Low-Energy EXAFS Analysis for Understanding Dopant Activation

What you will do As semiconductor devices continue to scale, understanding the atomic-scale environment of dopant atoms is increasingly important for controlling activation and device performance. During this internship, you will analyze low-energy Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (EXAFS) data obtained from doped semiconductor materials being developed for next generation devices . The objective is to identify the local coordination and bonding environment of dopant atoms and link these structural characteristics to independently measured activation ratios. Process and analyze low-energy X-ray absorption spectroscopy and EXAFS datasets. Apply fitting workflows to extract coordination numbers, bond distances, and local structu re . Assess the robustness and uncertainty of the fitted EXAFS parameters. Correlate the EXAFS-derived local chemical environment with dopant activation measurements. Visualize and interpret the results and communicate findings to an interdisciplinary research team. Contribute to technical reports and, where appropriate , scientific publications. Who you are You are a Master’s student, recent graduate, or early-career researcher in physics, materials science, chemistry, nanotechnology, or a related field. You have a general understanding of X-ray absorption spectroscopy and EXAFS analysis. You have experience with scientific data analysis, fitting, and interpretation. Experience with Python, MATLAB, or related tools is an advantage. You are analytical, detail-oriented, and motivated to work on semiconductor materials characterization. You communicate clearly and enjoy working in a multidisciplinary, international environment. What we offer A 12-month research internship at the forefront of semiconductor materials characterization. Hands-on experience with advanced synchrotron spectroscopy datasets and quantitative EXAFS analysis. Close collaboration with experts in semiconductor metrology, synchrotron spectroscopy, materials science, and electrical characterization. A dynamic, multidisciplinary, and international research environment at imec in Leuven. Interested ? Join us to uncover how the atomic-scale environment of dopants governs electrical activation in next-generation semiconductor materials. Your work will help establish structure-property relationships that support future device technologies. Type of internship : Master internship, PhD internship Duration : 12 months Required educational background : Physics, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Chemistry/Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering University promotor : Claudia Fleischmann (KU Leuven) Supervising scientist(s) : For further information or for application, please contact Richard Morris ( Richard.Morris@imec.be ) The reference code for this position is 2026-INT-332 . Mention this reference code in your application. Only for self-supporting students. Applications should include the following information: resume motivation current study Incomplete applications will not be considered