Last application date Jun 15, 2025 00:00
Department WE04 - Department of Solid State Sciences
Contract Limited duration
Degree Master of Science in Physics, Chemistry, Engineering Physics or Chemical Engineering
Occupancy rate 100%
Vacancy type Research staff
Job description
The CoCooN research group is looking for a m/f/x Doctoral fellow.
CONTEXT
Atomic layer deposition (ALD) is a cutting-edge nanofabrication technique that enables atomic-scale control over the growth of ultra-thin films. It is essential to the microelectronics industry and is increasingly being explored for the design of energy materials and catalysts. A recent and exciting development in this field is photo-assisted ALD, which leverages light as an additional energy source to drive surface reactions. This approach holds promise for improving process efficiency and broadening material capabilities. However, the underlying reaction mechanisms remain poorly understood, limiting precise control over the resulting film properties.
This PhD project will explore how specific process parameters influence photo-induced surface reactions and the formation of nanoparticles and thin films. The research will combine in situ spectroscopic techniques with advanced synchrotron-based X-ray characterization to monitor and analyze the ALD process in real time. The insights gained will support the development of experimentally guided strategies for optimizing photo-assisted ALD, ultimately enabling the precise fabrication of functional nanomaterials in the field of catalysis.
ABOUT CoCooN
The research will take place in the Conformal Coating of Nanomaterials (CoCooN) research group at the Department of Solid State Sciences (https://www.ugent.be/we/solidstatesciences/cocoon/en). The group is internationally recognized for its ALD expertise and has extensive experience in advanced characterization methods, both in-house and at leading synchrotron facilities abroad. This research is part of a collaborative project at Ghent University, and the PhD candidate will be closely integrated into a dedicated research team, benefiting from mentorship and collaboration in a dynamic research environment.
YOUR JOB
- You will perform experimental research in preparation of a PhD thesis, in-house at CoCooN and at synchrotron facilities abroad. The research will cover atomic layer deposition, in situ spectroscopy and X-ray scattering.
- You will employ Python programming to analyze the data acquired during the research.
- You will contribute to the scientific community through publications, conference participations and collaborations.
- You will assist in the teaching activities at the Department of Solid State Sciences.
Job profile
- You hold a Master of Science degree in Physics, Chemistry, Engineering Physics, Chemical Engineering or related discipline. The diploma requirements must be met by the date of appointment. Students graduating this academic year can therefore apply.
- You show a strong interest in nanomaterials, structure analysis, spectroscopy and synchrotron big data science.
- You are proficient in Python programming, essential for handling and processing the substantial amount of data involved in this research.
- You have good oral and written communication skills, and are fluent in English.
- You are committed to obtaining a PhD by the end of the 4-year project.
WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU
- We offer a full-time position as a doctoral fellow, consisting of an initial period of 12 months, which - after a positive evaluation - will be extended with an addition period of maximally 36 months, in total amounting to 48 months.
- Your contract will start on August 01, 2025 at the earliest.
- The fellowship amount is 100% of the net salary of an AAP member in equal family circumstances. The individual fellowship amount is determined by Team Personnel Administration based on family status and seniority. A grant that meets the conditions and criteria of the regulations for doctoral fellowships is considered free of personal income tax. Click here for more information about our salary scales
- All Ghent University staff members enjoy a number of benefits, such as a wide range of training and education opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave (on an annual basis for a full-time job) supplemented by annual fixed bridge days, bicycle allowance and eco vouchers. Click here for a complete overview of all the staff benefits.
How to apply
Send your full CV including your academic/education history, experience with experimental work and programming, list of publications where applicable, copy of your diploma (if already in your possession) and a motivation letter to [email protected], using the subject line “Application ALD PhD”. We do not accept late applications.
For more information about this vacancy, please contact Prof. Jolien Dendooven ([email protected], +32(0)9/264 43 65)
