PhD Position in Carbon-based Quantum Materials and Devices (a)

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Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting-edge research, Empa’s around 1,100 employees make essential contributions to the well-being of society for a future worth living. Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain.As part of a European consortium project (EIC Pathfinder) aiming at developing a novel solid-state quantum device platform based on atomically precise graphene nanoribbons, the nanotech@surfaces Laboratory and the Transport at Nanoscale Interfaces Laboratory are offering 2 PhD positions and 1 Postdoctoral position.While each position has distinct tasks, they are all essential and complementary for achieving the overarching goals of the project. Collaboration, therefore, will be key as we endeavor to advance this groundbreaking research direction. 1 PhD position will be offered by the Transport at Nanoscale Interfaces Laboratory, of which the details are provided below:Your tasksPhD Position: Transport at Nanoscale Interfaces Laboratory - This PhD project will focus on developing strategies to contact graphene nanoribbons in different device architectures. A key goal will be to demonstrate the persistence of topological quantum phases and spin-polarized edges in GNRs integrated into devices. The PhD candidate will focus on device fabrication and perform electric and thermoelectric measurements to investigate device properties. Nanofabrication will be performed in the Binnig and Rohrer Nanotechnology Center.Your profileWe are looking for outstanding candidates who are highly motivated team players, eager to learn, and have excellent English communication skills.Required qualifications include a Master’s degree in physics, materials science, electrical engineering, or equivalent, with a strong background in solid-state physics or nanoscience. Knowledge in condensed matter physics is required, experience in nanofabrication and (thermo)electric characterization are advantageous but not strictly required.Our offerJoin our world-class teams to explore carbon-based quantum systems within a global network of collaborators where you can build a competitive research portfolio. Located in the Zurich Area, the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technologies (Empa) offers outstanding infrastructure, a broad interdisciplinary environment, and competitive salaries. Empa is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. The position is available starting October 2023 or upon agreement, with a planned duration of up to four years.«a» stands for «all» in our job advertisements. We live a culture of inclusion and respect. We welcome all people who are interested in innovative, sustainable and meaningful activities. That’s what counts - not age, gender, origin, religion, sexual orientation, etc.We look forward to receiving your complete online application including a letter of motivation, CV, certificates, diplomas and contact details of two reference persons. Please submit these exclusively via our job portal. Applications by e-mail and by post will not be considered.