WNF: What is your role at WNF?
Julia Worden: I am one of roughly 20 undergraduate research assistants at WNF. We are responsible for maintaining the clean room by monitoring particle counts, restocking consumables, and assisting staff engineers in upkeep, installation, and characterization of equipment. We also conduct research. My current project involves developing a damascene process to fabricate multi-layer devices with copper interconnects.
In addition to research and lab upkeep, I serve as the lead undergraduate research assistant, which involves managing and training undergrad research assistants at WNF. I make sure they have what they need to be successful in the lab, help with onboarding new students and act as a key point of contact with WNF staff.
WNF: What have you enjoyed most about working at WNF?
JW: Honestly, the people! Being part of a cohort of students working at WNF made for a really fun learning environment. And the staff engineers at WNF have been excellent mentors – they taught me new skills, supported my growth as a professional and inspired me to pursue a career in engineering and research.
WNF: What is one of the benefits of being a student research assistant?
JW: The hands-on training you receive as a student research assistant working at WNF is so valuable. I found that having such relevant work experience on my resume made a huge difference when applying for post-college jobs.
WNF: How has working at WNF impacted your academic/professional career?
JW: As a biochemistry major at UW, I didn’t know anything about nanofabrication or the semiconductor industry when I applied to be an undergraduate research assistant at WNF, I was just looking for some research experience. My plan was to go to medical school after I graduated. To my surprise, while working at WNF not only did I learn about an entirely new field, but I found a new career path that I’m incredibly passionate about. I am also grateful that I had the opportunity to serve as the lead undergraduate research assistant because it allowed me to grow as a professional and leader.
WNF: What is next for you following graduation?
JW: I will be working as a clean room process engineer for Noise Figure Research at Facebook Reality Labs. I’m looking forward to this next step, but I’ll miss the people at WNF!