13.06.2024

PhD student/ doctoral candidate in Physics (m/f/d, E13 TV-L, 50-75%)

Faculty of Science, Institute of Applied Physics

Bewerbungsfrist: 31.08.2024

The group “Physics of molecular and biological materials” at the University of Tübingen is searching for a

PhD student / doctoral candidate in Physics (m/f/d, E13 TV-L, 50-75%)

The position is limited for three years.

Description of the project
The research group of Prof. Dr. Frank Schreiber at the University of Tübingen deals with the physics of molecular and biological materials using X-ray and neutron scattering. The main research areas are materials for photovoltaics (such as organic semiconductors and organic-inorganic halide perovskites), proteins in solutions and at the interfaces, and complex nano-structured materials (inorganic nanoparticles in organic matrix). For more information, visit our web page: www.soft-matter.uni-tuebingen.de

The focus of this PhD project lies on development and application of advanced X-ray scattering techniques to study the structure and dynamics of complex nanomaterials. More specifically, we want to study the structure of perovskites, organic films and self-assembly of nanoparticles on the level beyond the standard X-ray scattering experiments. This includes spatially-resolved studies with nano-focused X-ray beam and coherent X-ray scattering (X-ray photon Correlation Spectroscopy). Knowing the details of the structure of these materials is crucial for their applications in solar cells, light-emitting diodes, transistors, quantum devices etc. Candidates will perform state-of-the-art experiments at world leading X-ray synchrotron sources (such as DESY in Hamburg and ESRF in Grenoble) and analyze the data using modern approaches, including analysis of big data and machine learning.

Qualification and skills
Candidates should have good communication skills, an interest in detail and motivation to familiarize themselves with new subject areas. Both working independently and working in a team, e.g. during the measurement campaigns, is particularly demanding. Knowledge of programming languages such as Python or Matlab is an advantage. Practical lab skills and enjoying experimental work is also a plus. Involvement in teaching (supervising practicals or tutorials) is possible. Knowledge of German is not necessary, but will be considered as an advantage.

Your tasks

• Preparation of the samples (perovskite films) using the spin-coater setup developed in the group
• Characterization of the samples using laboratory X-ray setups
• Participation in X-ray scattering experiments at world leading large-scale X-ray facilities such as Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY in Hamburg, European Synchrotron Radiation Facility ESRF in Grenoble and others
• Analysis of the collected X-ray scattering data
• Presentation of the obtained scientific results on conferences and in publications

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Physics or Chemistry, or equivalent
• Interest in Materials Science
• Good written and spoken English
• Ability to work both independently and in a team
• Programming skills (Python or MATLAB) and lab working experience are strong advantages

The university seeks to raise the number of women in research and teaching and therefore urges qualified women academics to apply for these positions. Equally qualified applicants with disabilities will be given preference in the hiring process. The university is committed to equal opportunities and diversity. It therefore takes individual situations into account and asks for relevant information. The employment will be handled by the central administration of the University of Tübingen.
Applications should be accompanied by a cover letter describing motivation, skills and any special achievements. Furthermore, a CV and a transcript of records should be added. The position is to be filled immediately. The deadline for the application is 31.08.2024. Please send your application in one PDF file to softmatterspam prevention@ifap.uni-tuebingen.de. Enquiries may also be sent to this address.