Jobs

Open Positions

PhD position in molecular nanostructures and switches on surfaces using UHV STM/AFM

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate to join our team as a PhD student for conducting cutting-edge research in the field of (self-assembled) molecular nanostructures on surfaces using high-resolution scanning probe techniques. The successful candidate will work on specially designed molecules with the aim to unravel and/or controllably manipulate the motional degrees of freedom like rotations or conformational changes of molecules adsorbed on surfaces for future applications in energy storage devices. On-surface reactions will be used to form larger molecular nanostructures. The experiments will be carried out at temperatures between 5 K and room temperature under ultrahigh vacuum conditions with advanced scanning probe techniques, such as scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy and non-contact atomic force microscopy. In particular, external stimuli like thermal excitation and scanning tunneling microscopy manipulation using inelastic tunneling and electric fields will be applied to excite the molecular building blocks and induce motional changes. The project is embedded in the interdisciplinary EU Pathfinder Open project ESiM (Energy Storage in Molecules, https://esim-project.eu/). Close collaboration will take place with research groups from theoretical physics, and synthetic chemistry. The collaborators from synthetic chemistry will provide specially designed molecular building blocks with tailored functionalities. We offer outstanding infrastructure with state-of-the-art equipment and possibilities for broad interdisciplinary collaborations.

Qualifications

We are looking for a motivated candidate who;

  • holds a Master´s degree in Physics, Material Sciences, Nanosciences or Physical Chemistry.
  • preferably has a solid background in surface science and previous experience using ultrahigh vacuum surface analysis equipment or scanning probe microscopy (this is a benefit, but not mandatory).
  • has passion for science and is enthusiastic and a team player.
  • has excellent communication skills, the ability to write scientific papers and can deliver presentations.
  • has a good command of English (oral and written, at least B2).

Conditions of employment

The salary will be according to the German TV-L E13 (75%). The preferred starting date would be December 2024, but is negotiable.

 

Applications

The application should contain:
–    a cover letter outlining motivation, qualifications, experience, and career goals,
–    a curriculum vitae,
–    contact details of 3 people who can provide information on your suitability for the position (thesis supervisors etc.),

The review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Additional information

For further information you can contact, Prof. Dr. Sabine Maier (sabine.maier@fau.de) and consult the following webpages: https://www.spm.nat.fau.de/.

 

Postdoc position on molecular structures on surfaces using scanning probe microscopy

Job description
We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our team and conduct cutting-edge research in the field of molecular structures on surfaces using high-resolution scanning probe techniques. The successful candidate will work on a project that aims to study and manipulate the conformation as well as intermolecular interactions of molecular structures on surfaces at temperatures between 5 K and room temperature under ultrahigh vacuum conditions. In particular, external stimuli like thermal excitation and scanning tunneling microscopy manipulation will be applied to modify molecular structures on surfaces. The project will involve the use of advanced scanning probe techniques, such as scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy and non-contact atomic force microscopy. The project is embedded into the interdisciplinary project ESiM (Energy Storage in Molecules, https://esim-project.eu/) funded by the Pathfinder Open action. Close collaboration with research groups from experimental physics, theory, and synthetic chemistry will take place. The collaborators from synthetic chemistry will provide specially designed molecular building blocks with tailored functionalities. We offer outstanding infrastructure with state-of-the-art equipment and broad interdisciplinary surroundings.

Qualifications

We are looking for a motivated candidate with/ who is;

  • has a degree (Postdoc:PhD, PhD student: master) in Physics, Material Sciences, Nanoscience, or Physical Chemistry .
  • has interest in surface science, for PhD candidates previous experience using ultrahigh vacuum surface analysis equipment or scanning probe microscopy is not required.
  • passion for science and excellent communication skills.
  • the ability to write scientific papers and deliver presentations.
  • a good command of English (oral and written).
  • enthusiastic and a team player.

Conditions of employment

  • The salary will be according to the German TV-L E13 (Postdoc: 100% ).
  • The position is available immediately for 1 years + 1 years (Postdoc)

Applications

The application should contain:

  • cover letter outlining motivation, qualifications, experience, and career goals,
  • curriculum vitae,
  • contact details of 3 people who can provide information on your suitability for the position (thesis supervisors etc.),

The review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Additional information

For further information, you can contact Prof. Dr. Sabine Maier (sabine.maier@fau.de) and consult the following web pages: https://www.spm.nat.fau.de

 

 

Bachelor/Master Students

Diploma, Bachelor and Master students looking forward to complete their degree at our group are very welcome. If you are interested just pay us a visit or write an email to sabine.maier@fau.de.