any Infinitesima Ltd employees. Infinitesima Ltd is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited CVs.A note on how we run interviews:We use AI only to transcribe our interviews so we can focus fully on you instead of scribbling notes. The AI does not take part in any decision making at any stage. All hiring decisions are made by real humans based on the conversation we have with you.Location and work pattern:All of our new UK team members are asked to work on site here at Abingdon during their first three months with us. We offer flexible, hybrid working where possible upon completion of probation.