PhD Position: Surface Science and Engineering for Space and Defence Applications, CSIC, Spain

Summary

The Madrid Institute of Materials Sciences (ICMM-CSIC) offers a PhD position focusing on surface science and engineering for critical space and defence applications. This project aims to mitigate the multipactor effect and optimize the thermal performance of RF devices used in Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and defence technologies. The successful candidate will develop and characterize advanced coatings with low secondary electron yield, high thermal emissivity, and low RF losses through sustainable physicochemical processes.

Designation

PhD Contract

Scholarship Details

Research Area

This PhD project involves the development and understanding of advanced surface science and engineering strategies. Key areas include:

• Mitigation of the multipactor phenomenon.
• Improvement of surface conductivity.
• Optimization of thermal management for high-power RF components.
• Development, deposition, and characterization of coatings combining low secondary electron yield (Low-SEY), high thermal emissivity, and low RF losses.
• Investigation of the relationship between surface morphology, composition, and electronic/thermal properties.

Experimental Techniques

The research will utilize various experimental techniques, including:

• Surface modification by electroless deposition using ionic liquids.
• Measurement of secondary electron yield (SEY).
• Morphological and chemical characterization using SEM, AFM, XPS, and EDX.
• RF testing in waveguides to determine the multipactor threshold and S-parameters.
• Thermal characterization through emissivity measurements and thermal stability tests under vacuum conditions.
• Collaboration with national and international partners, including the European Space Agency (ESA).

Location

Instituto de Ciencia de Materiales de Madrid (ICMM-CSIC), Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz, 3 Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, España

Eligibility/Qualification

We are seeking enthusiastic, curious, and highly motivated students interested in a research career within a multidisciplinary and international environment.

• Education: Master’s degree, or expected completion before September 2026, in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Languages: Good spoken and written English.
• Knowledge & Skills: Background in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, or Surface Science. Experience in vacuum techniques or programming (Python/MATLAB) is an advantage but not essential.
• Motivation: Interest in working in a multidisciplinary, collaborative, and international environment, with applications in the space and defence sectors.

Scholarship Description

The successful candidate will participate in cutting-edge research projects in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA) and industry partners. The position offers advanced training in surface science and characterization, RF engineering, and space technologies. Researchers will have access to state-of-the-art scientific infrastructures and synchrotron facilities, with opportunities for international collaboration, conference participation, and dissemination of scientific results. This role provides valuable experience in the development of strategic dual-use technologies for space and defence applications.

How to Apply

Applicants should send the following documentation via email to the PhD supervisors:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Motivation letter explaining interest in the project and reasons for applying.
• Academic transcripts for Bachelor’s and Master’s studies.
• Contact details of one or two academic referees (recommended but not mandatory).

PhD Supervisors

• Dr M. E. Dávila
• Prof. Dr I. Montero

Contact Information

• mdavila@icmm.csic.es
• imontero@icmm.csic.es

Last Date for Apply

Tuesday, October 15, 2026 – 13:26

Apply Link

Please refer to the email addresses provided in the “How to Apply” section to submit your application materials directly to the PhD supervisors.