Research Engineer – Advanced Lithography Software & Scanner Performance  

What you will do

As a Research Engineer, you will contribute to the development and optimization of software solutions that enhance the performance of ASML’s most advanced lithography systems. You will work at the intersection of semiconductor process technology, data analytics, and software engineering, supporting cutting-edge research in advanced patterning technologies. 

A key part of the role involves developing and maintaining software applications that analyze large volumes of scanner data, enabling deeper insight into tool behavior, process stability, and system performance. Your work will directly support the continuous improvement of lithography capabilities within imec’s world-leading semiconductor R&D environment. 

Your key responsibilities 

• Understand and use software applications that support advanced lithography scanner operation and performance improvement. 
• Analyze scanner data streams to identify performance trends, diagnose issues, and improve tool stability and productivity. 
• Support research projects by providing software solutions and technical expertise related to lithography equipment. 
• Evaluate, deploy, and integrate new software functionalities delivered by ASML for advanced scanner platforms. 
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and factory operations teams to manage scanner data flows and enable efficient data analysis. 
• Execute focused research projects aimed at improving lithography tool performance and operational excellence. 
• Serve as a technical expert and point of contact for software-related questions within the lithography and patterning community. 

Your first months: hands-on training in Leuven 
You will begin your journey with an intensive training program at imec in Leuven, where you will gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art lithography equipment and semiconductor manufacturing processes. During this period, you will: 

• Learn to operate advanced lithography scanners. 
• Become familiar with the scanner application software and data flows. 
• Gain expertise in executing and interpreting machine qualification and performance tests. 
• Develop an understanding of wafer processing and quality control methodologies. 
• Learn about lithography software architectures, equipment data flows, and existing software frameworks used within imec. 

Your impact after training 
Following your training, you will join a multidisciplinary team of lithography and e-beam equipment experts. In this role, you will play a pivotal part in enabling advanced semiconductor research by bridging equipment engineering, software development, and data analytics. 

You will work closely with ASML to evaluate and implement next-generation software capabilities for advanced lithography systems, ensuring their successful deployment within imec's research infrastructure. In addition, you will collaborate extensively with imec factory operations and research teams to unlock the value of scanner data and drive continuous improvements in tool performance and stability. 

What we do for you

We offer you the opportunity to join one of the world’s premier research centers in nanotechnology at its headquarters in Leuven, Belgium. With your talent, passion and expertise, you’ll become part of a team that makes the impossible possible. Together, we shape the technology that will determine the society of tomorrow.

We are committed to being an inclusive employer and proud of our open, multicultural, and informal working environment with ample possibilities to take initiative and show responsibility. We commit to supporting and guiding you in this process; not only with words but also with tangible actions. Through imec.academy, 'our corporate university', we actively invest in your development to further your technical and personal growth. 

We are aware that your valuable contribution makes imec a top player in its field. Your energy and commitment are therefore appreciated by means of a market appropriate salary with many fringe benefits. 

Who you are

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Applied Physics, Engineering Sciences, or a related technical field. 
• Strong programming skills in Python and/or other scientific programming languages. 
• Experience with data analysis, data visualization, and software development. 
• Experience with both Windows and Linux operating systems. 
• Analytical mindset with a passion for solving complex technical challenges. 
• Recent experience in building AI platforms and/or agents is an asset 
• Strong communication skills in English and Dutch, both written and verbal. 
• Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and collaborate with industrial partners. 
• Strong communication skills and a proactive approach to innovation and problem solving. 
• Experience with advanced lithography, scanner application software, and data-driven engineering is an asset. 

IMEC and its affiliates will not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. IMEC will consider unsolicited referrals and/or resumes submitted by vendors such as search firms, staffing agencies, professional recruiters, fee-based referral services and recruiting agencies (hereafter “Agency”) to have been referred by the Agency free of charge. IMEC will not pay a fee to any Agency that does not have a prior written agreement with IMEC, validated by its HR department, in place regarding a specific job opening and allowing to submit resumes.