Master's Thesis: Advanced Surface Coating of Complex 3D Ceramic Structures

As RF and microwave devices move toward higher frequencies and lower transmission losses, ceramic surface roughness becomes increasingly important for performance. Complex three-dimensional features make it difficult to achieve smooth, uniform surfaces using conventional treatments. This thesis at Huawei Sweden R&D will investigate and experimentally validate surface engineering processes that enable ultra-low roughness and reliable metallization of ceramic components for next-generation RF applications.

The assignment

• Assess established and emerging smoothing methods, including plasma-assisted treatments and conformal coatings, for complex 3D ceramic geometries.
• Plan and perform experiments on difficult-to-access features such as internal walls, deep holes, narrow slots and sharp edges.
• Optimize processing parameters to reduce defects and roughness while improving surface uniformity.
• Characterize surface morphology, roughness, coating uniformity and structural integrity using methods such as AFM, SEM and optical profilometry.
• Relate processing conditions and component geometry to surface quality, identifying reliable smoothing approaches with potential for scaling.

Who we are looking for

• Master’s-level background in materials science, chemistry or RF and microwave technology.
• Strong written and spoken English.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with others.
• Careful working style and a focus on high-quality results.
• Experience with spray coating or dip coating is advantageous, as is laboratory or testing experience and familiarity with international, multicultural workplaces.

What we offer

• An innovation-focused R&D environment with opportunities to collaborate with engineers internationally.
• A project contributing to materials and manufacturing processes for future low-loss RF and microwave devices.

Practical details

Location: Kista. Planned start: spring 2027.