PhD Student (f/m/d): Topological Polar Textures in Ferroelectric Superlattices on Semiconductors
Reference No.: QM 2025/9
At the IFOX Institute at HZB, we focus on functional oxide thin films and nanostructures integrated with semiconductors to enable energy-efficient information technologies. As part of the ERC Advanced Grant project LUCIOLE (Layering, Understanding, Controlling, and Integrating Ferroelectric Polar Textures on Silicon), you will contribute to cutting-edge research at the intersection of materials science and nanoelectronics. Your work will involve the development of novel materials based on complex oxide superlattices (e.g., BaTiO₃, SrTiO₃, BaZrO₃) grown on silicon and SiGe substrates, aiming to stabilize polar topological textures. These textures will be thoroughly characterized, and their electrical and optical switchability will be investigated. The long-term goal of this research is to lay the groundwork for future polar topotronics—a new class of functional devices based on controllable polar textures.Your Tasks
- Superlattice growth on semiconductors by molecular beam epitaxy
- Detailed structural characterization (including synchrotron-based methods) and collaboration with our expert microscopist
- In system investigation by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy during the MBE growth
- Investigation of the polar properties (piezoresponse force microscopy, macroscopic electrical measurements) and of chirality as well as their switchability under electrical field
- Presentation at international conferences and scientific publications
Your Profile
- Completed Master's degree in Materials Science, Physics or Chemistry
- Experience in thin film growth and their analysis methods
- Very good written and spoken English
- Excellent teamwork skills
- Programming skills in Python is a plus
Your Benefits at HZB
- Opportunity to contribute to the development of innovative materials and technological solutions for a climate-neutral future in cooperation with leading international researchers
- Commitment to diversity and sustainability through an inclusive working environment, promotion of diversity sensitivity and implementation of sustainable and climate-neutral methods
- Career-enhancing networking opportunities and individual mentoring and support from the HZB Graduate Centre and HZB Postdoc Office
- Attractive remuneration through payment according to Public Service Wage Agreement (TVöD Bund)
- 30 days holiday/year
- Extensive additional benefits, such as company pension plan (VBL), subsidy for public transport (Deutschlandticket Job) and company sports programmes
- Good work-life balance through counselling services on family and career and flexible working time models: Flexitime, part-time, hybrid working
- And a team that is looking forward to meeting you!
Fixed term contract for 48 months. The salary is based on the Collective Agreement for the German Public Service (TVöD-Bund).
How to apply
The following documents must be provided for your application:-- Letter of application – Please explain how you meet the requirements
- Curriculum Vitae
- List of publications
- Copies of diploma and grades with English translation
- Names of two potential reviewers
We very much want our workplace to be diverse, and welcome applications from people with different backgrounds. It is our mission to promote equal opportunities and to improve women’s representation in the workforce. We are therefore very interested in receiving applications from women. Where the qualifications are met, we will give preference to people with disabilities.
For German version, please click on the following link: German Version.