PhD Student - Hybrid MBE strongly correlated metals

PhD student (m/f/d) –
Hybrid molecular beam epitaxy of strongly correlated metals

Despite decades of research and dramatic improvements in the understanding of electronic properties, materials exhibiting a sizeable electron correlation reveal some peculiar phenomena that are currently not well understood. Recent efforts in synthesizing ultraclean systems with sizeable electron correlation – such as the vanadates – have revealed transport phenomena that cannot be explained within the existing scope of our understanding. Key to these discoveries is the synthesis of material systems with sizeable electron correlation and a very low defect density.

In this project, the successful candidate will work on the synthesis and characterization of perovskite oxide vanadates and niobates using hybrid molecular beam epitaxy. Particularly interesting in this context is the growth of the ultraclean correlated metals SrVO3, CaVO3, as well as SrNbO3 and CaNbO3 in the bulk 3D limit and the ultrathin quasi 2D limit. In addition, Mott insulator materials, such as ReVO3 (Re = rare earth element), will be synthesized and their defect type and concentration will be characterized using conventional defect characterization methods that have been successfully employed in semiconductor materials to demonstrate the quality that can be achieved in these material systems synthesized by hybrid MBE.

Responsibilities:

• Growth of vanadate and niobate thin films by molecular beam epitaxy
• Structural characterization by x-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy
• Electrical characterization using Hall-effect, Magnetotransport, impedance, and electrical noise spectroscopy
• Design of experiments, data acquisition, and data analysis
• Presentation of results at conferences and in publications

Qualifications:

• B.S. or M.S. degree in physics, electrical engineering, materials science, or a related field
• Preferential good background knowledge in condensed matter physics, device physics, or nanotechnology
• Experience with thin film growth or thin film characterization is advantageous

This position is available immediately and is limited to a 3-year period initially with the perspective of a 1-year extension.

Salary and benefits are according to the Treaty for German public service (TVöD Bund) to a level of E13 with 75% working time (typically, approximately 42,000 EUR annual basic salary plus a potential 2,000 EUR annual bonus).

Benefits:

• Modern laboratories with a wide range of experimental techniques
• Supportive environment with experts for various scientific sub-fields and a low number of students per advisor
• International and culturally diverse community
• Location in the heart of Berlin with excellent public transport connections
• A subsidized travel ticket
• Possibility to participate in professional development and/or student exchange programs

The Paul-Drude-Institute is part of the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V. and a member of the Leibniz Association. The institute carries out basic and applied research at the nexus of materials science, condensed matter physics, and device engineering.

In the Epitaxy department at PDI, a dedicated team of scientists, technicians, postdocs, and students operates 13 MBE systems for the synthesis of a wide range of material systems, including arsenides, nitrides, oxides, and 2D materials. This in-house collaborative environment offers abundant opportunities for both direct and indirect learning in various MBE technologies, making it an ideal place to start a career in the field.

For scientific information about the project, please contact Prof. Dr. Roman Engel-Herbert at

With approximately 100 employees and more than 15 nationalities, PDI is committed to building a talented, inclusive, and culturally diverse workforce. We understand that our shared future is guided by basic principles of fairness and mutual respect. Among equally qualified applicants, preference will be given to candidates from marginalized groups. As an equal opportunity and family-friendly employer, we offer highly flexible employment conditions, such as flexible working hours, parental leave, and home office, and we strive to create a family- and life-conscious working environment.

Please upload your application by August 31, 2024 . Your documents should include:

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