Summary
The ICN2 – Institut Català de Nanociència i Nanotecnologia is offering a PhD position in Quantum Transport with van der Waals Heterostructures. This fully-funded position is part of a research project 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 and engage in experimental activities including device fabrication, cryogenic measurements, and data analysis.
Designation
PhD Candidate
Details
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Job Title | PhD Position in Quantum Transport with van der Waals Heterostructures |
| 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) |
| Funding | Spanish State Research Agency (AEI) – National Plan grant (PID2025-173015OB-I00) |
| Benefits | Salary depending on qualifications, support for relocation, life insurance |
| Estimated Incorporation | As soon as possible |
Research Area
The research project focuses on quantum transport in van der Waals heterostructures, aiming to address fundamental questions concerning charge and spin transport in quantum materials based on two-dimensional systems. Key areas of exploration include:
- Controlling and probing quantum states through spin, proximity effects, and electrical gating.
- Exploring property transformations in atomically thin materials when different two-dimensional crystals are combined.
- Investigating spin-orbit and magnetic proximity effects.
- Studying spin-charge interconversion and spin torques.
- Analyzing the interplay between spin, magnetism, and topology in graphene and related van der Waals materials.
- Manipulating the internal structure of quantum states using advanced experimental probes.
Main Tasks and Responsibilities:
- Design and fabrication of quantum devices based on two-dimensional materials and van der Waals heterostructures.
- Preparation and deterministic assembly of two-dimensional materials.
- Nanofabrication using electron-beam lithography and related cleanroom techniques.
- Electrical and quantum-transport measurements at cryogenic temperatures and under high magnetic fields.
- Spin-resolved transport and magnetotransport.
- Advanced spectroscopic characterization of materials.
- Development of experiments combining electrostatic control, proximity engineering, and quantum transport.
- Analysis and interpretation of experimental data.
- Presentation of results at international conferences and preparation of 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 Competences:
- Strong scientific motivation.
- Attention to detail and ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
- Good written and spoken English.
Scholarship Description
This PhD position is a fully-funded opportunity for a highly motivated candidate to engage in cutting-edge research at the ICN2, a Severo Ochoa Center of Excellence. The scholarship covers a full-time, temporary contract for 4 years, offering a competitive salary based on qualifications and experience, along with relocation support and life insurance. The successful candidate will contribute to a nationally funded project (PID2025-173015OB-I00) and receive supervision from ICREA Prof. Sergio O. Valenzuela and Dr. Juan F. Sierra. The program emphasizes broad training and exposure to advanced experimental techniques in nanoscience and nanotechnology.
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 Curriculum Vitae (CV) including contact details.
- Reference letters or referee contacts.
- Academic transcripts for both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
Last Date for Apply
Applications will be continuously reviewed until the position is filled.
Apply Link
