Role Overview for VP, R&D, Materials Science with a Semiconductor Firm – San Jose, CA

JRG Partners is proud to lead a confidential, retained search for a visionary Vice President of Research & Development, Materials Science on behalf of our client, a global leader in the semiconductor industry. Based in the heart of Silicon Valley in San Jose, CA, our client is renowned for its pioneering technology, commitment to innovation, and significant impact on the future of electronics. This is a career-defining opportunity for a transformative leader to steer the company’s materials science innovation engine, shaping the next generation of semiconductor devices that will power the world’s most advanced technologies.

As the VP of R&D, Materials Science, you will be the chief architect of the company’s materials strategy. You will command a world-class team of scientists and engineers, fostering a culture of discovery, rigorous scientific inquiry, and relentless execution. This executive role is not just about managing research; it is about setting a bold vision, anticipating future industry shifts, and translating fundamental scientific breakthroughs into tangible, manufacturable solutions that provide a sustainable competitive advantage. You will be responsible for the entire materials innovation pipeline, from early-stage exploratory research and novel material synthesis to process development, characterization, and successful integration into high-volume manufacturing (HVM) environments. Your leadership will directly influence the company’s technology roadmap, intellectual property portfolio, and long-term market leadership. You will operate at the highest levels of the organization, collaborating closely with the CTO, heads of engineering, and business unit leaders to ensure that your R&D efforts are perfectly aligned with strategic business objectives and customer needs. This position requires a unique blend of deep technical expertise, strategic foresight, inspirational leadership, and business acumen.

Key Responsibilities of VP, R&D, Materials Science with a Semiconductor Firm – San Jose, CA

Strategic Vision & Leadership

Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive, long-term R&D vision and strategy for materials science that aligns with the company’s overall technology roadmap and corporate objectives. Champion a culture of innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence across the organization.

Team Development & Mentorship

Lead, mentor, and scale a high-performing, multi-disciplinary team of Ph.D. scientists, process engineers, and technicians. Attract, retain, and develop top-tier talent, fostering their professional growth and ensuring a robust succession pipeline.

Technology Roadmap & Innovation Pipeline

Define and drive the materials technology roadmap, identifying and prioritizing key research areas in thin films, deposition techniques (ALD, CVD, PVD), etching, novel dielectrics, interconnects, and advanced packaging materials. Oversee the entire R&D lifecycle, ensuring projects progress efficiently from concept through feasibility, development, and eventual technology transfer.

Research & Development Oversight

Direct all aspects of materials research, including fundamental discovery, synthesis, process development, and advanced characterization. Ensure the use of state-of-the-art methodologies, statistical analysis (DOE), and modeling to accelerate learning cycles and de-risk new technologies.

Intellectual Property (IP) Strategy

Drive a proactive IP strategy to protect the company’s innovations. Foster a culture of invention and oversee the patent application process, working closely with legal counsel to build a formidable and defensible patent portfolio.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Serve as a key partner to product development, manufacturing, and business unit leaders. Ensure seamless and effective technology transfer from R&D to high-volume manufacturing, providing the necessary support to resolve integration challenges and ramp new processes.

Budget & Resource Management

Develop and manage the multi-million dollar R&D budget, ensuring optimal allocation of capital, operational expenses, and human resources. Justify investments in new equipment and capabilities to maintain a leading-edge research environment.

External Ecosystem Engagement

Establish and nurture strategic relationships with leading universities, research consortia, national labs, and key suppliers. Stay abreast of cutting-edge academic research and external innovations to inform internal strategy and identify potential collaboration or acquisition opportunities.

Executive Communication

Effectively communicate R&D strategy, project status, key findings, and resource needs to the executive leadership team, the Board of Directors, and other key stakeholders. Translate complex technical concepts into clear business implications.

Requirements for the VP, R&D, Materials Science with a Semiconductor Firm – San Jose, CA

Educational Background

A Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related discipline is required.

Executive Experience

A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in the semiconductor or a related high-technology industry, with at least 8-10 years in a senior R&D leadership capacity (Director, Sr. Director, or VP level). Demonstrated experience leading large, globally distributed teams is highly preferred.

Technical Depth

World-class expertise in the fundamentals of materials science and its application to semiconductor processing. Deep knowledge across several of the following areas is essential: thin film deposition and characterization, plasma physics, surface chemistry, advanced dielectrics, metallization, lithography materials, and materials for advanced packaging and 3D integration.

