Working Student for the recycling of polishing suspensions used in chemical mechanical polishing

Developing innovative technology solutions and bringing them to application - that is our goal at the Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems IPMS. With our expertise in the development of photonic microsystems, related technologies including nanoelectronics and wireless communication solutions, we create - in flexible and interdisciplinary teams - technologies for innovative products in a wide range of markets such as automotive, industrial and aerospace.

Microchips can be found all around us in almost every electronic device and appliance. Chemical Mechanical Polishing (CMP) is a necessary process in chip manufacturing and responsible for an estimated 40% of water consumption in a chip factory while using large volumes of polishing slurries which contain oxide nanoparticles. The production of these particles is very energy-intensive, and they end up in landfills after being used only once.

A promising method is to recycle the abrasive particles via ultrafiltration. The master thesis will investigate how particle properties are modified by the recycling process and relate them to polishing results on test wafers. It will support an ongoing doctoral thesis researching recycling of different slurries and its effects on CMP performance. These findings will improve the scientific understanding of slurry recycling and its applicability in high volume manufacturing of microchips to reduce the environmental impact of CMP. 
 

What you will do

• Characterizing nanoparticle suspensions at different stages of recycling
• Analysis of chemical properties as well as particle size, zeta potential and particle morphology
• Planning polishing experiments for 300 mm test wafers on an industrial polishing tool
• Comparing polishing results of different particle suspensions via ellipsometry and profilometry and relating them to the properties of the used slurry/particle
• Working in a clean room

The tasks can also be carried out as part of an internship or as a topic for a bachelor's, diploma or master's thesis.

What you bring to the table

•   Studies in the field of Material Science, Chemistry, Nanotechnology, Physics, Biology or a related field

• Preferably experience with one or more of the following

  • Practical wet chemistry or lab experience
  • Characterization of Nanoparticles
  • Surface/Thin-Film Characterization

  • Polishing, specifically Chemical Mechanical Polishing

  • Surface chemistry, specifically SiO2, Si3N4, Si

• Open communication about ideas, questions and problems as well as a clean and structured working method

• Highly motivated and able to work independently
• Interest in semiconductor technology and industrial applications
• Very good English (C1) and/or German (C1) conversational skills in speech and writing

What you can expect

We are convinced that appreciation and trust are the basis for satisfaction and motivation. We create a work-life-balance through flexible working time models and the possibility of mobile working, because creative and innovative ideas can arise anywhere. We also attach great importance to intensive induction training and an open and collegial working environment. Whether sports, music or team events - we offer a wide range of opportunities to pursue our own passions together and strengthen our team spirit.

The weekly working time is a maximum of 20 hours and is to be coordinated flexibly. The position is initially limited for 1 years. A long-term collaboration is strived. We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Remuneration according to the general works agreement for employing assistant staff.

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future. 

Interested? Apply online now. We look forward to getting to know you!

Contact

Mrs. Sabrina Weimert
Human Resources
Phone: +49 (0)351 8823 415

Mr. Max Constantin Klotzsche
Specialty Department
Phone: +49 (0)351 2607 3246

Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems IPMS 

www.ipms.fraunhofer.de 

Requisition Number: 78123