Job Description
My research group is generally focused on the development and application of new methods and concepts for nanoscale imaging and spectroscopy with infrared light. Among optical antennas and Phase-change metamaterials, one of the group's key topics is the method of scattering-type infrared near-field microscopy („s-SNOM“), which e.g. enables the real-space imaging of surface waves (“polaritons”). Such polaritons possess subdiffractional wavelengths and can be modified by their dielectric surrounding, e.g. via switchable phase-change materials or by applying a voltage to neighboring 2D materials or 2D electron gases (2DEG).
Our group has already spectroscopically explored the coupling of free charge carriers to phonon-polaritons in many layered systems, e.g. the 2DEG at the interface of two Phonon-resonant insulators SrTiO3 (STO) and LaAlO3 (LAO), but also in heterostructures of different 2D materials such as few-layer Graphene and hexagonal Boron-Nitride (hBN). Within this new project we want to use s-SNOM to explore the influence of an applied voltage or a modified dielectric surrounding on such polaritons.
Your work topics include:
- performing s-SNOM measurements on polaritons in 2DEGs and 2D materials (various configurations, variation of applied voltage and dielectric environment)
- Improvement of the spectroscopic s-SNOM by implementation of new laser sources and Synchrotron measurements
- Applying theoretical models on s-SNOMs contrasts for their application on polaritons in layered systems
The applicants shall:
- have a University Degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in Physics or Material Science (Nanotechnology).
- be motivated, self-driven, skilled and have fun with experimental work.
- have knowledge in scanning probe microscopy (SPM), laser, optics.
- have good German language knowledge
The successful candidate will be employed under a regular employment contract.
The position is to be filled at the earliest possible date and offered for a fixed term initially for one year.
An extension to a total of 3 years is planned.
The fixed-term employment is possible as it constitutes one of the fixed-term options of the Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz (German Act on Fixed-term Scientific Contracts).
This is a part-time position (75 % of the standard weekly hours for full-time employees).
The successful candidate has the opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree in this position.
The salary is based on the German public service salary scale (TV-L).
The position corresponds to a pay grade of EG 13 TV-L.