PhD Position – Deposition and Characterization of 2D Materials for Memristive Devices

Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH

Jobbeschreibung

Conducting research for a changing society: This is what drives us at Forschungs­zentrum Jülich. As a member of the Helm­holtz Asso­ciation, we aim to tackle the grand societal challenges of our time and conduct research into the possi­bilities of a digitized society, a climate-friendly energy system, and a resource-efficient economy. Work together with around 7,400 employees in one of Europe's biggest research centers and help us to shape change!

Dealing with the challenges imposed by climate change demands the realization of extremely energy-efficient hardware for future cognitive and self-learning IT systems. This requires disruptive concepts involving new non-volatile storage devices from new materials combined with innovative circuit designs to overcome the performance limits of today's computers. The mission of Peter Grünberg Institute – Electronic Materials (PGI 7) (fz-juelich.de/de/pgi/pgi-7) is to create a scientific and technological basis for harnessing energy-efficient neuromorphic computing inspired by the functioning of the human brain. Two-dimensional materials such as graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) offer high potential for scaling and back-end-of-line (BEOL) integration with CMOS circuits. Together with our partners in the BMBF-funded Cluster for Future NeuroSys, phase 2 (neurosys.info), we aim at the wafer scale deposition of 2D materials by means of metal organic chemical vapor deposition.

We are offering a

PhD Position – Deposition and Characterization of 2D Materials for Memristive Devices


This position focuses on the deposition and characterization of 2D materials and layers stacks by metal organic chemical vapor deposition using a commercial MOCVD system from AIXTRON SE. The understanding of the growth processes and the layer interaction is crucial for a successful transfer of a full layer stack from the growth substrate to the silicon chip. Your tasks in detail are:

  • Growth studies of 2D layers and layer stacks built from graphene, hexagonal boron nitride, and transition metal dichalcogenides by metal organic chemical vapor deposition on sapphire and related substrates
  • Characterization of the different stages of growth and careful analysis of the layer quality by means of nanoanalytical techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, Raman and photoluminescence, and photoemission spectroscopy
  • Analysis of the intra- and interlayer interactions
  • Optimization of growth towards 2D heterostructures formed from continuous layers with well-controlled interfaces
  • Active exchange with collaboration partners
  • Publication of results in peer-reviewed scientific journals and presentation at project meetings and conferences

  • Excellent master's degree in Physics, Chemistry, Material Science, or Electrical Engineering with focus on nanoelectronics technology
  • Profound knowledge of solid state physics, semiconductor physics, and chemical vapor deposition technology
  • Team-oriented and highly motivated for learning and working in an experimental laboratory
  • Independence and the willingness to make a major commitment, characterized by a very reliable and conscientious working style and a strong ability to work in a team
  • Experience in laboratory work, preferably working in a clean room
  • Experience in programming, preferably with Python
  • Fluent speaking and writing skills in English and German

Please feel free to apply for the position even if you do not have all the required skills and knowledge. We may be able to teach you missing skills during your induction. To apply, please submit a complete CV, letter of motivation, and university degree records (both bachelor's and master's degree).


We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We offer ideal conditions for you to complete your doctoral degree:

  • Access to a strong research network at FZJ, such as the Helmholtz Nanofacility (HNF), electron microscopy at the Ernst Ruska-Centrum, and the Jülich Supercomputing Centre
  • Access to a strong research consortium of NeuroSys (phase 2) built by FZJ, RWTH Aachen University, AMO GmbH, AIXTRON SE, and other partners
  • The opportunity to help shape the future within the Cluster for Future NeuroSys, phase 2
  • Further development of your personal strengths, e.g., through an extensive range of training courses; a structured program of continuing education and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral researchers via JuDocS, the Jülich Center for Doctoral Researchers and Supervisors: fz-juelich.de/en/judocs
  • Optimal conditions for balancing work and private life as well as a family-conscious company policy
  • 30 days of annual leave and provision for days off between public holidays and weekends (e.g., between Christmas and New Year)
  • The opportunity to work flexibly (in terms of location), e.g., partly remote work
  • Targeted services for international employees, e.g., through our International Advisory Service

In addition to exciting tasks and a collaborative working atmosphere at Jülich, we have a lot more to offer: go.fzj.de/benefits.

The position is for a fixed term of three years. Pay will be in line with 75% of pay group 13 of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund) and additionally 60% of a monthly salary as special payment (“Christmas bonus”). The monthly salaries in euros can be found on page 66 of the PDF download: go.fzj.de/bmi.tvoed. Further information on doctoral degrees at Forschungszentrum Jülich, including our other locations, is available at fz-juelich.de/gp/Careers_Docs.

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