Bio
Hi, I am Rabindra Khanal, a PhD graduate in physics with a background in experimental condensed matter physics. Dr. Khanal completed his Phd at the University of Idaho, where he focused on the fabrication and characterization of soft-magnetic nanocomposite thin films critical for the miniaturization of electronic devices and next-generation wireless communications.
During his Ph.D. research, Dr. Khanal employed physical vapor deposition (PVD) to synthesize thin films and employed various characterization tools to investigate their properties. He studied how deposition parameters, such as angle and impact energy, influence the surface structure, electrical resistivity, and magnetic behavior of thin films.
Dr. Khanal has hands-on experience with characterization techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), Vibrating Sample Magnetometry (VSM), and electrical measurements.
Dr. Khanal obtained his B.S. degree in physics from Tribhuvan University, Nepal, in 2012, and his M.S. degree in physics from the same university with high honors. Dr. Khanal obtained his PhD degree in Physics from the University of Idaho in 2024.
Dr. Khanal has also taken leadership and industry roles during his career. Dr. Khanal served as President of the Nepali Student Association (NSA) at the University of Idaho from 2020-2022, organizing events and supporting the Nepali and international student communities. Dr. Khanal also has 1 year of experience as a Process Engineer at Intel, where he gained knowledge on process optimization in a high-tech industry environment.
Dr. Khanal is interested in nanoscience and nanotechnology research, process optimization in high-tech industries, and data analysis to solve real-world engineering problems. Currently, he is exploring opportunities to contribute his skills in advanced high-tech industries and electronic devices.
Honors and Awards
Received graduate scholarships and assistantships during Phd at the University of Idaho
Recipient of Physics Graduate Research Award 2025, Department of Physics, University of Idaho
Recipient of Graduate Teaching Assistant Award, 2023, Department of Physics, University of Idaho
Awarded the Halland, Leonard Centennial Award, 2020-2024, Department of Physics, University of Idaho.
Served as the President of the NSA (2020-2022) at the University of Idaho.
Received Phd Degree 2024, Department of Physics, University of Idaho
Professional experience as a Process Engineer at Intel
Experience
Module Development Engineer:
Intel Corporation: Hillsboro, Oregon, 97124
Process Stability: Owned operation and maintenance of Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD) processes for Intel 18A and 14 A nodes on LAM Research (Vector/ALTUS) platforms, ensuring high precision film thickness and uniformity in Front End Metallization.
Yield and SPC Monitoring: Utilized JMP and inline SPC/FDC monitoring to diagnose hardware and process excursions in real time; maintained tight control limits to prevent yield loss during critical ramp phases.
Problem Solving: Applied 8D methodology and FMEA to resolve chronic tool issues; partnered with equipment vendors to implement Continuous Improvement Processes (CIP) that increased tool uptime and throughput.
Documentation & Training: Authored and standardized Best Known Methods (BKM) and technical work instructions to ensure seamless hand-offs between engineering and shift technician teams.
Cross-Functional Leadership: Led daily shift-exchange and area meetings to align on tool health, project milestones, and high-volume manufacturing (HVM) priorities
Professional Education
Doctor of Philosophy in Physics, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA (2024)
Master of Science in Engineering Management, Cumberland University, Lebanon, TN, USA (2026)
Master of Science in Physics, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal (2017)
Bachelor of Science in Physics, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal (2013)