Jobbeschreibung
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.