PhD scholarship. Manipulating material properties by nanoscale crystal curvature - DTU Energy

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PhD scholarship. Manipulating material properties by nanoscale crystal curvature - DTU Energy
Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
Job Description

Are you passionate about condensed matter physics and material science? Do you want to push the boundaries of current knowledge and technological capabilities by doing experimental research on the boundary between fundamental science and technological developments in energy materials? Are you excited about using advanced semiconductor processing for the fabrication of novel devices and performing measurements at ultra-low temperatures, high magnetic fields, and nanometer resolution? Then maybe you are the one we are looking for to join our team at DTU Energy.

We currently have a vacant PhD position in the Section for Functional Oxides at DTU Energy. In the project, we will develop a new approach for manipulating fundamental crystal symmetries and, thereby, the properties of materials through curvature-induced strain in crystal membranes. The project combines two unique developments: 1) New concepts and techniques that allow the growth and manipulation of ultra-thin, high-quality, free-standing crystal membranes made from complex oxides or semiconductors. 2) New fabrication techniques that allow the control of surface topography to create controlled nanoscale patterns of “mountains and valleys” on the surfaces of otherwise inert substrates. Transferring crystal membranes onto these substrates induces a curvature and strain texture in the crystal lattice. This breaks the fundamental symmetries of the crystal, allowing the emergence of new functionalities, and the patterning introduces new length scales for manipulating the macroscopic properties of materials. 

Responsibilities and qualifications
The project is primarily experimental. Fabrication of substrates with controlled curvature uses advanced clean room processing techniques combining lithography, etching, metal deposition tools, etc. Further, a new thermal scanning probe lithography technique is utilized in collaboration with researchers at DTU Physics. Free-standing oxide thin film crystals are grown in-house by pulsed laser deposition, and mastering techniques for releasing and transferring crystal films will be central to the project. Curved samples will be investigated by scanning probe techniques (AFM, MFM, PFM, sMIM, etc) to follow the structure-properties relationship at the nanoscale. Electrical devices will be fabricated on curved membranes, and the properties will be studied at milli-kelvin temperatures and high magnetic fields. 

You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree in Physics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering or similar with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree.

• A strong background in condensed matter physics or materials science
• Experience in semiconductor fabrication techniques.
• Experience in low-temperature electronic measurements and scanning probe characterization.
• Ability to work independently, to plan and carry out complicated tasks, and to be a part of a larger group.
• Experience in Python programming is a benefit.
• Good communication skills in English, both written and spoken 

Approval and Enrolment 
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education . 

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and appointment terms 
The position is a full-time position and will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years.

The starting date is as soon as possible according to mutual agreement. 

You can read more about career paths at DTU here .

Further information 
Further information may be obtained from Prof. Thomas Jespersen. [email protected]

You can read more about the department  at www.energy.dtu.dk  and www.fox.energy.dtu.dk  

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark . Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar ” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU. 

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 19 February 2024 (23:59 Danish time).

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae 
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale

You may apply prior to ob­tai­ning your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it. 

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

DTU Energy
The Department of Energy Conversion and Storage (DTU Energy) focuses on research and development of functional materials, components, and systems for sustainable energy technologies. The technologies include fuel cells, electrolysis, power-to-x, batteries, and carbon capture. The research is based on strong competences on electrochemistry, atomic scale and multi-physics modelling, autonomous materials discovery, materials processing, and structural analyses. We also focus on educating engineering students at all levels, ranging from BSc, MSc, PhD to lifelong learning students. We have about 270 dedicated employees. Read more about us at www.energy.dtu.dk.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.

Apply Now
Job Info

• Job Identification 3099
• Job Category Phd
• Posting Date 02/01/2024, 05:19 AM
• Apply Before 02/19/2024, 05:59 PM
• Locations Anker Engelunds Vej, Kgs. Lyngby, 2800, DK

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