PhD position on the "non-equilibrium physical vapor deposition of novel piezoelectric thin films" in Zürich

The project: Piezoelectric materials are essential building blocks of many technologies we use every day. The growing need for highly integrated micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) necessitates the development of novel piezoelectric thin films. This research project focusses on the development of piezoelectric nitrides (e.g. AlScN) using reactive high-power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS). A central part of the project will be the design of high-energy HiPIMS deposition processes for the development of metastable piezoelectric nitrides using a combination of state-of-the-art in-situ process diagnostics and modelling. In addition, we will investigate the synthesis-property relationships by performing a detailed characterization of the materials' phase-constitution, microstructure and piezoelectric properties. The goals of the project are to develop highly efficient piezoelectric thin films, but also to improve our fundamental understanding of the metastable phase formation during non-equilibrium PVD.

Your profile: You have a master’s degree in physics, materials science, electrical engineering or a related discipline with hands-on experience in thin film deposition and UHV technology. Prior experience or knowledge in one or more of the following areas is a clear advantage: materials science, piezoelectric/ferroelectric materials, semiconductors, sputter deposition, materials' characterization (especially XRD, XPS and/or SEM/TEM), multi-physics modelling.

 

The ability to collaborate in a multidisciplinary research environment is essential. Personal initiative, ability to work systematically, reliability, responsibility, teamwork and communication skills are a must. Excellent knowledge of English (oral and written) is mandatory. German is an advantage, but not required.

 

We offer: A stimulating, international and collaborative research environment at a leading research institution with an excellent infrastructure and a broad interdisciplinary surrounding. The fully funded 4-year PhD position is supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation and will be held in collaboration with ETH Zürich. The candidate will work on the Empa Campus in Dübendorf and will be enrolled in the doctoral program of ETH Zürich. - The position is available from 1st February 2021 or later upon agreement.