The Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) is a Research and Technology Organization (RTO) active in the fields of materials, environment and IT. By transforming scientific knowledge into technologies, smart data and tools, LIST empowers citizens in their choices, public authorities in their decisions and businesses in their strategies.
Do you want to know more about LIST? Check our website: https: // www. list.lu/
Discover our Materials activities: https: // www. list.lu/en/materials/
How will you contribute?Interested to contribute to sustainable technologies? Researchers from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln (USA) and the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) will join forces to study a new family of eco- friendly functional materials that may enable breakthroughs in the development of ultra-low-power devices, from neuromorphic computing to signal filters for telecommunications.
We will focus on ferroelectric materials based on the simple parent compound, hafnium oxide (HfO2). Ferroelectrics possess a permanent electric dipole that can be reoriented by an external voltage, which allows to build efficient field-effect devices. Of particular interest is the piezoelectric response of HfO2-based ferroelectrics -- i.e., their elastic deformation in response to an electric field --, which has been shown experimentally to present striking features, such as the possibility of a continuously tuning the magnitude and sign of the effect. This and other novel features of HfO2 ferroelectrics open the door to all-important applications and innovative device designs, but there is a problem: we do not understand the physical origin of such original behaviours or how to control them.
In this project, we will combine theory and experiment to explain (and expand!) the surprising properties of HfO2-based ferroelectrics. In particular, the postdoc based in LIST will work on the theory and simulation of carefully chosen ferroelectric samples (free-standing HfO2-based membranes), which will allow us to elucidate the electric and mechanical response of these systems in relevant and well-controlled conditions. The work will involve all sort of theoretical and simulation tools, from direct quantum-mechanical calculations and machine-learned force fields to suitable phenomenological treatments. The work combines advanced theory and simulations with novel aspects of the physics of 2D functional materials, offering a great opportunity for relevant work and important discoveries.
In this project you will be part of a world-leading theory and simulation group in the field of ferroelectrics and functional materials (LIST), working in close collaboration with top-notch experimental teams in both Nebraska and LIST. This project constitutes a unique training opportunity that will boost your research career in either academy or industry, all while contributing to improve the lives of everyone in the planet!
Is Your profile described below? Are you our future colleague? Applynow!
You hold a PhD degree in Materials Science, Condensed Matter Physics or related discipline.
You have a good understanding of first-principles quantum simulation methods, e.g. based on density functional theory.
Fluency in spoken and written English is a must. So, you're the one we're looking for !
Your LIST benefitsApply online
Your application must include:
Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by email will not be considered.
Application procedure and conditions
We kindly request applicants to provide their nationality for statistical purposes only, as part of our commitment to promoting diversity and ensuring equal opportunities in our workforce. This information will be kept confidential and will not be used for any discriminatory purposes.
LIST is dedicated to maintaining an inclusive work environment and is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to attracting, hiring, and retaining a diverse workforce. All applicants will be considered for employment without discrimination based on national origin, race, colour, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, religion, age, or disability.
Applications will be continuously reviewed until the position is filled. An assessment committee will thoroughly evaluate applications, adhering to guidelines designed to ensure equal opportunities. The primary criteria for selection will be the alignment of the applicant's existing skills and expertise with the requirements mentioned above.
The supervisor of the work will be Prof. Jorge Íñiguez-González and you will be part the “Ferroic Materials for Transducers” group (25-30 members)
Preferably, candidates shall be available for starting to work in February 2025.
REQUIREDLANGUAGESTo be considered for this position it is crucial that you have knowledge of the following languages
Write C1 Advanced
Speak C1 Advanced
minimum required Education
Required work experience in years
0 or more years
Job Category
Details
Employment type
Contract type
Hours per week
40
Contract period
Months
Contract duration
36
Location
Country
City
Esch-Sur-Alzette
Contract Type
Fixed Term contract
Employment type
Full-Time
UO
MRT
Recruiter in charge
Hélène ARAGO
Profile type
Researcher