PhD Position - Scanning tunneling study of exotic superconductivity

About this position

Area of research:

PHD Thesis

Job description: PhD Position - Scanning tunneling study of exotic superconductivity

Open positions are available in the quantum nanoscience department of the Peter Grünberg Institute, PGI-3

www.fz-juelich.de/de/pgi/pgi-3

and have the goal to advance the material basis for topological quantum computing. Funding is supported by the German Research Foundation (DFG). One-dimensional topological superconductivity is an exotic state of matter, which is not found in nature.

However, this exotic quantum state is proposed to be realized in hybrid material systems, which combine nontrivial band topology with superconductivity, and has promising properties for potential applications in quantum computing. Our goal is to study hybrid topological insulator nanowires and flakes, to engineer nontrivial superconductivity via proximity effects and to study their properties using advanced scanning tunneling microscopy (STM).

Your Job

We look for excellent candidates who are interested in experimental work on superconductivity. Samples will be fabricated on site, with lithographic patterning performed at the Helmholtz Nanofacility (HNF), a state-of-the-art cleanroom, and studied in our scanning tunneling microscopes, at low temperatures and in magnetic fields.

Your primary scientific tasks will be:

• Preparation of STM tips and samples, including cleanroom nanofabrication
• Conduction of experiments and data analysis
• Work in an international group environment
• Collaboration with internal and external project partners
• Preparation of scientific publications and presentations
• Participation in conferences in Germany and abroad
• Supervision of Master students (optional)

Your Profile

• Masters degree in Physics or Material Science, with excellent grades
• High degree of independence and commitment
• Analytic problem solving capabilities and creativity
• Reliable and thorough working style
• Experience in at least one of the following: Scanning probe microscopy, transport measurements, superconductivity
• Programming experience, for scripting and data analysis
• Very good command of written and spoken English with extensive vocabulary is required (at least B2 level according to the CEFR

), ideally supported by a certificate confirming the language level. Knowledge of the German language is not mandatory but certainly appreciated

Our Benefits for You

We work on highly topical, socially relevant issues and offer you the opportunity to actively shape change! You can expect a wide range of opportunities:

• Meaningful tasks: The position offers a varied and diverse role in an international environment
• Research & Infrastrukture: State-of-the-art low temperature scanning probe microscopes and cleanroom as well as an outstanding scientific and technical infrastructure
• Exchange: A highly motivated working group and international working environment at one of Europe’s largest research establishments
• Networking : with the Ernst Ruska-Centre for Microscopy and Spectroscopy with electrons as well as Dr. rer. Nat. / PhD dissertation at University of Cologne and membership of the JuDocs graduate center at Jülich and the Bonn-Cologne Graduate School, with all their offers
• Support: We will accompany your doctoral studies with continuous, expert guidance from your academic supervisor and a training in quantum technologies, a field that proposes significant investment from private and governmental funding agencies over the next decades
• Supervision : Early exposure to international collaborations and conferences
• Work-life balance: Optimal conditions for balancing work and private life, as well as a family-friendly company policy. The option of flexible working (in terms of location) is generally available after consultation and in line with upcoming tasks and (on-site) appointments
• Vacation: You will receive 30 days of vacation (depending on the chosen working time model)
• Knowledge & further training: Your professional development is important to us – we provide targeted, individual support
• Health & well-being: Your health is important to us. You can look forward to a comprehensive occupational health management program with a wide range of offerings - e.g., a beach volleyball court, running groups, yoga classes, and much more. In addition, our company medical service and an experienced social counseling team are available to assist you on site
• Campus experience: Our research campus in the countryside creates ideal conditions for collegial exchange and sporting activities right on site. Our cafeteria offers a wide range of options—you can enjoy a relaxing lunch break with a lake view
• Successful start: It is important to us that you quickly settle into the team and are given structured training for your tasks. We also support you from the very beginning and make your start easier with our Welcome Days and Welcome Guide
• Fair remuneration: Depending on your existing qualifications and the tasks assigned to you, you will be classified in pay grade EG 13 (65 %) of the TVöD-Bund (Collective Agreement for the Public Service). All information on the TVöD-Bund collective agreement can be found on theBMI website

. The monthly salaries in euros can be found on page 69 ff. of the PDF download

• Fixed-term: The position is limited to 3 years
• Support for international employees: Our International Advisory Service makes it easier for international employees to get started
• Career Center: You will receive explicit support with regard to your career development opportunities

In addition to exciting tasks and a collegial working environment, we offer you much more:

go.fzj.de/benefits

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.

The following links provide further information on diversity and equal opportunities:

go.fzj.de/equality

and on specific support options for women: go.fzj.de/womens-job-journey

• *Place of Employment:**Jülich

Start Date: To the next possible date

Salary: Pay group 13 (65%) TVöD-Bund

• *Application Deadline:**The position will be published until it is successfully filled

Index number: 2026D-0636

Application Process

FAQ

Contact form

Career portal

Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH

Legal Notice

This research center is part of the Helmholtz Association of German Research Centers. With more than 42,000 employees and an annual budget of over € 5 billion, the Helmholtz Association is Germany's largest scientific organisation.