International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory Careers

Research Scientist Group Leader - 2D Materials and Devices

Job Reference: Ref.73.25.414/1

Employer: International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL)

Location: Braga, Portugal

Group/Unit: 2D Materials and Devices

Number of Vacancies: 1

Employment Type: Full time

Contract Duration: 48 months

Open Date for Applications: July 2nd, 2026

Closing Date for Applications: August 2nd, 2026, 23h00m (Lisbon Time)

Key words: #2Dmaterialsdevices #nanoelectronics #CVD #MOCVD

Overview

The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) is seeking an internationally recognised research leader to head the 2D Materials & Devices Research Group. The successful candidate will develop a world-class research program focused on the realisation of scalable device technologies based on two-dimensional materials, combining wafer-scale material growth, advanced nanofabrication, and device integration.

The research programme is expected to leverage INL's unique research infrastructure, including state-of-the-art MOCVD and CVD facilities, low temperature probe station, comprehensive cleanroom nanofabrication capabilities, advanced materials and device characterisation and integration platforms. Priority research directions include:

• Scalable growth of high-quality 2D materials and heterostructures using CVD, MOCVD and related wafer-scale synthesis approaches.
• Design, fabricate and characterise functional devices based on xtransition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), hBN, graphene and related materials.
• Device concepts for, in order of priority: nanoelectronics, optoelectronics, neuromorphic computing, biosensing, and other emerging technologies enabled by large-area 2D materials targeting energy efficient devices and systems.
• Integration of novel materials into manufacturable device platforms with a clear pathway towards scalable technologies.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to shape the future scientific direction of the group with scientific independence, within the framework of the general research strategy of INL. INL offers the possibility for the new Group Leader to integrate existing staff researchers and technical personnel currently associated with the group, should the group leader wish to do so, while maintaining full flexibility to define the future research strategy, team composition, and scientific direction of the group.

This position provides an outstanding environment for building an internationally competitive research program and is well aligned with European funding opportunities, including ERC. Outstanding candidates at all career stages are encouraged to apply. Applications from exceptional early-career researchers (typically with less than three years of postdoctoral experience), as well as from established and internationally recognized senior researchers are equally welcome.

Job Duties

• Lead and develop an internationally competitive research programme in scalable 2D material device technologies with emphasis on ICT.
• Exploit INL's advanced MOCVD, cleanroom and advanced characterisation core facilities to establish innovative device platforms.
• Develop novel electronic, optoelectronic, ionic and sensing devices based on graphene, hBN, TMDs and related heterostructures.
• Establish ambitious research directions that combine scalable materials growth with advanced device fabrication and integration.
• Secure competitive research funding from national, European (including ERC Starting, Consolidator and Advanced Grants) and international programmes.

Mandatory Qualifications

Education

• PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Nanotechnology, Materials Science or related fields.

Experience and Technical Skills

• Strong postdoctoral research record in 2D materials devices.
• Demonstrated expertise in device fabrication, large-scale 2D material synthesis (e.g., CVD, MOCVD, LPE), and their integration into functional systems.
• Evidence of independent scientific leadership, including impactful publications and innovative research achievements.

Other Valued Skills

• Proficiency in device design and full awareness of relevant cleanroom nanofabrication.
• Deep knowledge of 2D materials and their electronic, ionic, or optoelectronic and thermal functionalities.
• Experience with scalable growth and processing of 2D materials, including sustainable and up scalable approaches.
• Strong command of structural, optical and transport characterisation techniques and willingness to extend to bespoke characterisation traceable methods.
• Track record in collaborative, multi-institutional research projects.
• Ability to formulate a strategic research vision and communicate it effectively.

Personal Skills

• Leadership skills and proved commitment to mentoring early-career researchers
• Excellent communication skills.
• “Hands-on” approach and demonstrated ability to work to deadlines.
• Creative approach to research as well as problem-solving ability.
• Ability to work independently, as team player and as research leader.
• Demonstrated ability to network at international level.

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

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.

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.

It 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.