Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the potential industries that value expertise in thin film technology, particularly from the perspective of a participant nearing the completion of a PhD in materials technology. The scope includes industrial applications, research areas, and career opportunities in the field.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant expresses a desire to understand the industries that might be interested in thin film technology expertise and seeks a list of potential employers.
- Another participant suggests starting with a list of current industrial applications and research areas related to thin films, indicating a belief that many opportunities exist in this field.
- A participant notes that their project has industrial partners, implying that their work aligns with current applications, but they seek clarity on which industries are specifically interested.
- One participant highlights the demand for scientists with thin film expertise, mentioning major semiconductor companies like TI and Intel, as well as equipment manufacturers like KLA Tencor and Novellus, which focus on thin film technology.
- A specific example is provided regarding a person hired by Novellus to study PVD of tungsten nitride layers, illustrating a practical application of thin film expertise in the semiconductor industry.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants generally agree that there are opportunities in industries related to thin film technology, but there is no consensus on a definitive list of industries or specific applications.
Contextual Notes
Limitations include the lack of a comprehensive list of industries and specific applications, as well as the dependence on the evolving nature of research and industrial needs in thin film technology.
Who May Find This Useful
Individuals interested in pursuing careers in materials science, particularly those specializing in thin film technology, as well as industry professionals seeking to understand the relevance of thin films in various applications.