Wet Etch:Supported 5 product families by managing the processes that ran on 15 frontend and backend wet clean tool sets.Responsibilities included diffusion and epi precleans, masked wet etch, contact wet etch, backside etch on Akrion sinks, FSI and SEZ toolsets. Implemented methods that allow for greater flexibility and speed in tool dispositions. The increased flexibility also reduces bottlenecks in the line when tools are down.Oversaw conversion of frontend tool to backend tool for a new processes. Documented qualifications procedures, tool recipes, and operation procedures. Personally trained tool operators on all shifts in the proper use of the tool and how to handle metal containing wafers in a primarily frontend area.Generated data demonstrating a reduction in defects of 45% over standard operating procedures. Kept need for quality improvement visible, paving the way for approval of capital expenditures of $180,000 to implement improvements.Managed fab crises that included a chemical shortage and a fab wide contamination event. By quick and decisive action was able to keep fab running and/or return fab to production quickly ensuring Maxim continued to have on time deliveries with zero scrap attributed to the events.My chemistry background enabled me to contribute unique insights to fab processes.Became familiar with 8D procedures developed a mindset for manufacturing for automotive customers.Two indirect reports.Backup engineer for solvent, phosphorous and sulfuric processes.

Teaching:Managed several classes of students consisting of both lectures and labs.Communicated the intricacies of chemistry in a clear, organized and fun way that non-technical people could understand and appreciate.When necessary, I championed instructional improvements to the department head, especially as they applied to the laboratory environment.

Electrochemical Research:Ran fundamental laboratory operations, procuring necessary chemicals and training undergraduate and master’s level researchers in methods and techniques for which I had expertise.Conducted independently driven research in electrochemical catalytic hydrogenation of an organic substrate. This process would allow more options for the end user when choosing a method for selective hydrogenations.Through my research, I was able to improve control and significantly improve yield and reliability of an underperforming and inconsistent electrochemical process for selective catalytic hydrogenation.

Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD):Invented first manganese nitride CVD precursor and initiated collaboration with an engineer to study the properties of thin films grown from this precursor. The films grown could have applications in data storage and spintronics.Took the initiative to learn how to grow thin films myself while leveraging available analytical resources to decrease feedback time between experiment and results. The increased efficiency helped me develop a process to grow thin films of manganese nitride at a remarkably low 80 °C and fully crystalline films at 200 °C My good relationship with facilities personnel ensured my repairs got prioritized and the equipment necessary to conduct my research was repaired quickly.Inorganic Synthesis:Using bulky amide ligands, I was able to synthesize novel 2-coordinate transition metal compounds.In collaboration with research groups across the globe, I studied the structural and physical properties of these molecules.Investigated the rotation processes that occur within molecules, and I modeled these rotations to extract information about rotation barriers.Energetic Materials:When my research group was faced with a budgetary crisis, I was able to come up to speed on the literature concerning energetic materials very quickly and make meaningful contributions to another research group.Synthesized aluminum and bimetallic nanoparticles to be studied as long shelf life additives that would boost the efficiency and energy output of a solid propellant for the use in rockets.Conducted exploratory research on the feasibility of using polymers containing decaborane linked by fluorinated carbon chains as rocket fuel additives.

Soot dispersing viscosity index improvers (VII):Conducted independent cost-driven research in an industrial environment on new soot dispersing viscosity index improvers resulting in trucks running on the road today with this polymer in premium diesel engine oils. Engine life is extended, air pollution is reduced through exhaust gas recycle and liquid waste is reduced by extended time between oil drains.Functionalized a polymer backbone to increase its ability to disperse soot.Formulated oils with experimental VIIs and conducted bench tests for viscosity, stability and soot dispersion.Collaborated with internal analytical labs for routine analysis and coordinated external laboratories for non-routine analyses.