PhD Position - Nanoscale charge transport in electronic materials for advanced nanoelectronic applications
The Quantum Nanoscience Division (PGI-3) is one of the world`s leading players in the field of quantum nanoscience research. Its overarching goal is the investigation and application of quantum-coherent functionality of nanostructures. Our research thus contributes to the foundations of new quantum technologies, in particular quantum sensor technology and quantum computing on the nanoscale. Our particular strength lies in the combination of state-of-the-art experimental research methods with comprehensive expertise in the development of unique scientific devices.
Continued scaling of micro- and nanoelectronic devices places stringent requirements on the understanding of charge transport at nanometer length scales. Electrical performance of advanced electronic materials is increasingly governed by local phenomena such as disorder-induced localization effects as well as grain boundary or interface scattering. To address these challenges, local electrical characterization techniques with nanometer resolution are essential.
Your Job
We are offering a PhD position focused on nanoscale charge transport in electronic material thin films, combining state-of-the-art experimental tools like nanoprobers and multi-tip scanning tunneling microscopy with thin film materials research relevant for next-generation micro- and nanoelectronic technologies. The research will be performed within a collaboration with the Belgium nanoelectronics research center IMEC (https://www.imec-int.com/en). The work will focus on spatially resolved electrical measurements, enabling direct correlation between structure and transport properties.
In detail you will:
- Utilize a unique nanoprobing tool with SEM, AFM and STM capabilities to study samples provided by IMEC to measure the nanoscale charge transport properties on metallic as well as semiconducting (oxide) nanowires and two-dimensional semiconductors
- Explore how defects like domain boundaries influence the charge transport properties and their variability at the nanoscale and develop measurements of nanoscale potential maps while a lateral current runs through the nanostructures using potentiometry with a multi-tip STM/AFM
- Perform nanoscale four-point measurements to explore the in-plane/cross-plane resistivity anisotropy of thin film samples and demonstrate the conductivity through 1D edge states in quantum materials using scanning tunneling potentiometry
- Complement the charge transport measurements by structural and microstructural characterization of the thin films as well as by modelling of charge transport
- Coordinate the joint research project between IMEC and FZJ and present and publish the research on an international stage
Your Profile
- Master’s degree in physics, electrical engineering, or materials science with excellent grades
- Solid background in solid‑state physics and electronic transport phenomena
- A strong interest in charge transport physics, nanoscale devices, and thin film materials
- Hands‑on experimental mindset, enthusiasm for advanced nanoscale characterization and instrumentation, and the ability to work both independently and within a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment
- Ideally, prior experience with scanning probe microscopy (AFM or STM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM)
- Very independent and self-motivated way of working but also excellent teamwork skills
- High motivation to take on responsibility and develop own research ideas
- Very good command of written and spoken English with extensive vocabulary is required (at least B2 level according to the CEFR), ideally supported by a certificate confirming the language level. Knowledge of the German language is not mandatory but certainly appreciated
Please feel free to apply for the position even if you do not have all the required skills and knowledge. We may be able to teach you missing skills during your induction.
Our Benefits for You
You will work in a highly interdisciplinary research environment, with access to world-class nanofabrication and characterization infrastructure. For deeper insights, please have a look at our institute website: https://www.fz-juelich.de/en/pgi/pgi-3 and the research group in which this position is located: https://www.fz-juelich.de/en/pgi/pgi-3/groups/multitip
We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We support you in your work with:
- Meaningful tasks: Your thesis deals with cutting-edge research in an internationally recognized environment
- Scientific environment: You can expect excellent scientific equipment, modern technologies, and qualified support from experienced colleagues. On top, you can look forward to an international network of collaborators and exchange partners and excellent mobility opportunities during the project
- 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
- 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 (at least 65%, depending on experience) of the TVöD-Bund. Additionally, you will receive a special payment (“Christmas bonus”) amounting to 75% of one month’s salary. Additional compensation beyond the base salary may be possible. All information about the TVöD-Bund collective agreement can be found on the BMI website: https://go.fzj.de/bmi.tvoed (pay scale table on page 74 of the PDF download).
- Leave: You will receive 30 days of leave
- Knowledge & development: Your professional growth is important to us – we support you specifically and individually, for example through training opportunities and the structured JuDocS program for doctoral candidates: https://www.fz-juelich.de/en/judocs
- 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-0674
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