Semiconductor Materials Scientist

Semiconductor Materials Scientist

Concentration on Process Modeling & Solid-State Synthesis

At MIMiC, we are developing solid-state, refrigerant-free heat pump systems to reduce carbon emissions, improve thermal comfort, and eliminate the complexity, noise, and maintenance burden of conventional mechanical HVAC systems. By leveraging advanced thermoelectric materials and carefully engineered heat transfer architectures, we are building a new class of heating and cooling systems with no compressors, no refrigerants, and no moving parts.

We are seeking a Semiconductor Materials Scientist to support the development, synthesis, and process optimization of novel chalcogenide-based semiconductor materials. In this role, you will apply principles of condensed matter physics (specifically lattice dynamics) to synthesize high-performance thermoelectric compounds via powder metallurgy techniques. You will also leverage computational modeling, statistical optimization tools (such as Bayesian Optimization) and machine learning to accelerate material synthesis cycles and optimize processing parameters.

We value practical intuition, curiosity, and the ability to learn quickly as much as prior domain expertise.

What You'll Work On (Key Responsibilities)

• Material Synthesis & Processing: Synthesize bulk and nanostructured chalcogenide material systems utilizing solvent-based chemical mixing, drying, and hot-pressing/powder metallurgy techniques.
• Condensed Matter Physics & Transport Optimization: Apply deep theoretical knowledge of lattice dynamics, phonon transport, and electronic band structures to optimize thermoelectric figure-of-merit (ZT) and physical properties.
• Statistical Process Optimization: Build and implement statistical models (e.g., Bayesian Optimization, Design of Experiments) to optimize hot-pressing pressure/temperature profiles and chemical formulation parameters.
• Microstructure & Process Control: Engineer grain boundaries, texture, and phase purity in consolidated chalcogenide compounds to enhance thermal, electrical, and mechanical performance.
• Cross-Functional Integration: Collaborate closely with thermal, mechanical, and device engineers to integrate synthesized chalcogenide materials into solid-state heating/cooling prototypes and evaluate long-term reliability.

What We're Looking For (Must-Haves)

• Education: Ph.D. or M.S. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemical Engineering, Solid-State Chemistry, or a related discipline.
• Chalcogenide Expertise: Hands-on experience in the synthesis, processing, and handling of chalcogenide semiconductor materials (e.g., Bi2Te3, Sb2Te3, PbTe, or related selenides/sulfides).
• Solid-State Physics: Strong theoretical grounding in condensed matter physics, specifically lattice dynamics, phonon scattering mechanisms, and crystal structure properties.
• Lab & Startup Readiness: Comfort working in a lab environment with chemical/solvents and hazardous materials, assembling hardware, building test rigs, modifying prototypes, and operating as a self-starter in a fast-paced startup environment with evolving priorities.

Nice-to-Haves (Preferred Qualifications)

• Metallization & Thin-Film Deposition: Experience with thin-film metal deposition, metallization techniques, barrier layer development, and contact resistance optimization on bulk or substrate semiconductors.
• Statistical Modeling & Coding: Proficiency in Python or C++ for building data-driven statistical models (e.g., Bayesian Optimization, Machine Learning for process modeling).
• Material Characterization: Hands-on experience with XRD, SEM/EDX, Seebeck coefficient measurement, Hall effect, and laser flash thermal diffusivity (LFA).
• Thermoelectric & Energy Systems: Direct research or industrial experience in thermoelectric energy conversion, Peltier modules, or solid-state thermal management applications
• Processing Techniques: Direct background in wet-chemical/solvent-based synthesis routes and powder metallurgy solid-state consolidation techniques.

Logistics & Compensation

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience. Expected indicative base range: $80,000–$95,000/year.
• Company stock option grant aligned with company stage and impact.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, with Company contribution toward premiums.
• Flexible Paid-Time-Off policy plus paid holidays.
• Access to hands-on prototyping facilities, rapid iteration cycles, and close collaboration with leadership and research partners.
• Opportunity to shape core engineering decisions in an early-stage hardware company.

Why Join MIMiC Now?

Be part of a mission-driven startup redefining heating and cooling through solid-state, refrigerant-free technology. Gain deep exposure to heat transfer, thermoelectrics, and system integration, and grow alongside the company as we move from prototypes to commercialization.

Application Instructions

If you are excited about this opportunity, please send your resume and a summary of relevant project/lab experience to careers@mimic.systems. Please include your availability. 

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. Visa sponsorship may be considered for exceptional candidates