Summary
The Institut Català de Nanociència i Nanotecnologia (ICN2), a flagship research center in nanoscience and nanotechnology, is offering a PhD position in Quantum Transport with van der Waals Heterostructures. This role is part of a research project funded by the Spanish State Research Agency (AEI), focusing on fundamental questions concerning charge and spin transport in quantum materials based on two-dimensional systems. The successful candidate will join the Physics and Engineering of Nanodevices Group, led by ICREA Prof. Sergio O. Valenzuela.
Designation
PhD Candidate
Scholarship Details
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | Institut Català de Nanociència i Nanotecnologia (ICN2) |
| Department | Physics and Engineering of Nanodevices |
| Supervisor(s) | ICREA Prof. Sergio O. Valenzuela and Dr. Juan F. Sierra |
| Contract Length | Temporary, 4 years |
| Working Hours | Full-time (37.5h/week) |
| Salary | Dependent on qualifications and demonstrated experience |
| Benefits | Support for relocation issues, Life Insurance |
| Estimated Start Date | As soon as possible |
Research Area
The research will explore quantum transport in van der Waals heterostructures, with a focus on controlling and probing quantum states through spin, proximity effects, and electrical gating. Key areas include:
- Spin-orbit and magnetic proximity effects
- Spin-charge interconversion and spin torques
- Interplay between spin, magnetism, and topology in graphene and related van der Waals materials
- Revealing and manipulating internal structures of quantum states using advanced experimental probes
The candidate will be involved in experimental activities such as:
- Design and fabrication of quantum devices based on 2D materials
- Preparation and deterministic assembly of 2D materials
- Nanofabrication using electron-beam lithography
- Electrical and quantum-transport measurements at cryogenic temperatures and high magnetic fields
- Spin-resolved transport and magnetotransport
- Advanced spectroscopic characterization
- Development of experiments combining electrostatic control, proximity engineering, and quantum transport
- Analysis and interpretation of experimental data
- Presentation of results at international conferences and scientific publications
Location
Bellaterra (Barcelona), Spain
Eligibility/Qualification
Education
- Master’s degree in Physics, Materials Science, Nanoscience, or a closely related field.
Knowledge
- Solid background in solid-state physics.
Professional Experience (Valued, but not essential)
- Two-dimensional materials and van der Waals heterostructures
- Nanofabrication or cleanroom techniques
- Electrical, quantum-transport, or magnetotransport measurements
- Cryogenic experimental techniques
- Spintronics, magnetism, or quantum metrology
- Raman spectroscopy or related material-characterization techniques
- Scientific programming and data analysis
Personal Competencies
- Strong scientific motivation
- Attention to detail and ability to work both independently and as part of a team
- Good written and spoken English
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted via the ICN2 website. Please ensure your application includes the following documents:
- A motivation letter
- A full CV including contact details
- Reference letters or referee contacts
- Academic transcripts for your Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees
Last Date for Apply
Applications will be continuously reviewed until the position is filled.
