Nanofabrication Intern

About the role#

Periodic Labs is seeking a Nanofabrication Intern to support the development of AI models that connect materials discovery with scalable, device-relevant form factors. You will contribute to the buildout of internal thin-film and nanofabrication capabilities by executing experimental processes and generating high-quality data to feed into AI training pipelines. This role involves working at the intersection of experimental science and computational discovery.

What you'll do#

• Execute hands-on nanofabrication processes for silicon-based microelectronic, photonic, MEMS, or optical devices, including lithography, thin-film deposition, etch, substrate preparation, and related cleanroom workflows.
• Support lithography processes such as spin coating, baking, mask alignment, exposure, development, lift-off, and optical inspection.
• Operate or assist with thin-film deposition techniques such as sputtering, evaporation, PVD, PLD, ALD, or PECVD.
• Run or support etch processes including wet etching, plasma etching, RIE, or ICP-RIE.
• Prepare substrates, manage process flows, track samples, and maintain detailed experimental records that meet metadata and data quality standards for AI training.
• Perform characterization using tools such as profilometry, ellipsometry, SEM, optical microscopy, XRD/XRR, or 4-point probe.
• Collaborate with senior scientists and engineers to troubleshoot process issues, identify failure modes, and iterate on fabrication workflows.

What you'll need#

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in electrical engineering, materials science, applied physics, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, chemistry, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience in a university cleanroom, nanofabrication facility, semiconductor lab, photonics lab, MEMS lab, or related research environment.
• Practical exposure to lithography, deposition, and etch processes, with an understanding of how these steps connect in a device fabrication flow.
• Ability to work independently in shared research facilities while following rigorous safety protocols.
• Strong documentation habits and attention to detail regarding experimental records.

Location & details#

• Location: Menlo Park, California.
• Term: Summer 2026.
• Modality: This is a full-time, on-site position.
• Benefits: The role is paid and visa sponsorship is available.