Summer 2026 - Computational Lithography / Patterning Intern(7352)
About the Role:
Join our cutting-edge R&D team as a Research Intern, where you'll contribute to the future of semiconductor manufacturing through advancements in nanopatterning. Lithography patterning is a critical process at the forefront of semiconductor technology, and you'll play a pivotal role in pushing its boundaries. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the development of advanced numerical algorithms and robust software architectures, deploying them on state-of-the-art computational hardware. Your work will directly support our scientific and engineering objectives, driving innovation in an essential industry.
What You'll Do:
- Innovate & Develop: Design and implement leading-edge software solutions for nanopatterning, encompassing sophisticated modeling of e-beam, lithography, resist, and etching processes.
- Explore & Optimize: Research and develop novel resolution enhancement techniques specifically for low-k1 lithography patterning, addressing critical industry challenges.
- Build & Enhance: Contribute to the development and ongoing maintenance of our in-house lithography and etching simulation software suite.
- Analyze & Theorize: Perform in-depth analysis of simulation and experimental data, synthesizing scientific theories to propose and implement innovative theoretical or empirical solutions.
- Research & Integrate: Proactively seek out and evaluate new ideas from academic conferences and research papers, identifying opportunities to integrate cutting-edge concepts into our production workflows.
Who We're Looking For:
- Academic Excellence: Currently pursuing a PhD in a highly relevant field such as Physics, Applied Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
- Computational Prowess: Excellent programming skills with demonstrated proficiency in high-level languages (e.g., C, C++, Fortran, Python).
- Analytical Mindset: Strong technical problem-solving and analytical skills, with a proven ability to efficiently learn and address complex new topics.
- Self-Starter & Innovator: Highly self-driven, proactive, and capable of focused, innovative, analytical work, eager to translate novel ideas into tangible solutions.
- Domain Knowledge (Plus): Foundational knowledge in optics or electromagnetism is a significant advantage.
- Collaborative Communicator: Effective written and verbal communication skills, enabling clear articulation of complex technical concepts and seamless collaboration within a research team.
Company Description
As a trusted technology and capacity provider, TSMC is driven by the desire to be:
- The world’s leading dedicated semiconductor foundry
- The technology leader with a strong reputation for manufacturing excellence
- Advancing semiconductor manufacturing innovations to enable the future of technology
TSMC pioneered the pure-play foundry business model when it was founded in 1987 and has been the world’s leading dedicated semiconductor foundry ever since. The Company supports a thriving ecosystem of global customers and partners with the industry’s leading process technologies and a portfolio of design enablement solutions to unleash innovation for the global semiconductor industry. With global operations spanning Asia, Europe, and North America, TSMC serves as a committed corporate citizen around the world.
In North America, TSMC has a strong sales and service organization that works with customers by helping them achieve silicon success with cutting-edge technologies and manufacturing excellence. The Company has continued to accelerate its R&D investment and staffing in recent years and is expanding its manufacturing footprint to support customer innovation with 3D IC technologies and optimal manufacturing capacity.
For positions requiring access to technical data subject to export control regulations, including Export Administration Regulations, TSMC Technology Inc. may have to obtain export licensing approval from the U.S. Government for certain individuals. All employment is contingent upon TSMC Technology Inc. obtaining any export license or other approval that may be required by the U.S. Government.
Diversity statement
TSMC Technology, Inc. is committed to employing a diverse workforce and provides Equal Employment Opportunity for all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
TSMC is an equal opportunity employer prizing diversity and inclusion. We are committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity. If you require reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please feel free to notify us at G_Accommodations@tsmc.com. TSMC confirms to all applicants its commitment to meet TSMC’s obligations under applicable employment law. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Pay Transparency statement
At TSMC, your base pay is only part of your overall total compensation package. At the time of this posting, this role typically pays an hourly rate between $44 and $50. The range displayed reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hires. Actual pay may be more or less than the posted range. Factors that influence pay include the individual's skills, qualifications, education, experience and the position level and location.
Nearest Major Market: San Jose
Nearest Secondary Market: Palo Alto