Research Associate / Scientist, Physical Vapor Deposition

Your Impact at Lila

Lila Sciences is seeking a thoughtful and dynamic Research Associate or Scientist in physical vapor deposition to join our physical sciences team. The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting applied research and supporting the development of thin film materials. They will work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to design and synthesize novel materials for a variety of applications. This role provides a unique opportunity to engage in innovative research and development activities across multiple disciplines.

Location: Cambridge, MA

What You'll Be Building

• Synthesize, characterize, and evaluate thin film materials.
• Analyze PVD process and materials characterization data and interpret results to identify trends and generate hypotheses.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including experimental and machine learning scientists, to synthesize materials for scientific objectives.
• Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
• Participate in troubleshooting and problem-solving activities to optimize experimental protocols.

What You’ll Need to Succeed

• Research Associate: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Scientist: Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Proficiency in sputtering or other physical vapor deposition techniques.
• Proficiency in relevant laboratory techniques such as material synthesis and characterization methods (e.g., profilometry, XRD, SEM).
• Excellent organizational skills with deep attention to detail.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.

Bonus Points For

• Experience synthesizing thin film coatings for magnetic applications.
• Familiarity with industrial physical vapor deposition processes and applications.
• Experience with python programming or data analytics.

About Lila

Lila Sciences is the world’s first scientific superintelligence platform and autonomous lab for life, chemistry, and materials science.  We are pioneering a new age of boundless discovery by building the capabilities to apply AI to every aspect of the scientific method.  We are introducing scientific superintelligence to solve humankind's greatest challenges, enabling scientists to bring forth solutions in human health, climate, and sustainability at a pace and scale never experienced before. Learn more about this mission at  www.lila.ai

If this sounds like an environment you’d love to work in, even if you only have some of the experience listed below, we encourage you to apply.

Compensation

We expect the base salary for this role to fall between $80,000 –$118,000 USD per year, along with bonus potential and generous early equity. The final offer will reflect your unique background, expertise, and impact.

We’re All In

Lila Sciences is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status.

Information you provide during your application process will be handled in accordance with our Candidate Privacy Policy.

A Note to Agencies

Lila Sciences does not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than candidates. The submission of unsolicited resumes by recruitment or staffing agencies to Lila Sciences or its employees is strictly prohibited unless contacted directly by Lila Science’s internal Talent Acquisition team. Any resume submitted by an agency in the absence of a signed agreement will automatically become the property of Lila Sciences, and Lila Sciences will not owe any referral or other fees with respect thereto.