PhD position in vibrational and optoelectronic properties of quasi-1D chalcogenides — Empa
- Location
- Dübendorf
- Contract
- Full-time
- Posted
- 36 days ago
Full description
Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting-edge research, Empa's around 1,100 employees make essential contributions to the well-being of society for a future worth living. Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain.
PhD position in vibrational and optoelectronic properties of quasi-1D chalcogenides
The Nanomaterials Spectroscopy and Imaging Group within Empa's Transport at Nanoscale Interfaces Laboratory develops and applies advanced optical and time-resolved spectroscopic methods to understand how structure, defects and the local environment govern material behaviour. We are looking for a PhD student to investigate quasi-1D (Ba,Sr)(Ti,Nb,Ta)(S,Se)3 chalcogenides, a family of semiconductors with strong optical anisotropy and collective electronic phenomena such as charge-density-wave order. The project will establish how composition, defects and chain alignment determine vibrational, optical and carrier-dynamic properties in single crystals and orientation-controlled thin films. The PhD is part of a collaborative project with FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg funded by SNF and DPG.
Your tasks
- Perform Raman and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, including polarization- and temperature-dependent measurements, to investigate structural, vibrational and optoelectronic properties of quasi-1D chalcogenides.
- Characterize optical properties and carrier dynamics using time-resolved photoluminescence (TRPL), terahertz spectroscopy and transient absorption.
- Develop and apply data-analysis approaches for correlating results obtained from complementary characterization techniques.
- Collaborate closely with synthesis, theory and device partners, and publish and present the results in peer-reviewed journals and at international conferences.
Your profile
- Master's degree in physics, materials science, chemistry, nanoscience or a closely related field.
- Strong interest in optical spectroscopy, semiconductor physics and low-dimensional or quantum materials.
- A plus is hands-on experience with Raman, photoluminescence, time-resolved spectroscopy, cryogenic measurements or semiconductor characterization is an advantage.
- Experience with quantitative data analysis and programming (e.g. Python or MATLAB) is an asset.
- A self-motivated and organized working style, with the ability to work independently while contributing effectively to an interdisciplinary and international team.
- Excellent written and spoken English; willingness to collaborate across institutions and undertake a research stay abroad.
Our offer
We offer a fully funded, full-time (100%) PhD position for three years at Empa in Dübendorf, near Zurich, with a starting date on 1st of March. You will work in a highly interdisciplinary environment with access to state-of-the-art materials-characterization infrastructure. We provide excellent research conditions within the ETH Domain and strong opportunities for scientific training, conference participation and career development. The PhD will be enrolled at University of Basel.
We live a culture of inclusion and respect. We welcome all people who are interested in innovative, sustainable and meaningful activities - that's what counts.
We look forward to receiving your complete online application including a letter of motivation, CV, certificates, diplomas and contact details of two reference persons. Please submit these exclusively via our job portal. Applications by e-mail and by post will not be considered.
Questions about this listing
What salary does Empa offer for this role?
The original listing does not state a salary. Our estimate for this role and sector in Dübendorf is CHF 73'500 - 111'500 gross per year — an estimate, not a figure communicated by Empa. The calculator on this site converts a gross salary into your actual net take-home once cross-border tax and social contributions are applied.
Is this a full-time role, and what type of contract does Empa offer?
This listing is a full-time position. The contract type shown here comes directly from the employer's original posting; always confirm exact hours, notice period and probation length with Empa during the application process, since these details can vary by role even within the same contract category.
Do I need a cross-border work permit for a role in Zürich?
EU/EFTA residents living in the border zone of the country adjoining Canton Zürich can apply for a G permit; the Swiss employer files it with that canton's migration office after the contract is signed. Border-zone rules and processing times vary by neighbouring country and canton, so confirm the specifics with Zürich's cantonal migration office or with HR during the application.
How do I apply for this position at Empa?
Use the "Apply now" button on this page — it links directly to Empa's original listing at apply.refline.ch, so your application goes straight to the employer's own applicant-tracking system. Frontaliere Ticino does not collect or forward applications itself.
