The Wide Band Gap Materials research group (WBGM) at IMO-IMOMEC invites driven and talented individuals to apply for an experimental doctoral research position in materials physics, with a special emphasis on pioneering studies of hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) and cutting-edge MXenes. This exciting research aims to unravel the fundamental aspects of nucleation and growth behaviours of these advanced materials by fine-tuning parameters such as process gases and substrate materials (including silicon, diamond, and metals) during RF sputtering. Hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) and MXenes are at the forefront of materials research for potential applications in nanoelectronics, quantum photonics, and energy storage. Through comprehensive morphological and structural analyses, combined with advanced optical and electrical characterization techniques, this study seeks to pave the way for innovative device structures.

We are looking for a self-motivated and inquisitive candidate who can build upon existing research and explore future applications. The WBGM group offers a stimulating, multidisciplinary, and open working environment with an international focus, providing the perfect platform for cutting-edge research in materials science.

In addition to your project, other tasks are:

• Develop transferable and networking skills by participating in national and international conferences;
• Participate in teaching (lab classes, problem classes, ...) and organizing workshops/symposia;
• Fulfil the requirements of the "Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology".

The Wide Band Gap Materials research group (Prof. dr. Ken Haenen & Prof. dr. Paulius Pobedinskas) specializes in the deposition, characterization, and applications of thin hBN films. More than 20 years of expertise is available in the use of physical vapor deposition (PVD) for the growth hBN films. In addition to hBN, there are research activities on other wide band gap materials such as diamond, aluminium nitride, etc. The group has a very extensive network of national and international partnerships, and is an internationally oriented group that will offer a stimulating multidisciplinary and open working environment.

WBGM is part of the Institute for Materials Research (IMO-IMOMEC) (http://www.uhasselt.be/IMO) at Hasselt University. In the U-Multirank of the European Commission, Hasselt University is one of the ten best higher education institutions (2022). UHasselt is 35^th in the Times Higher Education ranking of the best universities in the world under the age of 50 (2023).

This PhD project is formally part of the Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology at the Faculty of Sciences of Hasselt University. More information at https://www.uhasselt.be/doctoral-school-sciences-and-technology.

• You obtained a master's degree in Physics, Chemistry, or Engineering. (or equivalent)
  Final-year students are (likewise) encouraged to apply.
• You are interested in deposition techniques, wide band gap semiconductors, 2D materials, and fundamental physics. Experience in these fields is an asset.
• You are well organized and dedicated to performing a practical experiment in the best way, ensuring that technical instruments are employed / calibrated in the right way.
• You are cooperative and can work well in teams.
• You possess good relational, communicative and reporting skills to function within a multidisciplinary research group.
• You are able to report clearly and regularly.
• You are fluent in written and oral communication in English. Knowledge of Dutch is an asset.

You will be appointed and paid as PhD student.
We offer you a PhD scholarship for 2 years, renewable for 2 years following a positive evaluation.

The selection procedure consists of a preselection based on application file and an interview.
A letter of recommendation from the supervisor of your master thesis is required. You also attach a CV and a convincing personal statement focusing on your personal background and/or experience that clearly demonstrates your aspirations and competencies for pursuing doctoral studies in the given research topic.

Apply now
Apply up to 15.09.2024