PhD Position (m/w/d) Multilayered 2D quantum artificial heterostructures

The Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research Dresden e. V. (IFW Dresden) conducts modern materials research on a scientific basis for the development of new and sustainable materials and technologies. The institute employs an average of 500 people from over 40 nations and, in addition to its scientific tasks, is dedicated to promoting young scientists and engineers. Further information at:  http://www.ifw-dresden.de.

The Institute for Metallic Materials of the Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research Dresden (IFW Dresden) offers a

PhD position (m/f/d)

Multilayered 2D quantum artificial heterostructures

Project Overview:

By controlling the relative orientation of one layer with respect to another, van der Waals materials have revolutionized the field of material science. The twist degree of freedom has enabled the exploration of strongly correlated matter and quantum phase transitions between insulating, magnetic, and superconducting states. The experimental control over inert systems, such as graphene, is tremendous, and recently, multilayered architectures have been realized with a high degree of electronic control. However, the chemistry of graphene is relatively simple as it is made up of only carbon atoms. In contrast, there are other van der Waals materials composed of multiple chemical elements, such as the cuprate superconductors, which are very difficult to control at the atomically thin limit, let alone realize as van der Waals heterostructures. In recent years, some of these challenges have been overcome, and atomically thin cuprate van der Waals systems, together with twisted cuprate heterostructures, have been realized using novel technologies developed in my group. As theoretical proposals for realizing more complex devices exhibiting chiral Majorana modes, twist symmetries, and superconducting quantum bits are booming, the challenge remains in improving our degree of control to experimentally realize these intriguing functionalities at higher temperatures, where they are commonly expected to operate. The goal of this project is to bring these technologies together and explore the fundamentals of these more chemically complex van der Waals materials, discovering the functionalities of multilayered architectures.

Profile:

We are looking for a highly motivated and team-oriented student, who holds a Master degree in physics, nanoscience. Basic knowledge in condensed matter physics is welcome. The successful candidate is enthusiast about fundamental science, highly ambitious and a good team-player. Good communication skills in written and spoken English are required.

What we offer:

The selected candidate (m/f/d) will receive a salary following TV-L rules (E13, 65%). The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of an extension for an additional two years based on performance. The anticipated start date is March 3, 2025.

In line with our commitment to diversity, we encourage qualified persons of all gender to apply, as we aim to increase representation in the field of science. Additionally, disabled applicants (m/f/d) will receive preferential consideration if they meet the requisite qualifications. Promising candidates will be invited for an interview.

Please send your application with informative documents (letter of motivation, CV, relevant transcripts, training certificates, and contact details for at least two professional references) exclusively in electronic form and in a PDF file (other formats will not be considered), citing the reference number 066-24-2107, no later than 30.12.2024 to bewerbung(at)ifw-dresden.de

If you have further questions about the position please contact Nicola Poccia (n.poccia(at)ifw-dresden.de).