PhD student position (f/m/d) K 4/25

The Leibniz-Institut für Kristallzüchtung (IKZ) is a leading research institution in the field of science & technology as well as service & transfer of crystalline materials. Our goal is to enable solutions for pressing societal challenges (e.g. communication, artificial intelligence, climate protection, health, etc.) through modern electronic & photonic technologies. The work covers the entire spectrum from basic and applied research to pre-industrial development and is carried out in cooperation with national and international partners from universities, academies and industry. The institute is part of the Forschungsverbund Berlin (https://www.fv-berlin.de/) and a member of the Leibniz Association (https://www.leibniz-gemeinschaft.de). You can find more details on the institute webpage: https://www.ikz-berlin.de.

We are offering a

PhD student position (f/m/d)

“Thin-film piezoelectric materials for surface acoustic wave applications”

Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) devices are key hardware components for signal processing, e.g. in mobile or satellite communication. An important material parameter is the electromechanic coefficient, which is highest in lead (Pb) - based materials. Unfortunately, due to its toxicity, such materials are banned from use in consumer market applications.

In this project we will benchmark the alternative material system Potassium-Sodium Niobate [(K,Na)NbO3] and test new device architectures for future electroacoustic applications. Specifically, you will monitor the propagation of SAWs in thin film architectures using time-resolved optical spectroscopy and x-ray diffraction. Your work will be embedded in a collaboration with the Electrical Engineering Department at Universität Bayreuth.

The sample structures are grown at IKZ in Berlin. The optical and x-ray characterization will be performed at the IKZ-DESY JointLab in Hamburg Bahrenfeld, which is the place of work. However, regular presence at IKZ in Berlin is very welcome. Project meetings with our collaborators and moderate travel are also part of this project.

Applicants must have a MSc degree (or equivalent) in a chemical or physical discipline. Prior experience in the following fields is an asset to your application:

• Hands-on experience with lasers and experimental optical setups
• Hands-on experience in thin-film growth and nanostructuring
• Strong background in solid state physics (ferro- and piezoelectricity) and electrodynamics
• Knowledge in x-ray physics

What we offer:
The position is limited to three years, an extension for another year is possible. Payment is according to TVöD Bund (E13 75%) (Collective agreement for the public sector). The contract includes the usual social benefits (30 vacation days in a 5-day week, flexible working hours). The Leibniz-Institut für Kristallzüchtung actively promotes the development of young scientists and follows the guidelines of the Leibniz Association.

The Leibniz-Institut für Kristallzüchtung actively supports a healthy work-life balance and is an equal opportunities employer. Female candidates are encouraged to apply and will be given preference if suitably qualified. Among equally qualified candidates, preference will be given to candidates with disabilities. IKZ promotes diversity. We welcome every qualified application, regardless of age, belief, disabilities, ethnic origin, gender, nationality, religion, or sexual orientation.

If you want to have more information about the project, please contact us: 
Dr. Peter Gaal, Tel.: +49(0)40-8998-5835 ([email protected])
Dr. Jutta Schwarzkopf, Tel.: +49(0)30-246499-308 ([email protected])

Are you interested?
Then apply with a letter of motivation, curriculum vitae and all relevant certificates. To do so, please go to Job offers/jobs on our homepage and click on this advertisement and then on "Apply online". Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

We look forward to receiving your application!