PhD Student - Oxide Nanophysics Group

Job Title: PhD Student

Research area or group: Oxide Nanophysics Group

Description of Group/Project:  

The research will focus on studying structure-properties relationship in novel quasi-bidimensional complex oxides. Our group has wide experience in the synthesis of single-crystal "freestanding" oxide membranes, with ferroelectric, magnetic or electronic properties. These membranes can be integrated in technologically relevant platforms (silicon/flexible polymers) making them highly appealing for novel applications in electronics, sensors, actuators, energy harvesters, etc. On top of that, they offer exciting possibilities to explore new physics in these multifunctional materials. This project aims to explore the tuning of oxide functionalities at the nanoscale via mechanical manipulation of the membranes, exploiting their demonstrated flexibility which allows us to induce microscopic wrinkle textures, as well as macroscopic bending and stretching. The student will make use of state-of-the-art scanning probe microscopy, as well as macroscopic electrical characterization techniques, to unveil the coupling of order parameters with strain and strain gradients in the functional membranes at different scales.

If you have any questions you can contact David Pesquera ([email protected] ) or Kumara Cordero ([email protected]).

Main Tasks and responsibilities:

• Fabrication of epitaxial films and freestanding membranes of complex oxides.
• Development of in-situ strain manipulation devices.
• Characterization via different variable-temperature atomic force microscopy techniques.
• Electrical measurements (dielectric, transport)
• Process and analysis the characterization data.
• Elaboration of periodic reports to keep track of the project progress.
• Preparation of scientific manuscripts and presentations in conferences or workshops to showcase the results to the scientific community.

Requirements:

Degree in Physics, Materials Science or Nanotechnology

Enrolled in, or finishing, a Master's Degree in Materials Science or similar

• Knowledge andProfessional Experience:

High level of experimental skills. Experience in thin films deposition methods and/or scanning probe microscopy would be appreciated.

Programming skills.

Proficient English level (both written and spoken), capacity to work both independently and in collaboration with other members of the group, innovation, perseverance, and resilience.

Summary of conditions:

• Full time work (37,5h/week)
• Contract Length: Temporary
• Location: Bellaterra (Barcelona)
• Salary will depend on qualifications and demonstrated experience.
• Support to the relocation issues.
• Life Insurance.

Estimated Incorporation date: May 2024

How to apply:

All applications must be made via the ICN2 website https://jobs.icn2.cat/job-openings/612/phd-student-oxide-nanoelectronics-group and include the following:

Applications will be continuously reviewed.

Equal opportunities:

ICN2 is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion of people with disabilities.

ICN2 is following the procedure for contract of people with disabilities according with article 59 of the Royal Decree 1/2015, of 30 of October.