Postdoctoral Associate – MEMS/NEMS Fabrication and Characterization for Piezoelectric/Ferroelectric Devices and Emerging Computing Hardware

The SonicMEMS Laboratory at Cornell University is seeking a postdoctoral associate with strong hands-on cleanroom fabrication and device characterization experience. We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with hands-on experience in the nanofabrication of MEMS/NEMS devices, a strong background in piezoelectric/ferroelectric materials and devices, and an interest in device-level computing hardware. This includes in-memory or neuromorphic systems.

The successful candidate will contribute to three cutting-edge research programs funded by DARPA. These projects span advanced microsystems, novel computing paradigms, and next-generation intelligent hardware; offering a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of interdisciplinary research.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to explore the respective DARPA program websites to gain further insight into the technical vision, objectives, and impact of these initiatives.

Join us in shaping the future of micro/nanoelectromechanical systems, intelligent hardware, and emerging computing technologies.

Responsibilities: 

The selected candidate will:

• Design, fabricate, and characterize advanced MEMS/NEMS test structures and integrated devices using Cornell NanoScale Facility processes, working closely with collaborators across Cornell and partner institutions.
• Lead and actively contribute to pioneering research initiatives under the guidance of Amit Lal and collaborating faculty members, driving innovation in microsystems, ferroelectrics, piezoelectrics, and emerging computing technologies.
• Work within a highly interdisciplinary research environment, collaborating with postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and the broader research community of the SonicMEMS Laboratory.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers, contribute to the development of research directions, and foster a collaborative and intellectually stimulating laboratory culture.
• Publish research findings in leading scientific journals, co-author high-impact publications, and present results at premier international conferences and workshops.
• Have excellent communications skills and engage with government agencies, industry partners, and other stakeholders, helping translate fundamental scientific discoveries into transformative technologies and real-world applications.
• Support proposal development and strategic research planning, contributing to the growth and long-term vision of the laboratory and its research programs.

Basic Qualifications: 

Applicants should have:

• Hands-on experience in micro/nanofabrication, preferably including lithography, thin-film deposition, dry/wet etching, lift-off, release processes, or MEMS/NEMS process integration.
• Demonstrated expertise in one or more relevant areas, including MEMS/NEMS devices and systems, piezoelectric or ferroelectric materials and devices such as HZO and AlScN, device-level computing architectures, in-memory or neuromorphic computing, or mixed-signal microsystems.
• Strong experimental skills in device characterization, electrical measurements, data analysis, and troubleshooting.
• A Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Applied Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field, or be nearing completion of doctoral studies with an expected graduation date prior to appointment.
• A strong track record of research excellence, evidenced by publications, technical achievements, or significant contributions to relevant research projects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively present research findings to diverse technical and non-technical audiences.
• A collaborative mindset and a willingness to work closely with faculty, postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and external collaborators in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Excellent oral communication skills and a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and proactively share responsibilities within a team-oriented research environment.

How to Apply: Please email sonic_mems@cornell.edu and CC amit.lal@cornell.edu:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Upto two relevant publications
• Names and contact information for two references
• (Optional) Research statement outlining past work and future directions relevant to the project

Additional Information:

• Review of applications begins immediately and continues until all positions are filled.
• The appointment is expected to ideally begin in Aug 2026, with an exact start date to be determined.

Pay Ranges:

The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined by the following criteria:

• Relevant prior work.
• Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position.
• Unique applicable skills.

For more details, please visit Cornell website for Cornell Funded Postdocs

https://postdocs.cornell.edu/benefits/cornell-funded-postdocs-benefits/

Pay Range:

$62,232.00 - $88,745.00

Pay Ranges:

The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:

• Prior relevant work or industry experience.
• Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position.
• Academic Discipline
• Unique applicable skills.

Employment Assistance:

For general questions about the position or the application process, please contact the Recruiter listed in the job posting or email mycareer@cornell.edu.

If you require an accommodation for a disability in order to complete an employment application or to participate in the recruiting process, you are encouraged to contact Cornell Office of Civil Rights at voice (607) 255-2242, or email at accommodations@cornell.edu.

Applicants that do not have internet access are encouraged to visit your local library, or local Department of Labor. You may also request an appointment to use a dedicated workstation in the Office of Talent Attraction and Recruitment, at the Ithaca campus, by emailing mycareer@cornell.edu.

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