International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory Careers

Research Engineer – Development of neuromorphic devices based on 2D materials

Job Reference: Ref.11.24.64

Employer: International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL)

Location: Braga, Portugal

Group: Alpuim Research Group (2D Materials and Devices)

Supervisor: Dr Andrea Capasso

Number of Vacancies: 1

Employment Type: Full time

Contract Duration: 24 months*

*may be extended up to 48 months

Open Date for Applications: December 19th, 2024

Closing Date for Applications: January 12th, 2024, 23h00m (Lisbon Time)

Key words: #ChemicalVaporDeposition(CVD) #2DMaterials #Neuromorphic #Nanotechnology #AdvancedDevices

Overview

The Alpuim Research Group focuses on CVD growth, transfer, and device fabrication, using 2D materials, clean-room technology, and Raman imaging for structural characterisation. We are seeking a highly motivated and accomplished researcher with a passion for 2D materials and their applications in neuromorphic devices. This position offers the opportunity to be at the cutting edge of nanotechnology research, specifically focused on developing next-generation neuromorphic systems using 2D materials like graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). The successful candidate will play a key role in the design, fabrication, and characterisation of innovative devices that can drive advances in AI, computing, and next-generation memory technologies.

Job Duties

The successful candidate will:

• Develop 2D materials through advanced chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and other techniques, aiming at producing high-quality films optimised for neuromorphic devices;
• Characterise the materials using advanced techniques such as Raman spectroscopy, SEM, AFM, and electrical measurements;
• Fabricate and test neuromorphic devices, utilising photolithographic techniques and other cleanroom processes to create highly customised configurations;
• Design, simulate, and implement neuromorphic architectures to address challenges in next-generation memory and computing technologies;
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to integrate your findings into real-world applications and contribute to the dissemination of the results;
• Actively contribute to INL’s global leadership in the fields of nanotechnology and 2D materials through conference participation, workshops, and industrial collaborations.

Mandatory Qualifications

Education

• PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Nanotechnology, or related fields with a strong focus on 2D materials and device fabrication.

Experience

• Postdoctoral or industrial experience in nanotechnology, 2D materials (graphene, TMDs), and device fabrication;
• Demonstrated expertise in CVD techniques, cleanroom fabrication, and device characterisation.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in 2D materials growth techniques, particularly CVD;
• Hands-on experience in cleanroom environments, including advanced techniques like photolithography, thin-film deposition, and etching;
• Expertise in nanomaterial characterisation (e.g., SEM, AFM, Raman spectroscopy, XPS).

Other Skills

• Ability to design and execute experiments, analyse data, and interpret results;
• Experience in managing research projects, including planning, budgeting, and reporting;
• Ability to mentor and supervise junior researchers, students, or technicians;
• A track record of high-impact publications in relevant fields and a demonstrated ability to contribute to international collaborations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with the installation and operation of lab equipment is considered a plus.
• Familiarity with neuromorphic computing concepts and device modeling is considered a plus.

Personal Skills

• Highly creative problem-solving abilities, capable of driving research in new directions and generating novel solutions;
• Proven ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment, while also being able to work independently and meet project deadlines:
• Strong communication skills, including the ability to present complex ideas clearly and contribute to scientific discussions.

Our Benefits

• Competitive salary;
• Tax benefits and other Diplomatic privileges;
• Private health insurance;
• Family allowances (according to family situation);
• Free nursery service at INL premises (subject to availability);
• Support for education fees of dependent children;
• Relocation support;
• 30 working days of annual leave.

How to Apply

The application must be in English and include the following mandatory documents:

a)    Cover letter

b)    Curriculum Vitae

c)     Academic and/or Professional diplomas

Online application instructions:

1. The application is made online by clicking the “Apply” button;
2. The candidate must complete all required sections of the online application form;
3. The candidate must submit the mandatory documents mentioned above in pdf format by including them in the “Additional files” section using the “Add portfolio” button.

Important note:

Incomplete applications including the failure to provide mandatory documents or providing inaccurate information will result in the application not being considered.

How the Selection Process works
 

A. Applications eligibility check

This stage will be carried out on the basis of the mandatory requirements, education, experience and technical skills defined for the job, as well as the validation of the mandatory documents. Only candidates who meet the eligibility criteria will move forward to the next stage.

B. CV Assessment

The Selection Committee will evaluate the eligible applications based on their CV and other submitted documents and the suitability for the position. The best ranked candidates will be shortlisted for the interview stage(s).

C. Interview(s)

The interview(s) may be done in different formats: video recording, online or onsite.

The question based interview will evaluate the match between the candidate’s profile and the requirements for the position, including the technical and personal skills. To better support this stage, the candidate may be requested to prepare a short presentation.

D. Nomination

The selected candidate will be nominated and formally offered the position, including the disclosure of the contractual conditions. 

Additional Information

About INL

The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory – INL (http://www.inl.int), is the first and only Intergovernmental Organisation in the world entirely focused on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology. INL was founded under an international legal framework to perform interdisciplinary research, deploy and communicate nanotechnology for the benefit of society. INL aims to be a recognised leading global nanotechnology innovation hub.

At INL, you will work alongside world-class researchers in a dynamic and interdisciplinary environment. You will have access to state-of-the-art equipment, including advanced cleanroom technology, cutting-edge fabrication techniques, and high-end characterisation tools which will position your research at the forefront of technological innovation with global impact.

Application feedback

We highly value your interest in becoming part of the INL experience and it is important for us to maintain good communications with all candidates. No matter the outcome of your application, we will always provide you with feedback.

Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Principle

INL follows a non-discrimination and equal access principle, wherefore no candidate can be privileged, benefited, impaired or deprived of any rights whatsoever, or be exempt of and duties based on any possible discriminatory issues.

The advertisement deadline may be extended at any time without previous notice in order to improve the suitability and effectiveness of the recruitment process.