Proven Track Record of Innovation

A demonstrable history of leading teams that have successfully developed and transferred novel materials and processes from the laboratory into high-volume manufacturing, resulting in successful commercial products. A strong publication and/or patent portfolio is highly desirable.

Strategic Acumen

Ability to think strategically and translate broad corporate goals into a concrete, actionable R&D plan. Experience developing multi-year technology roadmaps and aligning them with business needs in the dynamic and competitive semiconductor industry.

Leadership & Interpersonal Skills

Exceptional leadership qualities with the proven ability to inspire, motivate, and develop a diverse team of highly skilled technical professionals. Outstanding communication, presentation, and influencing skills, with the ability to engage effectively with all levels of the organization, from individual contributors to the board of directors.

Business & Financial Acumen

Strong understanding of the business drivers for a semiconductor company. Experience developing and managing significant R&D budgets and making sound investment decisions based on ROI analysis and strategic value.

Benefits & Perks Offered

Our client is committed to attracting and retaining the best talent in the industry and offers a comprehensive and competitive executive compensation and benefits package, including:

Executive Compensation

A highly competitive base salary, a significant annual performance-based bonus, and a substantial long-term equity package (RSUs/Stock Options).

Comprehensive Health & Wellness

Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents. Access to wellness programs, mental health resources, and a fitness stipend.

Retirement & Financial Planning

A leading 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match, plus access to financial planning services.

Work-Life Integration

A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, paid company holidays, and a commitment to supporting a healthy work-life balance for senior leaders.

Professional Growth

A dedicated budget for executive coaching, attending top-tier industry conferences, and pursuing other professional development opportunities.

Relocation

A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family.

Onsite Amenities

Access to state-of-the-art facilities, an onsite cafeteria, and other perks designed to create a productive and enjoyable work environment in San Jose.

How to Apply

JRG Partners is the exclusive recruitment partner for this confidential executive search. We invite qualified and interested candidates who are ready to make a significant impact on the future of semiconductor technology to express their interest. Due to the confidential nature of this search, direct applications to our client will be redirected to JRG Partners.

Role Overview for VP, R&D, Materials Science with a Semiconductor Firm – San Jose, CA

JRG Partners is proud to partner with a globally recognized leader in the semiconductor industry, a company renowned for its pioneering technology and commitment to solving the world’s most complex challenges. Our client, based in the heart of Silicon Valley in San Jose, CA, is seeking a transformative and visionary leader to join their executive team as the Vice President of Research & Development, Materials Science. This is a career-defining opportunity to steer the fundamental research that will underpin the next generation of semiconductor devices, shaping the future of computing, artificial intelligence, and communications.

As the VP of R&D, Materials Science, you will be the central pillar of innovation, responsible for conceiving, developing, and executing the company’s long-term materials technology roadmap. You will command a world-class team of scientists and engineers, fostering a culture of curiosity, rigorous scientific inquiry, and relentless innovation. Your leadership will directly influence the company’s ability to maintain its competitive edge, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in materials science to enable breakthroughs in device performance, power efficiency, and manufacturing scalability.

This role is not merely about managing a department; it is about setting the strategic direction for the core technologies that will define the industry for the next decade and beyond. You will operate at the intersection of fundamental science, product engineering, and corporate strategy, ensuring that your team’s discoveries translate into tangible, market-leading products. We are looking for a leader who is not only a distinguished scientist but also a strategic business partner, capable of inspiring a team and driving a research agenda that delivers profound technological and commercial impact.

Key Responsibilities of VP, R&D, Materials Science with a Semiconductor Firm – San Jose, CA

The VP of R&D, Materials Science will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, encompassing strategic leadership, team development, hands-on research direction, and cross-functional collaboration. Success in this role requires a blend of deep technical expertise, inspirational leadership, and sharp business acumen.

Strategic Vision & Technology Roadmap

• Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive, multi-year materials R&D roadmap that is deeply aligned with the company’s overall business objectives and long-term product strategy.
• Identify and champion disruptive technologies and emerging material science trends that present opportunities for significant competitive differentiation and market leadership.
• Conduct rigorous technical and market analysis to prioritize research initiatives, ensuring optimal allocation of resources towards projects with the highest potential impact.
• Establish and manage the R&D department’s multi-million dollar budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility while aggressively pursuing breakthrough innovation.
• Present technology strategy, program status, and key findings to the executive leadership team and Board of Directors, effectively translating complex scientific concepts into business implications.

