Multiple PhD positions in Materials Science and Nanotechnology

Multiple PhD positions are available with the IMS group in the themes of nano engineered thin films for photonic, sensing, neuromorphic and quantum applications.

Examples of projects are:

Ultra-low power phase modulator in silicon nitride

Here, we aim to integrate advanced piezo-electric materials for fast and low power modulation. We target tuning speed of 1 ns using relaxer piezo electric materials such as PZT and low power operation. 

Barium titanate Optical modulators in silicon nitride

Here we aim to equip silicon nitride with high-speed optical modulation through heterogeneous integration with barium titanate.

Oxide quantum materials

Understanding how to co-design correlated and topological states of matter by exploiting the interplay between symmetry, correlation, and topology in oxide quantum heterostructures.

AlScN layers

AlScN and PZT heterostructures grown by pulsed laser deposition on (membrane) platforms. Investigation of various (thermal) strain compensating buffer layers and explore low temperature (< 450C) deposition schemes while maintaining piezoelectric performance.

PiezoNEMS for sensing

Fabrication and characterization of piezoNEMS (nanoscale) transducers with very high-quality factors, by integrating piezoelectric excitation and detection. Main challenge is to develop technologies for the integration of piezoelectric materials in nanoscale structures, without degrading the piezoelectric properties.

Integration of Ferroelectric Tunnel junctions

Crossbar arrays of memristive devices will be developed, based on ferroelectric tunnel junctions (FTJs) and explore their integration with CMOS technologies will be explored.

Are you interested in one of these positions? Please send your application via the 'Apply now' button below before 31 March 2023.

For more information, please contact Prof. dr. ir. Gertjan Koster ([email protected]). 

The application should include:

• a short motivation letter emphasizing your research interest and motivation to apply for this PhD position
• a detailed CV
• contact details of at least 2 referees
• an academic transcript of BSc. and MSc. education
• a TOEFL or IELTS score to verify sufficient mastering of the English language.

An interview will be part of the selection procedure

IMS is a research group devoted to thin film growth studies, (nano)structuring techniques, and properties of complex materials, in particular oxides. It includes materials with diverse properties, like ferroelectrics, ferromagnetics and multiferroics, piezo’s, high-K dielectrics, transparent conducting oxides, non-linear optical materials, ion conductors, superconducting and related materials, and anti-reflection coatings. Its research field is focussed on thin films with modified properties by doping or by artificial layered structures and superstructures. Applications are found in, e.g., nano-electronics and spintronics, optical systems, fuel and solar cells, fluidics, bio-nano sensors.

The Faculty of Science & Technology (Technische Natuurwetenschappen, TNW) engages some 700 staff members and 2000 students in education and research on the cutting edge of chemical technology, applied physics and biomedical technology. Our fields of application include sustainable energy, process technology and materials science, nanotechnology and technical medicine. As part of a people-first tech university that aims to shape society, individuals and connections, our faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad, and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders. Our research has a high profile both in the Netherlands and internationally and is strengthened by the many young researchers working on innovative projects with as doctoral candidates and post-docs. It has been accommodated in three multidisciplinary UT research institutes: Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centre and Digital Society Institute.