KU Leuven

Screening charge transport in bulk and at interfaces of perovskite-based radiation detectors – Postdoctoral Research position

2024-05-22 (Europe/Brussels)
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KU Leuven is an autonomous university. It was founded in 1425. It was born of and has grown within the Catholic tradition.

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The project is part of the larger multipartner SPECTER project which brings together complementary expertises of outstanding research groups from Charles University, Czech Republic, and KU Leuven, Belgium.
The position is situated within the Department of Chemistry at KU Leuven University, one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious academic institutions. The candidate will work under the supervision of Prof. Elke Debroye in state-of-the-art research facilities of the division of Molecular Imaging and Photonics.
This interdisciplinary research is comprehensive, spanning from the principles of material engineering, to detailed (opto-)electric characterization alongside with the development and implementation of new spectroscopic tools. KU Leuven provides an ideal backdrop for this ambitious venture. The university hosts a plethora of science groups working on a wide array of subjects, both theoretical and applied. The splendid academic environment is complemented by the town itself – a medium-sized, vibrant student town with a rich history and diverse international community. This makes KU Leuven an excellent platform for interdisciplinary research collaborations and provides ample opportunities for academic growth and international networking.

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Responsibilities

Metal halide perovskite (MHP) semiconductors have emerged as a highly promising material class for application in the fields of photovoltaics, LEDs, and more particularly, high-energy radiation detectors. Besides their low cost and easy processing, the popularity of MHPs arises from their outstanding optoelectronic properties, such as strong high-energy radiation absorption, and efficient charge carrier generation and transport, outperforming current market standards. However, the intrinsic instability and toxicity of popular lead-based MHPs hinders their large-scale application in sustainable detector technology. 
During this postdoc term, you will systematically evaluate intrinsic structural defects/traps, charge carrier transport and dynamics in newly developed Pb-free MHPs by applying both advanced optical and opto-electric spectroscopic techniques, enabled by the complementary tool set of both SPECTER partners. Meanwhile, the device performance and stability under different conditions, including humidity, temperature, and high-energy (X-ray) radiation, will be screened using different electrical contacts and metal deposition strategies.
The obtained functionalities will be critically analyzed and the intrinsic strengths and limitations of the material will be assessed toward the application as a photoactive layer in high-energy radiation detectors. On the longer term, the findings will facilitate low-dose medical imaging, security and transport screening, and high-energy physics research. 

Profile

Applicants preferentially hold a Ph.D. degree in a relevant field, such as materials science or (physical) chemistry, with interest in material processing and using advanced characterization techniques to study fundamental (opto-)electrical induced processes in halide perovskite materials. A proven track record in the fabrication and characterization of (perovskite-based) photodetectors or solar cells is considered a plus.
We highly value openness and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research that spans chemistry, physics, material science, and engineering, combined with the ability to communicate effectively with scientists from various backgrounds and integrate findings for a multi-faceted approach to challenges.
Applicants should exhibit excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to prepare high-quality manuscripts and present research findings at international conferences.

Offer

We are pleased to offer a fully-funded postdoctoral research position. 
The position can commence any time soon, depending on your availability and the eventual arranging of a residence permit. 
The initial appointment is for a one-year period, with the possibility of extension based on research outcomes and performance.
You will have the opportunity to work on pioneering research in the field of optoelectronic materials with real-world applications. You will collaborate with leading experts in closely connected fields and will be encouraged to participate at international symposia, providing enriching experiences and excellent networking opportunities, further enforcing your academic profile.

Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Elke Debroye, elke.debroye@kuleuven.be.

To ensure a fair evaluation process, all applicants are kindly requested to formally apply via the designated online platform. Applications submitted through other channels or late submissions will not be considered.

Your competences matching this position can be presented through a cover letter and CV. Please include details of your past research, publications, and any relevant work experience that aligns with the project objectives. Additionally, you are encouraged to submit an official test result showing your proficiency of English (preferably at a B2 level). This can be shown by submitting one of the following:

  • IELTS: minimal scores of 7 (General Score) and no subscores below 6.5
  • TOEFL: minimal scores of 94 (General Score) and no subscores below 22

Looking forward to your application and possibly welcoming you to our team!

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.

Informatie over de vacature

Functienaam
Screening charge transport in bulk and at interfaces of perovskite-based radiation detectors – Postdoctoral Research position
Werkgever
Locatie
Oude Markt 13 Leuven, België
Gepubliceerd
2024-05-07
Uiterste sollicitatiedatum
2024-05-22 23:59 (Europe/Brussels)
2024-05-22 23:59 (CET)
Soort functie
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Over de werkgever

KU Leuven is an autonomous university. It was founded in 1425. It was born of and has grown within the Catholic tradition.

De pagina van de werkgever bekijken

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