About the role#
As a Process Simulation Engineering Intern, you will join the Office of the CTO to develop a virtual twin of plasma etch processes. You will build physics-based models and create fast machine-learning surrogates to connect tool settings to predicted feature profiles. Your work supports data-driven process development for our etch products.
What you'll do#
- Build and refine models of ion and neutral species interactions with the wafer, including reaction probabilities and ion energy effects.
- Calibrate model parameters using measured profiles from SEM/TEM images.
- Design simulation experiments, such as parameter sweeps, to generate training data.
- Build and validate fast surrogate models of physics simulations, ensuring accuracy and quantifying uncertainty.
- Use surrogate models to explore process settings and optimize conditions.
- Write Python tools to automate simulation runs, process data, and generate plots.
- Document your workflow and present your results.
What you'll need#
- Currently pursuing an MS or PhD in chemical engineering, physics, materials science, chemistry, or a related field.
- Strong Python skills with hands-on experience building models in PyTorch, JAX, or TensorFlow.
- Background in reaction kinetics, transport phenomena, or surface/plasma science.
- Experience building machine-learning or regression models.
- Strong analytical and communication skills with the ability to work in a team.
- Preferred: Coursework or research in plasma physics or plasma-surface interactions.
- Preferred: Experience with surrogate modeling methods like Gaussian processes, neural networks, or polynomial chaos.
- Preferred: Experience with GPyTorch/BoTorch, physics-informed neural networks, or uncertainty quantification.
- Preferred: Experience with design of experiments, sensitivity analysis, Bayesian calibration, or optimization.
- Preferred: Experience with physics-based simulation tools, such as finite element, Monte Carlo, or profile simulators.
- Preferred: Familiarity with semiconductor etch processes or SEM/TEM image analysis.
Location & details#
- This internship is based in Fremont, California.
- This is an on-site flex role, requiring you to be in the office at least 3 days per week.
- The position is for Summer 2027.
- This is a paid, full-time internship.
About Lam Research
Lam Research manufactures equipment for the semiconductor industry. Founded in 1980, the company produces tools used in wafer processing and fabrication technology. It is a public company based in Fremont, California. The organization employs over 10,000 people.
How to get in at Lam Research
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