Postdoctoral Research Assistant

Condensed Matter Physics, Department of Physics, Clarendon Laboratory Building, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PU

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant with expertise in high-resolution, analytical scanning transmission electron microscopy applied to next-generation semiconductors for light-harvesting applications.

The position is available for a fixed term of 36 months from time of appointment.

This project is associated with a new EPSRC/UKRI-funded project entitled “Tailoring structure–property relationships in metal halide perovskites at an atomistic level”. This collaborative project will establish structure-property relationships in hybrid metal-halide semiconductors at an atomic-resolution level, uncovering causal links of their microstructure with optoelectronic properties and stability. These advances will be accomplished through a co-ordinated and well-interlinked collaborative programme bringing together a team of leading experts in advanced electron microscopy imaging, first-principles modelling, metal halide semiconductor thin-film and device fabrication, and experimental analysis of optoelectronic properties. We will deploy a cutting-edge combinatorial approach, correlating atomic-scale resolution imaging and multiscale defect mapping approaches with macroscopic analytical experiments and first-principles calculations revealing causal links between material microstructure, electronic properties and degradation pathways. This programme will generate vital progress in critical areas, revealing directly at an atomic level the effects of stoichiometric imbalances and impurity phases, grain boundaries and defects, on macroscopic optoelectronic properties and material stability.  

This PDRA role will lead the acquisition and analysis of atomic-resolution images through scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and implement multimodal defect mapping including 4D STEM to determine statistical occurrence of different crystallographic defects. Processing of the multimodal data will allow the appointee to correlate statistics on defects identified at the atomic level with variations in processing or composition. The PDRA will collaborate with other appointed researchers who focus on thin film fabrication, spectroscopic measurements and first-principles calculations.

Applicants should possess or be close to obtaining a PhD in physics, materials science, or physical chemistry. They should be highly experienced in high-resolution, analytical scanning transmission electron microscopy and associated advanced and automated data processing. Knowledge of semiconductor physics and a track record of working with next-generation novel materials for light-harvesting is essential.

Applicants should be highly motivated and have excellent skills in working collaboratively as part of a team. A good track record of high-quality publications is essential. Having the ability to direct your own research and interpret your results independently is a must. The University of Oxford and the Department of Physics offer an inclusive and diverse environment and workplace. We strongly encourage applications from all backgrounds and genders to apply.

The post-holder will have the opportunity to teach.

For enquiries relating to this post please contact laura.herz@physics.ox.ac.uk

Only applications received before midday 19 November 2025 can be considered. You will be required to upload a brief statement of research interests, CV and details of two referees as part of your online application.

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