PhD Student (f/m) on ID10 in the Complex systems and Biomedical sciences

The European Synchrotron, the ESRF, is an international research centre based in Grenoble, France.
Through its innovative engineering, pioneering scientific vision and a strong commitment from its 700 staff members, the ESRF is recognised as one of the top research facilities worldwide. Its particle accelerator produces intense X-ray beams that are used by thousands of scientists each year for experiments in diverse fields such as biology, medicine, environmental sciences, cultural heritage, materials science, and physics.
Supported by 19 countries, the ESRF is an equal opportunity employer and encourages diversity.

Thesis subject: Synthesis Optimization and Multiscale Characterization of Novel 2D Semiconductor and Dielectric Materials Imagine materials as thin as a single atom with remarkable strength, flexibility, and electrical properties. Two-dimensional materials (2DMs), like graphene, have opened new frontiers in materials science. This project aims to push these boundaries further by synthesizing novel 2DM phases with a finite bandgap, which cannot be produced through traditional bulk methods but can only be engineered as atomically thin films using advanced synthetic techniques. We will develop the synthesis paths for materials tailored for specific applications, targeting semiconductors (h-GaN, h-SiC) and insulators (h-AlN) that transition from their bulk wurtzite structure to a non-polar 2D hexagonal phase at critical thicknesses, similar to hexagonal boron nitride (hBN).
The project leverages the liquid metal catalyst (LMCat) technology developed at ID10, which has successfully grown high-quality graphene using chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Our state-of-the-art reactor allows real-time monitoring of growth through synchrotron X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and optical microscopy. We now propose to apply this technology to synthesize novel 2DMs, optimizing structural quality and understanding the growth kinetics. The work will include collaboration with BM32 for ultra-high vacuum growth and CEA for advanced ex-situ characterization via 4D-STEM, SEM, AFM, etc.. This PhD project offers a unique opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research, expanding the synthesis and application potential of 2DMs using LMCats and advanced characterization techniques, with direct implications for future nanoelectronics and optoelectronic devices. Further information may be obtained from Dr. Valentina Rein (tel.: +33 (0)4 76 88 17 35, email: [email protected].

- Master in physics, chemistry, engineering, or a related field
- Strong aptitude for instrumentation and data analysis
- Hand-on expertise in solution-based chemical processes
- Knowledge of X-ray diffraction and scattering methods
- Data analysis skills and programming using Python or MATLAB
- Proficiency in English (working language at the ESRF)Master in physics, chemistry, engineering, or a related field

The salary will be calculated on the basis of relevant qualifications and professional experience.
Do you recognize yourself in this description? Apply now for your next professional adventure!

What we offer:
- Join an innovative international research institute, with a workforce from 38 different countries
- Collaborate with global experts to advance science and address societal challenges
- Come and live in a vibrant city, in the heart of the Alps, and Europe's Green Capital 2022
- Enjoy a workplace designed to support your quality of life
- Benefit from our competitive compensation and allowances package, including financial support for your relocation to Grenoble For further information on employment terms and conditions, please refer to https://www.esrf.fr/home/Jobs/what-we-offer.html
The ESRF is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from disabled persons.