Doctoral Student (m/f/x) for Quantum Matter Pillars (Experimental)

The Max Planck Society is Germany's premier research organization. The 86 Max Planck Institutes conduct research at highest levels, in the service of the general public, in the natural sciences, life sciences, social sciences, and the humanities.

The Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter (MPSD) is located at the Science Campus Hamburg-Bahrenfeld and investigates dynamical phenomena within matter down to the elementary timescales of atomic and electronic motions, the femtosecond or attosecond timescale. The focus is on the use of short wavelength ultrafast probes, such as X-rays or electron pulses, which are capable of measuring atomic and electronic structures in matter of all kinds.

The MPSD currently consists of three scientific departments focusing on solid state physics and theoretical methods in these fields. The MPSD is a partner in the Center for Free-Electron Laser Science (CFEL), collaborating with the Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), European XFEL (EuXFEL) and the University of Hamburg in the development of science based on the X-ray Free Electron Lasers (XFELs).

The department "Microstructured Quantum Matter" investigates how the electronic properties of quantum materials behave on sub-micron length scales. We develop FIB-fabrication methods to fabricate microstructures of highest crystalline quality on the >10μm-100nm scale. In our department, we operate state-of-the-art nanofabrication including plasma (Xe,N,Ar,O), Ga and He/Ne FIBs to cover all structure length scales. We explore all ranges of size-dependent phenomena in complex quantum materials in 3D.

We are looking for a

Doctoral student (m/f/x) for Quantum Matter Pillars (experimental)

Background:

For application in screens and photovoltaics, we require materials that are both conductive as well as transparent. Based on our intuition we think that metals are shiny objects that reflect the optical spectrum of light. When applying finite size confinement to layered quantum materials we can access slabs of materials that combine high electrical conductivity and optical transmission. The high degree of localization of electrons into the conductive planes prevents excitation of the electrons in the perpendicular direction and hence allows for good optical transparency.

Projects:

Layered crystals structures are common to a wide variety of materials and exhibit several quantum coherent states, from high temperature superconductivity to novel quantum oscillation phenomena. The goal of the DFG-funded project PILLAR is a pioneering experimental project of exploration and modulation of both optical and electrical properties of layered quantum materials. The exploration of confinement on thermodynamic properties such as the magnetization present only one example of the missing pieces of the puzzle that in this novel field of research.

Student Profile:

Candidates should have a strong background in condensed matter physics, and a natural curiosity for exploration. Working in a clean-room environment for fabrication and measurements at cryogenic temperatures and in high magnetic fields will be the core of the project. The candidate should bring the ambition and motivation to work in an energetic young research group. Skills in physical modeling are important, e.g. Python or Matlab. Experience in Labview, COMSOL and Autodesk Inventor would be useful.

The successful candidate must have the ability to work and collaborate within an international diverse team.

Working at MPSD requires the applicant to be fluent in English. Proficiency in German is preferred.

Our offer:

We offer a Max Planck Funding contract for Doctoral Students. The salary will be according to the German public pay scale (TVöD). The appointment is for 3 years with possibility of extension.

The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity. We welcome applicants from all backround.

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of indivduals with disabilities in its workface and therefore encourages applicantions from such quailified individuals.

Your application:

To apply please complete the online application form and attach you English CV and motivation letter as well as all relevant certificates. The screening of applications and interviews will start from June 14th 2023 and will continue until the position is filled.

For further information please contact Dr. Carsten Putzke, phone: +49 40 8998-88402, e-mail: carsten.putzke@mpsd.mpg.de.

Detailed information about the Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter can be found at http://www.mpsd.mpg.de.

We look forward to your application.