Team Leadership & Talent Development

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a large, multi-disciplinary team of Ph.D.-level scientists, engineers, and technicians, fostering a collaborative and high-performance research environment.
• Cultivate a culture of scientific excellence, intellectual curiosity, and accountability, where innovative ideas are encouraged, and rigorous, data-driven decision-making is the norm.
• Recruit, develop, and retain top-tier talent from around the globe, building a world-class organization recognized for its expertise and contributions to the field.
• Implement robust career development and succession planning programs to ensure the long-term health and growth of the R&D organization.

Research & Innovation Execution

• Direct foundational research and applied development programs across a wide spectrum of critical areas, including but not limited to: advanced thin-film deposition (ALD, CVD, PVD), novel dielectric and metallic materials, surface engineering, materials for 3D integration, and advanced packaging solutions.
• Oversee the entire research lifecycle, from initial hypothesis and experimental design to data analysis, materials characterization, and process integration.
• Drive the rapid resolution of complex materials-related challenges encountered during new product development and manufacturing ramps.
• Ensure the R&D labs are equipped with state-of-the-art characterization and processing tools, and that best practices for safety and operational excellence are maintained.

Cross-Functional Partnership & Technology Transfer

• Serve as the primary materials science authority and liaison to executive leadership, product development, process engineering, and manufacturing teams.
• Forge strong, collaborative relationships with internal stakeholders to ensure a seamless and efficient transfer of new materials and processes from the laboratory environment into high-volume manufacturing.
• Partner closely with the business units to understand future product requirements and translate them into actionable R&D programs.

Intellectual Property & External Engagement

• Champion the creation and protection of a robust intellectual property portfolio, building a formidable patent library that secures the company’s technological advantage.
• Act as a key technical ambassador for the company, representing its research prowess at industry conferences, technical committees, and customer engagements.
• Establish and manage strategic collaborations with leading universities, national laboratories, and research consortia to leverage external expertise and stay at the forefront of scientific discovery.

Requirements for the VP, R&D, Materials Science with a Semiconductor Firm – San Jose, CA

The ideal candidate will be a seasoned and respected leader in the semiconductor industry with a proven history of technical innovation and organizational leadership.

Required Qualifications

Education

A Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, or a closely related discipline is required.

Experience

A minimum of 15+ years of progressive experience in the semiconductor or related high-technology industries, with at least 10 years in a senior leadership capacity managing large, multi-disciplinary R&D teams.

Technical Expertise

Demonstrated, world-class expertise in the fundamental science and engineering of materials used in semiconductor fabrication. Deep knowledge of materials characterization techniques and processes such as CVD, PVD, ALD, CMP, and etching is essential.

Leadership Track Record

A distinguished history of leading research teams from concept to commercialization, evidenced by successful product launches, a strong portfolio of impactful patents, and publications in top-tier journals.

Strategic Acumen

Proven ability to think strategically, develop long-range technology roadmaps, and align R&D efforts with overarching business goals. Experience managing significant budgets and complex project portfolios is required.

Communication Skills

Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and build consensus among a wide range of audiences, from individual scientists to the Board of Directors.

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience in R&D for advanced logic, memory (DRAM, NAND), or advanced packaging technologies.
• An established and active network within the academic and industrial materials science communities.
• Experience managing global R&D teams and fostering international collaborations.
• Prior experience interacting directly with major customers to understand their future technology needs.

Benefits & Perks Offered

Our client is committed to attracting and retaining the very best talent by offering a comprehensive and highly competitive executive compensation and benefits package. This includes:

Executive Compensation

A highly competitive base salary, a significant annual performance-based bonus, and a substantial long-term incentive plan (equity/RSUs) designed to reward strategic impact and long-term value creation.

Comprehensive Health & Wellness

Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents, alongside robust wellness programs, an employee assistance program (EAP), and on-site fitness facilities.

Retirement & Financial Planning

A best-in-class 401(k) plan with a generous company match and access to professional financial planning and advisory services.

Work-Life Balance

An executive-level paid time off (PTO) policy, paid company holidays, and flexible work arrangements to support your personal and professional well-being.

Relocation Assistance

A comprehensive, executive-level relocation package is available for qualified candidates.

Professional Growth

A dedicated budget for continuous learning and professional development, including executive coaching, leadership programs, and fully sponsored attendance at major industry conferences, such as those hosted by the Materials Research Society (MRS).

How to Apply

JRG Partners has been exclusively retained for this critical executive search. If you are a visionary leader with the experience and passion to drive the future of semiconductor materials technology, we invite you to apply.

To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and leadership philosophy. Interested candidates can learn more about our expertise in this domain by visiting JRG Partners’ Technology & Semiconductor Practice page.

Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.