Head of Research Unit – Magnetic Microsystem Technologies (all genders) // Job-ID: 165-1

Your future responsibilities

Silicon Austria Labs (SAL) is looking for a highly qualified expert to lead and coordinate the Research Unit “Magnetic Microsystem Technologies” (MMT) based in Villach, Austria. We seek a well-connected scientist with a strong background in applied research focused on magnetic microsystems, micromagnetic systems, magnetic sensors, magnetic RF components, and their diverse applications. Expertise in industrial applications and hands-on experience with Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 1–6 are essential for this role.

Your Leadership responsibilities

• Lead and develop the MMT Research Unit: Manage and grow the MMT unit (10-15 researchers) within the Microsystem division.
• Personnel leadership: Oversee personnel management, provide supervision and mentorship fostering a collaborative, productive, and inspiring environment.
• Strategic representation and networking: Represent the unit internally and build external partnerships with academia and industry to enhance visibility and impact.
• Project acquisition and corporate responsibility: Drive project acquisition with international partners, ensuring alignment with corporate goals and financial sustainability.
• Research program and portfolio development: Shape the unit’s research strategy and create a balanced project portfolio in coordination with the Head of Research Division Microsytem Technologies.

Your Scientific responsibilities

• Drive research excellence: Elevate the unit to a world-class level in magnetic microsystem research, achieving significant economic and societal impact.
• Strategic leadership: Coordinate and orient the unit’s research directions, plan necessary investments, oversee their acquisition. 
• Project development and management: Initiate, set up, and manage cooperative and funded (FFG, EU, …) research projects with academic and industry partners.
• Collaborative engagement: Maintain close collaboration with project partners and provide technical guidance to project managers.
• Dissemination of research: Coordinate the units research output. Publish in scientific journals and present at conferences, summits, and key events to boost visibility and impact.

Your profile

• A distinguished post-doctoral record of at least 15 years in research, innovation and leadership in the field of magnetics, magnetic microsystems, spintronic devices, magnetic sensors, magnetic RF components, or related.
• Strong understanding of microfabrication technologies of magnet thin films, MEMS, and magnetic microsystems, of magnetic simulation methodologies, and of experimental design and testing.
• Strong scientific track record in the relevant areas evidenced by peer-reviewed journal publications and invited talks at international conferences.
• Broad and strong industrial and academic network proven by joint collaborations, projects, and publications.
• In depth knowledge of ongoing research trends, the worldwide market and the European industrial ecosystem of magnetic microsystems and their applications.
• Demonstrated ability to lead funding acquisition, ideally beyond purely academic research programs, and to collaborate with the industry.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in project management of large international R&D projects with multiple partners.
• Proven record of at least 5 years team leading experience in industry and research.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Important Facts about SAL

• Diversified research activities with plenty of technical challenges.
• State-of-the-art lab facilities and instruments.
• Internal and external training opportunities for further development.
• Home Office possible.
• € 4 per day food allowance in restaurants or € 2 per day in supermarkets.
• Family & kids friendly.
• Free coffee/milk/tea & fresh fruits.
• Start: as soon as possible.

This position is subject to the Collective Agreement for employees in non-university research (Research CA) in occupational group G (G1 salary = EUR 4.927, paid 14 times a year). Your actual salary depends on your experience and qualifications. We offer a salary in the range between EUR 85.000 to EUR 120.000 (annual, based on an All-in contract and bonus).