Summary
The Department of Chemistry at Aarhus University, Denmark, is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral researcher for a fully funded 2-year position. The project focuses on advancing the understanding of failure mechanisms in optical phase change materials used in photonic devices. This research utilizes cutting-edge synchrotron X-rays and X-ray free electron lasers (XFEL) at top international facilities.
Postdoctoral Researcher in Optical Phase Change Materials, Aarhus University, Denmark
Key Details
| Property | Details |
| Designation | VIP 137 Postdoc |
| Research Area | Operando on-chip investigation of optical phase change materials using ultrafast X-rays |
| Location | Aarhus University, Department of Chemistry, Langelandsgade 140, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark |
| Work Hours | 37 hours per week |
| Start Date | January 1, 2027 (or as soon as possible thereafter) |
| Application Deadline | September 15, 2026 |
Job Description
The successful candidate will co-lead beamtime proposals and experimental campaigns, working closely with existing on-chip photonic device platforms and project partners.
Core Responsibilities:
- Design and execute operando experiments to probe structural dynamics and degradation during repeated material switching.
- Combine advanced techniques such as laser pump and X-ray probe total scattering, WAXS/SAXS, imaging, and femtosecond X-ray diffraction.
- Analyze large scattering and diffraction datasets to connect structural signatures to device-level failure.
- Contribute to beamtime proposals, experimental campaigns, and the dissemination of results.
- Publish findings in leading scientific journals and present at international conferences.
Eligibility & Qualifications
- Education: PhD in chemistry, physics, materials science, or a related field.
- Technical Experience: * Proven experience with synchrotron X-ray scattering and/or XFEL experiments.
- Strong skills in crystallographic and scattering data analysis (handling large datasets, background modeling, diffuse scattering, and powder XRD).
- Programming skills (e.g., Python or similar language).
- Experience with operando/time-resolved experiments and X-ray instrumentation is highly desired.
- Bonus: Experience with X-ray imaging.
- Soft Skills: Ability to work independently with strong motivation, alongside excellent collaboration skills in a team environment.
- Language: Fluent written and spoken English.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online in English via Aarhus University’s recruitment system (accessible through the official job advertisement page).
Your application must include:
- A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Degree certificate(s).
- A complete list of publications.
- A statement of future research plans and activities.
- A teaching portfolio with verified information on previous teaching experience (if any).
For further information regarding the position, you can contact Associate Prof. Shuai Wei via email at shuai.wei@chem.au.dk.
Note on Career Breaks: Research activities will be evaluated relative to actual research time. Applicants are encouraged to specify any periods of leave without research activities so they can be subtracted from the scientific career span evaluation.
Last Date for Apply
- September 15, 2026 (All applications must be received no later than this date).
