Unfold your career
Nastaran Behravan, Junior Scientist, Thin Film Technologies
For Nastaran Behravan, becoming a Junior Scientist at Silicon Austria Labs marked a significant step forward in her scientific journey. Originally from Iran, Nastaran completed her master’s degree with a particular focus on thin film deposition and characterization. Her academic path led her to Silicon Austria Labs, driven by a passion for applied research in sustainable technologies, especially in the field of piezoelectric and ferroelectric thin films.
After one year at SAL, she began her industrial PhD in collaboration with Linköping University as part of the SAL-DC PhD program. Today, she actively contributes to the development of lead-free materials such as AlN and AlScN for MEMS applications, working at the intersection of cutting-edge research and industrial innovation.
Her 10-year plan? Become the Head of the Microsystems Division: “During my application process, they asked where I saw myself in ten years. I wrote: In ten years, I’ll be the Head of the Microsystems Division! It became a little internal joke — but I meant it. So, keep an eye out – your next boss might just be her."
"The work you do in the lab makes a real difference in the real world."
Dear Nastaran, what are you currently working on, and what does a typical workday look like for you?
I work in the Thin Film Technologies unit, where my main focus is the development and characterization of thin films. I also work on the creation of sustainable lead-free materials used in RF filters for wireless communication, which aligns with SAL’s mission of creating a sustainable future. My typical workday is a mix of lab and cleanroom work for thin film deposition, data analysis, and material characterization. I focus on research and testing with the goal of creating sustainable, real-world applications.
What do you appreciate most about working at SAL?
The working environment is extremely supportive and collaborative. You’re given the freedom to explore your ideas. There’s flexibility with working hours, which helps with work-life balance. And there’s no pressure from supervisors — just encouragement.
What advice would you give applicants who want to start their career at SAL?
My most important tip is to be open to learning. Always be curious. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or to start something that hasn’t been done before. That’s how you grow — not just as a scientist, but as a person.
What was your personal highlight at SAL?
In 2024 I was honored with the Carinthiacus Award, which recognized my contribution to the local economy through my research on sustainable, lead-free materials. That was my personal highlight because it shows that the work you can do in the lab makes a real difference in the real world.
Do you have a professional role model?
Due to my work in an interdisciplinary field, I don’t believe in having just one role model, but rather I draw inspiration from multiple mentors, both from my university and my colleagues and supervisors at SAL.
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