Summary
ARCNL is seeking an experiment-oriented Postdoctoral Researcher to investigate the fundamental dynamics of liquid-tin targets and plasmas for extreme-ultraviolet (EUV) light sources. This project focuses on understanding how rapid solidification governs splashing, adhesion, and debris formation when molten-tin droplets impact solid substrates. The role is part of ARCNL’s Source Department and the EUV Plasma Processes group, involving close collaboration with industry partners.
Postdoc Position: Controlling Splashing and Debris from Solidifying Tin Droplets
Designation
Postdoctoral Researcher
Research Area
- Fluid Mechanics
- Phase-Change Physics
- Industrial Application (EUV Lithography)
- Laser-Droplet Interaction
- Droplet Deformation and Fragmentation Physics
- Molten-Tin Droplet Impacts and Solidification
Location
Amsterdam Science Park, The Netherlands
Eligibility/Qualification
Required Qualifications:
- PhD (or soon to obtain) in (Applied) Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related field.
- Strong experimental background with experience in designing, building, and improving laboratory experiments.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
- Enthusiasm for collaborative, hands-on research and motivated to take scientific ownership of the project.
Desired Qualifications (assets):
- Experience in one or more of the following: fluid dynamics, droplet impact, multiphase flow, heat transfer, phase change, high-speed imaging, vacuum systems, optical diagnostics, or surface science.
- Experience with scientific programming and quantitative data analysis, particularly in Python.
- Experience with droplet generation, thermal diagnostics, image processing, or automated experimental control.
Job Description
This experimental postdoctoral position will delve into the interface of fluid mechanics, phase-change physics, and industrial applications within ARCNL’s EUV Plasma Processes group. The core objective is to develop a predictive, experimentally grounded understanding of how rapid solidification and ambient pressure influence molten-tin droplet impacts. This insight will be used to identify surfaces and operating conditions that minimize splashing and debris formation, crucial for advanced EUV source environments.
Key Responsibilities:
- Utilize a droplet-on-demand platform for millimeter-sized molten-tin droplets with controlled ambient pressure, substrate temperature, impact velocity, and surface properties.
- Employ synchronized high-speed side- and bottom-view imaging to capture impact dynamics.
- Establish quantitative regime maps for spreading, sticking, rebound, freezing, peeling, and fragmentation.
- Quantify droplet deformation, contact-line motion, solidification dynamics, and the size and velocity distributions of secondary droplets using existing and newly developed image-analysis workflows.
- Develop predictive scaling relations for fragment formation across various pressure and temperature conditions.
- Collaborate with researchers at TU/e, UvA, and industrial partners to translate scientific understanding into practical design principles for low-debris surfaces and optimized operating windows.
- Design and execute experimental campaigns, perform quantitative analysis, and interpret physical results for publication.
Working Conditions:
- Full-time (40 hrs/week, 12 months/year) appointment for 2 years.
- Starting salary of €4,552 gross per month (scale 10, CAO-OI).
- Range of employment benefits.
- Potential eligibility for the ‘30% ruling’ favorable tax agreement for non-Dutch applicants.
- ARCNL assistance with housing (subject to availability), visa applications, transport costs, and furnishing expenses for foreign researchers.
- Opportunity to work with a dedicated molten-tin droplet-impact setup and advanced imaging techniques.
- Close scientific collaboration within an interdisciplinary environment spanning multiphase flow, laser-matter interaction, plasma physics, surface science, and nanolithography.
- Direct interaction with industrial partners.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your application online via the button below (not provided in source, but implied by original text). Your application must include:
- Resume
- Motivation letter (maximum 1 page) explaining your interest in joining the group and this specific project.
Online screening may be part of the selection process. ARCNL is committed to diversity and encourages applications from all qualified individuals.
Last Date for Apply
Until position filled
Apply Link
Please refer to the original job posting on the ARCNL website (link not provided in source, but implied by original text).
