PhD scholarship in the design, synthesis and properties of large-scale nanowire lattices - DTU Energy

Usually, nanoscale engineering using state-of-the-art semiconductor processing starts with a crystal wafer which is then shaped using lithography, etching, milling, or metal sputtering to achieve the desired shape and functionality. While this approach is powerful and flexible the processes leave the crystals damaged and uncontrolled at the nano scale. For some purposes such imperfections are disastrous. In contrast, when crystals are growing, atoms can self-assemble into perfect atomic arrangement, and in recent years, new techniques have been developed which use semiconductor processing to direct subsequent crystal growth, thus enabling design of structures with atomic uniformity. This PhD project joins an ongoing effort exploring this approach for design ultra-uniform lattices of nanoscale semiconductor wires grown by molecular beam epitaxy using “selective area growth”. As a second path we are investigating the possibilities of using electrostatically induced electron systems in undoped semiconductor heterostructures to avoid the disorder associated with conventional doping. The overall aim is to realize macroscopic meta-crystals with properties which combine those of the host crystal and those of the designed “super”-lattice. This provides an exciting route for designing material properties and the overall aim of this project is to design and study the band structure of the superlattices and artificially induced electron correlations as encoded in the Hubbard model.

Responsibilities and qualifications
The lattices and undoped heterostructures are grown using molecular beam epitaxy and the project involves preparation of substrates for crystal growth, close interactions with the growers of the team (but not crystal growth), structural characterization using electron microscopy and scanning probe techniques, as well as device fabrication and electrical characterization at low temperatures. One target of the present project is to investigate the possibilities of encoding patterns in the lattice to induce artificial gauge fields. The project thus has a significant component of clean-room processing and electrical characterization which will be performed from room- to ultra-low temperatures in a dilution cryostat.

• MSc. In Physics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering or similar (two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree)
• A strong background in condensed matter physics or materials science
• Background in low-dimensional systems and gauge fields.
• Experience with electronics and electronic circuits.
• Ability to work independently, to plan and carry out complicated tasks, and to be a part of a larger group.
• Experience in Python programming.
• 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 terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

The expected starting date is Sep 1st 2023 or earlier, but requests for later starting dates can also be met. The position is for 3 years.

Further information
For any further information regarding the position, please contact Prof. Thomas Sand Jespersen, +45 28570164, [email protected]  

Please do not send applications to these e-mail addresses, only online applications as described below will be considered.

You can read more about DTU Energy at https://www.energy.dtu.dk/english

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
Please submit your online application as early as possible, but no later than 27 April 2023 (Danish time).

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply online", 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
• List of publications
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale

Applications and enclosures 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 is focusing on functional materials and their application in sustainable energy technology. Our research areas include fuel cells, electrolysis, solar cells, magnetic refrigeration, superconductivity and thermoelectrics. Additional information about the department can be found on 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.