INM - Leibniz Institute for New Materials, Saarbrücken

The INM research group Structure Formation is seeking for a motivated Doctoral Researcher interested in the self-assembly of nanoplatelets (NPLs) for optical applications.

This PhD project is part of a collaboration that brings together the synthesis, colloidal self-assembly, and optical functionality of 2D materials. We study semiconductor nanoplatelets and correlate their ligand shell structure with assembly and optical properties. Your role will be to tune the molecular structure of the ligands and change ligand shell structure. Using advanced scattering and microscopy, you will study the effect on assembly and collaborate to quantify the effect on optical properties. Our goal is to self-assemble NPLs into 1D, 2D and 3D superstructures and understand how ligand shells affect the process. The project builds on recent advances in NPL synthesis using Cu-Zn-In-S as harmless material alternative to the toxic CdSe, and will be conducted in collaboration with the faculty of chemistry at TU Dresden.

Your Tasks

• Modify particle surfaces through ligand exchange using existing or accessible ligands.
• Quantify the temperature- and concentration-dependent NPL colloidal stability and their self-assembly into superstructures using scattering and microscopy.
• Develop data analysis protocols for advanced structural and optical characterization methods to assess structural and optical properties of NPL superstructures.
• Optimize NPL ligand shell structure in collaboration with TU Dresden to improve optical performance of NPL superstructures.
• Extend existing single-particle photophysical models of NPLs to macroscopic samples.
• Publish scientific papers and present results at international meetings.

Your Profile

We are looking for a motivated candidate with a Master’s degree in physics, materials science, nanotechnology, or a related field. Knowledge in the fields of colloidal synthesis and surface modification, colloidal self-assembly and photophysics/optoelectronics is an advantage. Furthermore, hands-on experience in programming for data analysis is an advantage. Proficiency in English is required; German is helpful but not essential.

We Offer

• A 3-year E13 TV-L 60% contract with the possibility of increment based on performance.
• A dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international research environment with excellent, state-of-the-art infrastructure.
• A cooperative, friendly and supportive environment, with plenty of opportunities to interact with other researchers.
• Opportunities for scientific training, conference participation, and career development.

The INM practices an open and appreciative corporate culture in which the existing diversity is promoted and lived. The institute is an equal opportunity employer with a certified family-friendly policy, and it provides offers for a better work-life balance, flextime, and mobile working. We promote professional opportunities for women and strongly encourage them to apply. Severely disabled applicants with equal qualifications and aptitude will be given preferential consideration.

How to Apply

Please send us the following through the online application system

• Motivation letter
• CV (max 2 pages)
• Publication list (if available)
• Academic transcripts
• Contact details of 1 or 2 references

For more information on the institute, please see: www.leibniz-inm.de/en/