3 PhD-Positions on Graphene: a new transistor device and a sensitive gas sensor

There are 3 Phd positions available:

1. One of the Phd-positions is focussed on a revolutionary design and realization of large array of “gated transistor” devices using much simpler lithographic methods compared to the state-of-the-art Si technology.

2. The second Phd position is related to investigate the existence of ferromagnetism on H-covered graphene: a fundamental experimental study making use of spin-polarized Scanning Tunneling Spectroscopy(STS) and photoemission spectroscopy.

3. The third Phd position is related to developing a highly sensitive gas sensor from grapheme, based on the extraordinary properties of graphene, e.g. the planar structure, the high conductivity, the low noise characteristic in graphene and the excellent low ohmic contacting option. The goal is to study and improve the sensitivity and the selectivity of clean (exfoliated and epitaxial graphene) and functionalized graphene for gas sensing and quantify the role of structural defects on the sensitivity. This will be studied in combination Raman spectroscopy with single molecule sensitivity in combination with Scanning Tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy (STM/STS).

In the group M2N we are presently investigating graphene, in particular the role of structural defects on the mobility and the interaction of electrons with phonons and plasmons. Besides graphene, there is strong activity in understanding the inelastic electron tunnelling mechanism for adsorbed molecules on surfaces, experimentally as well as theoretically. A large part of the group is involved in the design and improvement of the functionality of organic solar-cells and organic electronics.

The project involves a detailed investigation of the electronic structure of graphene grown on SiC substrates. In particular, the graphene/SiC interface

defects play an important role on the mobility and they induce electron-phonon/plasmon coupling. These issues are investigated with experimental techniques and in strong collaboration with theory groups. There will be a close collaboration with the wafer stepper company ASML in Veldhoven and IMEC in Leuven.

Tasks

Experimental skills are indispensible in this project. Scanning tunnelling microscopes and the technique High Energy Electron Loss (HREELS) in combination with photoemission spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy are used to study the morphology and electronic structure of graphene surfaces with and without adsorbed species. There is a particular interest in the role of defects in charge transport and magnetism.  There is a strong collaboration with theoretical groups in the Netherlands and abroad to improve the understanding of the experimental results. The PhD-student will:

• Use the mentioned techniques to investigate the electronic structure
• Be involved in the growth of graphene on SiC substrates
• Collaborate throughout the project with PhD students working on theoretical issues of the graphene topics

Requirements

We are searching for an excellent candidate with an MSc in Physics. The candidates should have good skills in experimental physics, a strong interest in fundamental issues in solid state physics and an affinity with electronic structure modelling.

Appointment and salary

We offer:

• A challenging job in a well-equipped experimental group
• Excellent computational facilities
• A full-time appointment for four years (start date as soon as possible)
• Gross monthly salary from €2042 (first year) to €2612 (fourth year) in line with the Collective Agreement for Dutch Universities
• An attractive package of fringe benefits, including end-of-year allowance, a personal development program for PhD students (Proof program), and excellent sports facilities

Information

Dr. C.F.J. (Kees) Flipse, +31-40-2474118, c.f.j.flipse@tue.nl , Molecular Materials and Nanosystems (M2N), Dept. of Applied Physics (www.phys.tue.nl/mmn). More information about the TU/e can be found at www.tue.nl.

Two positions are funded by Technology Foundation STW

 

Application

Please submit contact information, a curriculum vitae, contact information of two or more references (including a research supervisor), and a copy of the MSc thesis and other relevant publications, if available. Please send us your application by using the "apply now" button on the TU/e website.

Apply now