Open positions at the Functional Inorganic Materials Group (ETH Zürich)

Topic: Mapping structure of Quantum Dots by solid-state NMR spectroscopy

Supervisor. Prof. Maksym V. Kovalenko

Content . The position is financed by the large international project Track The Twin Doctoral Network (see summary below). This doctoral candidate will specifically focus on the characterization of colloidal quantum dots (QDs) with nuclear resonance methods, chiefly solid-state NMR. Complementary methods, such as X-ray PDF and X-ray spectroscopy, might be involved too, where necessary. The materials scope will span conventional QD materials (metal chalcogenide and pnictides) as well as emerging materials such as lead halide perovskites. Solution, solid-state, and dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) NMR will be used to gain a better understanding and a deeper insight into the structure of QD cores and surfaces. One particularly aims to develop spectroscopic descriptors to correlate the synthesis, structure, as well as stress/aging/operating conditions to the optical properties. NMR holds an inherent and unique advantage over, for instance, X-ray diffraction, as it probes the material locally and element-specific, without prerequisites as to crystallinity. This project is envisioned to be highly interdisciplinary and collaborative, where the doctoral candidates - synthetic chemists, material scientists and physicists from different countries - will be working together to better understand the QDs and to pave the path towards their broader practical deployment.

Profile. Highly motivated candidates should have recently obtained a master's degree in chemistry or material science, or in a related topic with outstanding grades. Highly beneficial is strong theoretical foundation and/or experimental experience in NMR spectroscopy. Experience with nanomaterials and semiconductors, or computational chemistry, are beneficial as well. Excellent communication skills and fluency in English (both written and oral) are mandatory. This specific application requires to fulfil the MSCA mobility rules, namely, that the candidate may not have studied or worked in Switzerland for more than 12 months before the date of recruitment.

How to apply. Send your CV and a statement of motivation directly to mvkovalenko@ethz.ch before December 10th, 2024 at the latest, with the "PhD in solid-state NMR spectroscopy" in the subject line. The late applications might be considered too, but without a guarantee. 2-3 recommendation letters (preferably sent by the referees directly to mvkovalenko@ethz.ch ) must also be provided.

Next steps . After a first assessment of the quality of the CV and the motivation letter, best-ranked candidates will be invited for an interview during Fall 2024. The final selection will be based on the CV, the motivation letter and the interview.

General conditions

We offer a full-time position as a doctoral fellow. The initial period is 12 months, which will be extended to 48 months after a positive evaluation (aptitude colloqicolloquiumum). Extensions beyond this term are possible, too. The contract will start on February 1st, 2025, at the earliest. The salary is offered at an ETH standard rate. The Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences offers state-of-the-art facilities in solution- and solid-state NMR spectroscopy and cutting-edge expertise to learn from.

Research Field

Chemistry

Education Level

Master Degree or equivalent

Languages

ENGLISH

Level

Excellent