Unfold your career
Augusto Daniel Rodrigues, Research Engineer, Heterogeneous Integration Technologies
Augusto Daniel Rodrigues is currently working as a Research Engineer at SAL in the Heterogeneous Integration Technologies (HIT) unit in Villach. Originally from Brazil, Augusto began his journey with SAL in 2019 through an exchange program while pursuing his degree in electronics engineering. During this time, he spent seven months at CTR (Carinthian Tech Research, now part of SAL) working on a master thesis project under the supervision of Ali Roshanghias. After this valuable experience, Augusto returned to Brazil to complete the final stages of his degree.
The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 disrupted his plans and delayed the completion of his studies. Despite these challenges, Augusto stayed connected to SAL and kept an eye on career opportunities. Although he did not initially meet all the requirements for open positions, he applied in late 2020. His persistence paid off when he rejoined SAL in April 2021 as a full-time Research Engineer in the Heterogeneous Integration Technologies (HIT) unit.
Fun Fact: Back in 2021, when Augusto returned to Austria, he started helping two Brazilian dance teachers with their classes here. The news quickly spread around SAL, and at the time when the cleanroom was about to be opened, he participated in a marketing video for LinkedIn where he danced in the cleanroom facility. So, you might have seen him there!
"Don't let a few unchecked requirement boxes get in the way of the possibility for a successful and fulfilling part of your career."
Dear Augusto, what is your role at SAL and how does a typical day look like for you?
I originally joined SAL as a Junior Scientist, but over time, the nature of my responsibilities shifted, and I transitioned into my current role as a Research Engineer. Within the HIT unit, I focus on wafer-level integration processes, especially techniques involving chip bonding and wafer-level interconnects.
A typical day starts between 7 and 8 AM with the first cup of coffee. Most of my time is divided between hands-on work in the cleanroom, preparing and processing samples, and meetings with colleagues and external partners. Planning is a key part of my routine, especially because cleanroom tools need to be booked in advance, and tasks often depend on other steps or people. I also contribute to documentation, prepare for project meetings, and take part in technical discussions or “tech talks” to share ideas across the team.
What do you appreciate most about SAL?
SAL is a unique workplace because of its applied research focus. We’re involved in a large number of projects across various industries, and each one brings something new to the table. The diversity of fields, industrial and academic partners, and technologies we work with means I’m constantly learning and evolving.
However, it can also be challenging to work with many different partners from different fields. In the end, this challenge keeps motivation high and helps you keep learning and improving in these fields.
What is your highlight at SAL?
One of my most memorable moments was attending ISSE 2023 in Timisoara, Romania. It was my first time giving a talk session at a conference, and I presented our research on flip-chip bonding using copper-based materials. It was nerve-wracking at first, but it turned out to be a hugely rewarding experience—for my confidence as a researcher and as a communicator.
Another recent highlight was being chosen to lead a project at the beginning of 2024. This was a big step for me, and although it came with new challenges, it also marked a turning point in my development. Taking on more responsibility and having my contribution recognized in this way was incredibly motivating.
What is your advice for future applicants?
When I first applied for my position at SAL, I did not fulfill every requirement listed, but I tried anyway. I think the key takeaway is to not get discouraged if you do not meet all the requirements for your intended position, because sometimes your experience in other fields can be a valuable asset for the overall role you're applying for. It’s also part of the fun and excitement of a new job to discover new things and new abilities while doing it.
Who is your professional role model?
One of the great things about working in this very collaborative and diverse company is interacting with many colleagues with different strong skill sets. However, two stand out for me:
First, Ali Roshanghias, my former supervisor and now the head of our unit. I really admire his innovative mindset and proactive approach to finding new collaboration opportunities—whether it’s with industry or academia.
Second, Evgeniia Lagosh, a colleague I work with in the cleanroom. Her attention to detail and structured way of working are a model for managing complex process flows. Her precision really inspires me to refine my own methodology.
Join our team!
You want to start your success story at SAL? Are you looking for a new challenge? If you want to actively shape the technologies of the future and enjoy working in an international team, then you've come to the right place.
