PhD position in the field of experimental condensed matter physics

The University of Latvia, Institute of Chemical Physics offers a PhD position in the field of experimental condensed matter physics.

Topological Insulators (TIs) are a class of materials representing a new state of matter, characterized by an insulating bulk and metallic surface state. Unique properties of the TI surfaces are key ingredients in topological quantum computing and improving thermoelectric efficiency of the material. Recently exotic “topological phases” such as the Weyl semimetal and higher order TI states have been discovered also in some Transition Metal Dichalcogenides (TMD), allowing to combine properties of the topological surface or edge states with the phenomenology of 2D materials.

The above mentioned research work will be conducted within the project “Topological semimetals towards low-dissipation electronics”, funded by the Latvian Council of Science, in close cooperation between the Institute of Chemical Physics of the University of Latvia (ICP, https://www.kfi.lu.lv/en/) and the Institute of Solid State Physics (ISSP) of the University of Latvia.

The objective of the project is to controllably access topologically protected charge transport on the edge in state of the art topological Transition Metal Dichalcogenides, instrumental for providing dissipationless and unidirectional flow of carriers towards topological electronics and spintronics.

The thesis work will consist of two main parts: a) 2D TMD material (WTe2, MoTe2) growth by the CVD method, producing thin films on various substrates (also 2D materials), and nanowires; followed by an extensive characterization (SEM, EDX, AFM at ICP, and Raman, HR-TEM, XPS – in collaboration with ISSP). b) Nanofabrication (EBL and other required tools in the cleanroom environment https://www.cfi.lu.lv/en/research/nanotechnology-center/) and comprehensive transport measurements at low temperatures, using PPMS-9T equipment. PhD student will also develop theoretical models for experimental charge transport characterisation devices (COMSOL).

Requirements for the position:
Profile of the applicant

• Master degree in chemistry or physics;
• Hands – on experience in experimental work (preferably with a focus on nanofabrication and charge transport characterization);
• Affinity for practical work;
• Proficiency in spoken and written English;
• Interest in learning nanofabrication and experimental techniques of transport measurements at low temperatures;
• Initiative in interpretation of scientific data.

Description of tasks

• Fabrication of TMD nanomaterial based devices for studies of “edge state” transport;
• Growth and characterization of TMD materials (nanowires and thin films) and their heterostructures with other 2D materials;
• Charge transport measurements, magnetotransport;
• Data analysis; 
• Preparation of scientific publications;
• Participation at international conferences/workshops.

Contact information:
In order to apply for the position, please send your CV, including a list of publications (if any), letters of motivation and recommendation, and copies of certificates by clicking "Apply", with a reference to LZP-vacancy.