Job description

Printed opto-electronics based on solution processable colloidal semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) can make available a much-needed small footprint, low cost and flexible platform for optical sensing, imaging and spectroscopy in the technologically relevant short and mid-wave infrared (IR) spectrum (1.5 μm – 5 μm). However, while this revolution took place in the visible spectrum, and is happening at the side of detection for infrared light, QD-based IR light source technology is currently expensive, lacking performance and is based on colloidal nanomaterials made of restricted chemical elements. To push these materials to efficient light emission, we will study the fundamental infrared light-matter interactions in QDs, aimed at increasing (stimulated) light emission efficiency. To do this, we will build a custom ultrafast (femtosecond) & broadband IR optical spectroscopy setup. This will allow us to answer many fundamental questions related to the QD’s organic/inorganic interface , such as energy transfer from inorganic to organic sub-phases on femto-second time scales, and how to optimize spontaneous & stimulated IR emission, a largely unknown field. Together with colleagues in Germany (RUB), we will also dive into multi-dimensional infrared spectroscopy – an analogue of NMR spectroscopy with optical light pulses.

Your job will be to develop your own advanced femtosecond spectroscopy setup, analyse completely novel nanostructured (1-10 nm) materials developed in the team and build photo-physical models to understand their behaviour on extreme , femtosecond, timescales. You will be part of a 6-person team – composed of chemists , physicists and engineers - focused on the same goal, to realize printable infrared opto-electronics.

Note that there are 3 positions available with this profile. The emphasis from topic-to-topic is slightly different in terms of spectral coverage (short wave infrared (1.5 – 2.5 micrometer) ; mid-infrared (2.5 – 10 micrometer) and mid-infrared but with a multi-dimensional twist).

For more information: https://www.nano.ugent.be/content/jobs
or read:
Nature Mater 17, 35–42 (2018)
ACS Nano 2018, 12, 10, 10178–10188
J. Chem. Phys. 158, 014202 (2023)

Job profile

You will work on building custom advanced optical setups, using them to study nanomaterials and develop consequently photo-physical models for light-matter interactions in these nanostructured materials. This requires a strong background in nano-materials physics (semiconductor, quantum mechanics) and optics. Hence, a Msc degree in (Applied) Physics, Photonics Engineering or other relevant fields is required !

Furthermore:

• Experience with optical setups and programming languages (python, C, Labview) is an important asset.
• A good knowledge of English (oral and written) is a must. Dutch is a surplus but not required.
• You work independently, have a strong feeling of responsibility and can commit to timing and milestones set forward by the project.
• This is a very hands-on project, you have to take up responsibility in the lab to make your project work.

How to apply

Send your application (see below) to Pieter.geiregat@ugent.be with the heading “Application NOMISS_Last name_First name”

For the application itself:

• Check the requirements and job descriptions thoroughly, only relevant profiles will be contacted for an interview ! Mention the position number in your e-mail heading you want to apply for.
• Provide a clear CV & Bsc/MSc transcripts with grading.
• If you have publications, please highlight and explain your role in those projects.
• A motivation letter related to this project and your desired position, and why you are interested a PhD in general.
• Master thesis, or excerpt and/or previous reports (Bachelor Project, ...)
• 2 relevant references (both professorial academic and non-academic are allowed) that can be contacted.
  
  

Application Deadline = May 1st 2023. Short-listed applicants will be contacted for interview sessions shortly after.