Director of Research & Development, EUV Accelerator

The Director of Research & Development for the EUV Accelerator at Natcast is responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive R&D strategy while leading a world-class technical team. Key duties include driving innovation in advanced lithography solutions, protecting intellectual property through robust patent strategies, and fostering collaborations with industry partners such as NY CREATES. Additionally, the director manages research budgets, represents Natcast at conferences, and builds strategic partnerships within the semiconductor ecosystem.

To be considered for the Director of Research & Development for the EUV Accelerator at Natcast, candidates must hold a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field, along with over 10 years of semiconductor industry experience. Leadership experience in a consortium environment and a deep understanding of semiconductor physics are also essential. Strong technical leadership, stakeholder management, and a proven track record in innovation are key qualifications.

The EUV Accelerator at Natcast, supported by a substantial $825 million investment under the CHIPS for America initiative, plays a crucial role in enhancing the semiconductor industry's capabilities in advanced lithography. It aims to drive research and innovation that strengthens U.S. leadership in semiconductor manufacturing. This initiative is pivotal for reducing the time and cost of bringing new technologies from idea to commercialization, ultimately benefiting the global semiconductor ecosystem.

In addition to the mandatory qualifications, skills that would be advantageous for the Director of Research & Development at Natcast include direct experience in EUV lithography, advanced materials expertise, and multi-site research leadership. Knowledge of federal research grants and experience in semiconductor startups can also enhance a candidate's profile, aligning with the role's innovative and collaborative nature.

Natcast fosters a mission-driven, inclusive, and collaborative work culture. As the Director of Research & Development for the EUV Accelerator, you will find an environment that celebrates diversity and encourages innovative thinking. The organization is committed to creating an inclusive space for all employees, promoting teamwork and collaboration across various technical areas to advance semiconductor technology.

It's crucial to detail any hands-on experiences you've had with advanced lithography technology, focusing on specific projects or innovations you've led. Emphasize the impacts of your work on the semiconductor manufacturing process and how it aligns with Natcast's goals. Discuss your approach to problem-solving in this area.

Effective prioritization is key in R&D. Discuss your methods for assessing project viability, such as market demands, potential impact, and resource availability. Provide examples of how you have successfully navigated competing priorities while maintaining team momentum.

Highlight your communication and leadership styles that promote teamwork. You can mention specific strategies, like regular collaboration meetings, joint research initiatives, and feedback systems that have worked for you in the past. Show that you understand the importance of partnerships in achieving innovative breakthroughs.

Discuss your experience with budgeting, including how you assess project costs and allocate resources efficiently. Give examples of past situations where your budgeting skills impacted research outcomes positively, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.

Share a relevant success story, describing the innovation process from concept to execution. Detail your leadership role, the challenges faced, and the results achieved. This demonstrates your capability in driving impactful research initiatives.

Explain your strategies for safeguarding innovations through patents and other legal avenues. Provide examples of how you’ve navigated this process in previous roles, emphasizing the importance of IP in maintaining competitive advantage in semiconductor technology.

Discuss the value of academic partnerships in fostering innovation and advancing research agendas. Share your personal experiences collaborating with universities or research institutions and how these partnerships have added value to your previous projects.

Describe your methods for staying informed—this could include attending conferences, participating in professional networks, or reading industry publications. Emphasize your proactive approach to continuous learning and how you incorporate new advancements into your work.

It's important to demonstrate insight into current trends and obstacles in the semiconductor industry. Discuss challenges such as rapid technological advancements, global competitiveness, and regulatory changes, while also outlining your strategies for overcoming them.

Articulate your motivations for joining Natcast, aligning your values and professional aspirations with the organization's mission. Highlight your enthusiasm for contributing to U.S. technological leadership in semiconductor manufacturing and your eagerness to work in a collaborative environment.