PhD Position - Quantitative Analysis of Carrier Dynamics in Operando Photovoltaic Devices Using Analytical Electron Microscopy
Forschungszentrum Jülich’s Ernst Ruska-Centre for Microscopy and Spectroscopy with Electrons (ER-C), specifically the Physics of Nanoscale Systems (ER-C-1), is a world-class research institute focused on understanding and engineering materials at the atomic scale. Using state-of-the-art electron microscopy and spectroscopy, the institute develops new experimental methods to reveal how nanoscale structures determine magnetic, electronic, catalytic, and soft-matter properties. Its research supports major challenges in energy conversion and storage, advanced materials, nanotechnology, and emerging life-science applications. ER-C-1 also operates as part of a national user facility, giving academic and industrial researchers access to cutting-edge instruments, expert support, and collaborative opportunities in an international environment—making it an outstanding place for PhD candidates to carry out high-impact, interdisciplinary research.
Your Job
This PhD project investigates the nanoscale processes underlying light-to-electricity conversion in silicon-based photovoltaic devices. Using off-axis electron holography in a transmission electron microscope combined with ultrafast laser excitation and pulsed electron beams, the project probes electrostatic potentials and charge carrier dynamics with high spatial and temporal resolution, aiming to identify efficiency-limiting recombination and defect-related effects.
- Preparation of electron-transparent TEM lamellae and specimens
- Operation and optimization of ultrafast laser systems (fs–ps range) and optical setups
- Characterization of electrostatic potentials and excited carrier concentrations using off-axis electron holography
- Mapping of charge carrier lifetimes by synchronization of ultrashort laser pulses with pulsed electron beams and detectors
- Structural and electrical characterization using TEM techniques such as scanning transmission electron microscopy, convergent beam electron diffraction, electron energy loss spectroscopy, and geometrical phase analysis
- Investigation of carrier generation and recombination processes and their interaction with shallow and deep defects
- Analysis and interpretation of experimental data
- Documentation and publication of results in reports, scientific manuscripts, and conference presentations in English
- Collaboration with and co-supervision of students and research interns
Your Profile
- Excellent completed master's degree in physics, chemistry, material sciences, engineering, or a related field.
- Solid knowledge of semiconductor physics, lasers, and optics.
- Ideally, experience in the field of transmission electron microscopy.
- High level of self-motivation, as well as enjoyment and skill in practical work.
- Willingness to take on responsibility for the laboratory and equipment.
- A high level of teamwork and enjoyment of cooperative collaboration.
- Furthermore, you can quickly familiarize yourself with new methods and techniques.
- Ability to work cooperatively with internal and external project partners.
- Very good written and spoken English skills.
Our Benefits for You
- Team & Environment: You will work in a motivated team with an international and interdisciplinary focus – at one of the largest research institutions in Europe
- Research & Infrastructure: You will have access to excellent scientific and technical facilities for your work
- Networking & Exchange: You will participate in (international) conferences and project meetings and actively build your scientific network
- Supervision & Support: We will accompany your doctoral studies with continuous, expert guidance from your academic supervisor
- Work-life balance: We offer flexible working hours to help you balance your professional and personal life. You also have the option of flexible working (in terms of location), which is generally possible after consultation and in line with upcoming tasks and (on-site) appointments
- Annual Leave: You get 30 days of annual leave
- Knowledge & Development: Your professional development is important to us – we support you specifically and individually e.g., through training and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral candidates (JuDocS)
- Health & well-being: Your health is important to us. You can look forward to a comprehensive company health management programme with a wide range of options, including a beach volleyball court, running groups, yoga classes and much more. In addition, our company medical service and an experienced social counselling team are available to assist you on site
- Campus experience: Our research campus in the countryside creates ideal conditions for collegial exchange and sporting activities right on site. Our cafeteria offers a wide range of options—you can enjoy a relaxing lunch break with a lake view
- Successful start: It is important to us that you quickly settle into the team and are given structured training for your tasks. We also support you from the very beginning and make your start easier with our Welcome Days and Welcome Guide
- Fair remuneration: Depending on your qualifications and assigned responsibilities, you will be classified according to pay group 13 (75%) of the TVöD-Bund. In addition to the basic salary, there is an additional year-end bonus under the collective pay agreement amounting to 75% of a monthly salary. All information about the TVöD-Bund collective agreement can be found on the BMI website (pay scale table on page 74 of the PDF download)
- Contract: The position is initially limited to 3 years
- Support for international employees: Our International Advisory Service makes it easier for international employees to get started
In addition to exciting tasks and a collegial working environment, we offer you much more: https://go.fzj.de/benefits
We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.
The following links provide further information on diversity and equal opportunities: https://go.fzj.de/equality and on specific support options for women: https://go.fzj.de/womens-job-journey
Index number: 2026D-0699
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