SHORT DESCRIPTION
PhD on synthesis of inorganic nanowires using a new method based on floating catalyst CVD, and their assembly as macroscopic structures for energy applications.
OTHER DETAILS
IMDEA Materials Institute is a public research organization founded in 2007 by Madrid’s regional government to carry out research of excellence in Material Science and Engineering by attracting talent from all over the world to work in an international and multidisciplinary environment. IMDEA Materials has grown rapidly since its foundation and currently includes more than 120 researchers from 22 nationalities and has become one of the leading research centers in materials in Europe which has received the María de Maeztu seal of excellence from the Spanish government. The research activities have been focused on the areas of materials for transport, energy, and health care and the Institute has state-of-the-art facilities for processing, characterization and simulation of advanced materials.
More information can be found at our webpage.
This project deals with the synthesis of networks of nanowires using a new process developed by the group, whereby nanowires are grown at ultra-fast rates floating in the gas phase from an aerosol of catalyst nanoparticles. The overall aim of the PhD is to apply this new method to multiple types of inorganic nanowires. One of the objectives is to study the reaction mechanism leading to nanowire growth for different chemistries, with a particular focus on semiconductor nanowires. Another general objective is to produce new materials, in the form of macroscopic networks of nanowires, and study their bulk mechanical and electrochemical properties. The student will continuously help in the design and construction of state-of the art chemical vapour deposition synthesis equipment. He/she will perform extensive synthesis experiments and regularly conduct multi-scale materials characterisation measurements, for example through electron microscopy, spectroscopic techniques and advanced X-ray diffraction. The PhD student will work in a very collaborative team, funded by an ERC Consolidator Grant. A short secondment in a laboratory of European collaborators is likely.
Master’s and undergraduate degree in a discipline related to inorganic chemistry, nanofabrication, materials science, or chemical engineering.
Strong interest in experimental work is essential.
Previous experience on thermocatalytic synthesis of nanomaterials, thin-film deposition methods, familiarity with aerosol science and/or construction of instrumentation will be positively evaluated.
Command of written and spoken English is a prerequisite.
Screening of candidates will begin immediately. Short-listed candidates will be invited for an initial interview via Zoom, even before the closing date.
The position includes a full-time contract with social security coverage.
Applications are processed upon reception. The position might be closed once ten working days have passed since publication, so we encourage early application.
The working language of the Institute is English. Full command of the English language is required in all positions.
WHAT YOU WILL FIND AT IMDEA:
Stimulating environment where you can grow professionally.
IMDEA Materials Institute is committed to equal opportunities, diversity and the promotion of a healthy work environment and work-life balance. Female applicants are encouraged to apply to our research and technical positions. See our Gender Equality Plan here and our Code of Ethics here.
Besides on-the-job technical training, IMDEA Materials Institute is committed to training the Institute’s scientists and staff in “soft” or transversal skills. See the available training here.
Meet some of our alumni to see what it is like to work with us.