Thesis: Real-Time Spectroscopic Monitoring of Microvias Powering the AI Revolution

In cooperation with the Chair of Laser Technology (LLT), the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology (ILT)—Europe’s leading center for contract research and development in the field of laser technology—is offering the opportunity to write a thesis on the topic: »Real-Time Spectroscopic Monitoring of Microvias Powering the AI Revolution«.

The explosive growth of artificial intelligence is driving an unprecedented demand for high-density interconnect printed circuit boards. Next-generation AI chips require ever finer microvias to connect increasingly thin copper layers through dielectric substrates. Today, CO₂ lasers are the industrial standard for via drilling, but their minimum feature size is physically limited. Ultrashort pulsed lasers offer a path to significantly smaller vias. However, a critical challenge arises: unlike CO₂ radiation, the 515 nm USP beam couples efficiently into copper, meaning the very copper layer that must be preserved is ablated alongside the dielectric. As copper layers shrink to thicknesses below 5 µm, even a single excess pulse can cause irreversible damage. This thesis addresses this challenge by developing a real-time, in-line endpoint detection system. The plasma generated by each individual laser pulse is spectrally analysed to detect the characteristic copper emission—the instant copper is exposed, the process stops. This enabels damage-free microvia drilling at industrial throughputs.

Be part of change

• You will set up and align the optical arrangement

• Through experiments, you will investigate the feasibility

• Then, you will design an evaluation circuit and program a FPGA based control scheme

• The objectives of the project will be tailored to your skills and preferences

What you contribute

• You are studying Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, or a comparable programme

• You are interested in application-oriented research at the intersection of photonics and sustainable manufacturing

• You work organised, structured, and independently

What we offer

• 💡 Team spirit: Creative, interdisciplinary environment with a motivated team, flat hierarchies, and an informal culture.

• 🏢 Workplace: Excellent range of machines and equipment, as well as first-class office facilities.

• 🤝 Involvement: Practice-oriented thesis in an innovative applied research environment.

• ⚖️ Work-life balance: Benefit from flexible working hours based on trust.

• 🚗 Getting there: Good transport connections, parking spaces directly in front of the institute, an e-charging station, and a parking garage.

The position is limited in duration until completion of the thesis. We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities.

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

Ready for a change? Then apply now and make a difference! Once we have received your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. We will then get back to you as soon as possible and let you know what happens next.

If you have any questions about this position, please contact:

Sönke Vogel, M.Sc. Phone: +49 241 8906-180

Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT

www.ilt.fraunhofer.de

Requisition Number: 84894 Application Deadline: 10/31/2026