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PhD/Postdoc position in the field of low-dimensional materials on surfaces using scanning probe microscopy

The scanning probe microscopy group at the Physics Department of the Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg is looking for a highly motivated Ph.D. candidate with a strong experimental background in Solid State Physics, Surface Science, or Physical Chemistry. In this Ph.D. project, the research topic focuses on the atomic-scale characterization and bottom-up fabrication of low-dimensional carbon-based nanomaterials with peculiar electronic properties via self-assembly and on-surface reactions.

The Ph.D. project aims in particular at the on-surface synthesis of novel atomically precise 1D and 2D covalently linked organic and metal-organic ribbons and networks under ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) on metal surfaces and 2D materials. We use high-resolution scanning probe techniques – including non-contact atomic force microscopy (nc-AFM), scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) /spectroscopy (STS) – in ultra-high vacuum at low temperatures to explore their structural and electronic properties. Using functionalized tips, we can resolve individual atoms and bonds in these carbon-based materials to unambiguously identify their structure. The electronic properties are investigated by scanning tunneling spectroscopy.

The project is part of the DFG Collaborative research center SFB953 – Synthetic carbon allotropes – (https://chemistry.nat.fau.eu/research/dfg/sfb953/) that provide close collaboration with research groups from experimental physics, theory, and synthetic chemistry. The specially designed molecular building blocks with tailored functionalities are provided by collaborators. We offer outstanding infrastructure and broad interdisciplinary surroundings.

Required qualifications include a master’s degree in Physics, Physical Chemistry, Materials Science, or in a related field. A solid background in surface science and previous experience using ultrahigh vacuum surface analysis equipment would be a benefit, is however not expected. Excellent communication skills in English are required.

The position is available immediately for 3 years (PhD) Postdoc (2 years). The salary will be according to the German TV-L. Applications must include a brief statement of interest, CV including an academic transcript with the obtained marks and contact information of 2 references. Please submit your application by e-mail to Prof. Dr. Sabine Maier: sabine.maier@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.