Physicist/Scientist III, Plasma Process Modelling and ML (PhD New Grad) at Applied Materials, Santa Clara
Job Description
Applied Materials is hiring a PhD physicist for semiconductor plasma modelling with machine learning. The role models plasma etching, deposition and atomic layer etching. It combines physics-based simulation with ML models trained on large HPC datasets. It is part of the company’s 2027 summer new-graduate cohort in Santa Clara, California.
At a glance
- Position: New College Grad – Physicist/Scientist III – PhD (2027 Summer Cohort), requisition R2627969
- Where: Santa Clara, California, USA
- Pay: $138,000 to $190,000 a year
- Travel: About 10% of the time; relocation support available
- Apply: 30 October 2026 (the posting may close early)
What the plasma modelling physicist does
- Build and apply models for plasma etching, plasma-enhanced deposition and plasma surface modification
- Combine physics-based and machine learning methods to predict process results
- Train ML models on data from large, multi-dimensional HPC simulations, together with experimental measurements
- Work with experimental teams to guide process development and explain new results
- Develop and maintain internal modelling software and frameworks
- Present results to scientists, engineers and major customers
Why this role matters
Every advanced chip goes through hundreds of plasma steps. Each new node needs etch and deposition recipes that are harder to find by trial and error. Models that predict how a plasma changes a surface save months of wafer tests. This role sits where atomistic simulation, HPC and machine learning meet, inside the largest chip-equipment maker.
What Applied Materials is looking for
- A PhD in engineering (for example chemical, materials or mechanical) or science (for example physics or chemistry), or a related field
- Experience modelling plasma–surface or gas–surface interactions with ab initio quantum chemistry, molecular dynamics or kinetic Monte Carlo
- A strong machine learning background, especially in scientific computing or HPC
- Experience with large, complex simulation datasets and linking model results to experimental data
Pay and location
The posting gives a salary range of $138,000 to $190,000 a year for Santa Clara. The final figure depends on location, grade, skills and experience. Bonus and stock awards may also apply. The post is full time and eligible for relocation.
How to apply
Apply through the official Applied Materials page. The closing date is 30 October 2026 (the posting may close early). Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so apply early.
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Hiring institution: Applied Materials
Official advertisement: amat.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com
How to prepare for this application
- Prepare a short talk on one surface-reaction model you built (DFT, MD or kMC): inputs, validation and limits
- Show a machine learning model you trained on simulation data, and how you checked it against experiments
- Revise plasma etch basics: ion energy, radicals, selectivity and atomic layer etching cycles
- Be ready to explain how you would combine a physics model with a data-driven surrogate
- Apply well before 30 October; the posting says it may close early
About Applied Materials
Applied Materials is a US company headquartered in Santa Clara, California. It makes equipment, services and software used to manufacture semiconductor chips and advanced displays.
