Post doctoral Researcher in thin-film transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) devices for rigid and flexible substrates

RD-7 Postdoctoral Researcher in thin-film transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) devices for rigid and flexible substrates

Contract: Full Time/Fixed Term

Tyndall National Institute is a leading European research centre in integrated ICT (Information and Communications Technology) hardware and systems, specialising in both electronics and photonics – materials, devices, circuits and systems. In this project, we aim to carry out basic and applied research aligned in the area of novel functional materials applicable to active components in sensors, nano- and opto-electronics. More specifically, we are targeting to substantially increase the scalability, functionality, performance, and energy efficiency of electronic devices while keeping full compatibility with existing mass production technologies. The technical challenge involves the material modification of layered 2D semiconductors by advanced pulsed laser thermal treatment with timescales in the order of femto- to nano- seconds. This research aligns with Tyndall's ‘CMOS++' mission of developing ‘Deep Tech Innovation' for next generation ICT.

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) are a branch of 2D semiconductor materials that have high surface to volume ratios. TMDs impart very useful properties that can be exploited by the electronic device industry, ranging from switching devices in display technology, to high sensitivity gas sensors, and MOSFETs. Nanosecond pulsed laser annealing (PLA) has demonstrated benefits in its limited heat diffusion at nanosecond time scales, the thermal treatment is confined to the top 10-100 nm of the surface. The goal of this project is to enable the material modification of TMD semiconductors by femtosecond PLA processes ranging from infra-red to UV wavelengths. The project outputs aim to alleviate integrated circuit technology issues, and to enable new applications for thin-film TMDs on large area rigid and flexible substrates. Combining the skills of co-research teams in Tyndall and University of Galway, along with Academic Collaborators in the US and UK, our research team strives to implement collaborative research to unlock the unique synergy stemming from the complementarity of our expertise.

We now wish to hire a Postdoctoral Researcher in thin-film transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) devices for rigid and flexible substrates.

Key Responsibilities

The research duties of this particular position will involve elements of the following:

Work with the supervisor and other team members to deliver the outputs of the project.

Coordinate and execute implementation of experimental work, including semiconductor processing, device and material metrology, presentation of data and interpretation of data.

Literature review the subject area to benchmark new data against existing knowledge.

Fabricate thin-film TMD electronic devices, and extract field-effect transistor (FET) figures of merit.

Draw conclusions on FET figures of merit extracted, based on semiconductor device physics. Comparing device behaviour on different substrates will be a key objective.

Explore to what extent PLA processing affects the conductive and carrier mobility electrical behaviour in TMD devices, and correlate with material properties through hybrid metrology.

Undertake studies of PLA-TMD interactions to tune metal/TMD contacts, to precision tune the device contact.

Collaborate with internal and external researchers.

Utilise an independent approach to carry the project work forward.

Report results to team leaders, partners, and funding agencies.

Support the dissemination of research progress through publications in the top-tier journals and at leading conferences in the field.

Contribute to partial supervision of postgraduate and undergraduate student/s.

Communicate the benefits of the research to wider society through active participation in several Education and Public Engagement activities, as required.

Ensure all activities are compliant with the Tyndall Quality Management system.

Ensure all activities are compliant with the required Health and Safety standards.

Carry out any additional duties as may reasonably be required within the general scope and level of the post.

Essential Criteria

PhD in materials sciences, engineering, chemistry, physics or related discipline.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Capability of working effectively within a team to achieve results.

Highly self-motivated, be able to demonstrate initiative and have a desire to learn.

A strong publication record.

Demonstrated knowledge of material science and device characterisation is essential.

An ability to identify research challenges and opportunities within the semiconductor materials field.

Self-motivation, initiative, and being achievement-oriented.

A demonstrated capability in the delivery of research projects.

Desirable Criteria

Past experience in deep learning is highly advantageous.

Past experience in interacting with business stakeholders, as well as other stakeholders, is also a plus.

The postdoctoral researcher will receive support to develop their career and will receive training and mentorship in funding proposal applications.

Appointment may be made on the IUA Researcher Scale €41,207 - €47,477 per annum. Salary placement on appointment will be in accordance with public sector pay policy.

Informal enquiries can be made in confidence to Ray Duffy at [email protected]

Application Instructions

Step 1 - clickhere to download and complete the application form and indicate Job Reference RD-7

Step 2 – return completed application form, together with your CV and motivation letter [email protected]

Please ensure that your motivation letter, CV and application letter are submitted in pdf format.

Please note that Garda vetting and/or an international police clearance check may form part of the selection process.

The University, at its discretion, may undertake to make an additional appointment(s) from this competition following the conclusion of the process.

At this time, Tyndall National Institute does not require the assistance of recruitment agencies.

Tyndall National Institute at University College, Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer.