Research Staff (m/f/d) in the field of Diamond-based microsystems

 

Nestled in a modern city surrounded by nature and with an exceptional standard of living, Leibniz University Hannover offers excellent working conditions in a vibrant scientific community.

The Institute of Micro Production Technology welcomes applications for the following position starting 1st October 2024: Research Staff (m/f/d) in the field of Diamond-based microsystems (salary scale 13 TV-L, 100 %)

The fixed-term position ends 30th September 2027.

Your role

• You will be involved in the planning and coordination of research activities in the field of diamond-based microsystems.
• You will work with interdisciplinary teams and external partners.
• As part of your work at the Institute of Micro Production Technology, you will have the opportunity to complete a doctorate (Dr. Ing.) on a challenging production technology topic.
• You will gain leadership experience in the supervision of students in the context of final theses and research assistantships.
• You will be expected to publish your results in prestigious, peer-reviewed and international journals as well as at national and international conferences.

Context of research

Micro-systems incorporating miniaturised mechanical or optical elements into electronic circuits are increasingly being utilised in a wide range of applications, including telecommunications, automotive sensors, environmental monitoring, and medical devices. Within many of these applications, the utilisation of diamond and its unique set of material properties stands to significantly improve device performance and unlock a host of novel research avenues. For example, the unrivalled Young’s modulus enables the creation of micro-mechanical resonators capable of filtering RF signals at ultra-high frequencies, the wide transparency range allows for broadband operation within on-chip photonics, and the biocompatibility minimises adverse reactions with biological tissue.

This project will focus on the growth and structuring of mono- and poly-crystalline diamond to form micro-systems for use within the above applications, with a heavy focus on UHF filters for use within mobile communications. This work will be carried out through the use of the state-of-the-art diamond growth and processing facilities recently installed at the Institute of Micro Production Technology. In particular, chemical mechanical polishing will be used to reduce the roughness inherent to poly-crystalline diamond films and remove the sub-surface damage typically present within mono-crystalline diamond substrates. Devices will then be fabricated from the processed substrates using the comprehensive suite of micro-fabrication and characterisation tools within the institute’s cleanroom, including electron-beam lithography, reactive ion etching, and atomic layer deposition.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for a candidate with the following:

• A Master’s degree in a relevant STEM field
• Above-average grades are expected
• Curiosity and enthusiasm for working at the cutting edge of materials science and device fabrication
• Self-driven and capable of innovative thinking when met with project hurdles to ensure project progress
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team
• Good communication skills in English (speaking, reading, writing)
• Experience in the field of microtechnology is an advantage

Equal opportunities and diversity are core values at Leibniz University Hannover. Our goal is to tap into individual potential and open up possibilities. We therefore welcome applications from anyone interested in the position, irrespective of gender, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or ideology, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity.

We strive towards a balanced and diverse workforce and a reduction in under-representation in accordance with the Lower Saxony Equal Rights Act (Niedersächsisches Gleichberechtigungsgesetz – NGG). We therefore particularly encourage applications for the above-mentioned position from women. Preference will be given to equally-qualified candidates with disabilities.

Why join us?

As part of your work, you will have access to a first-class laboratory environment. This includes the institute's own industry-orientated clean room, which covers the entire spectrum of microtechnology. You will have the opportunity to present your research results at national and international conferences. We also offer you modern office space including your own laptop, an additional multi-monitor setup and height-adjustable desks. For meals, there is a canteen close to the campus with a wide range of options (e.g. vegan cuisine) and the institute's own kitchen with a modern dining area.

You will also benefit from our strong industry network and exciting industry projects that offer you unique opportunities for professional development. We support flexible working hours including the option to work from home to ensure an optimal work-life balance.

You will take on project responsibility and gain valuable leadership experience while working in flat hierarchies that promote quick decision-making and a dynamic working environment.

 

Additional information

For further information, please contact Dr.-Ing. Alexander Kassner (Tel.: 0511 762-18025, Email: kassner@impt.uni-hannover.de) or Dr. Evan Thomas (Tel.: 0511 762-18390, Email: thomas@impt.uni-hannover.de).

Please submit your application and supporting documents by 31st July 2024 electronically to