PhD position in 2D materials

We offer an exciting PhD position as part of an interdisciplinary project funded by the bilateral project with national funding focused on collaboration with MIT, Cambridge USA in the field of 2D materials and hosted by the Department of Inorganic Chemistry at the University of Chemistry and Technology (UCT) in Prague. This project focuses on CVD and crystal growth of layered chalcogenides, halogenides and related compounds, a cutting-edge class of 2D materials, for advanced electronic and nanotechnology applications.

The successful candidate will gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment, work in an international collaborative team, and contribute to developing high-performance materials for technological applications.

Key scientific goals:

1. Crystal growth by various methods and CVD deposition of nanostructures;
2. Exfoliation and deterministic transfer, fabrication of devices and their characterization;
3. Collaboration with cooperation group on MIT with focus on advanced TEM method and atomic manipulation for new quantum technologies fabrication;
4. Assess the EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) of synthesized MXenes, focusing on their electrical conductivity and dielectric permittivity;
5. Investigate the dispersion of MXenes in polymer matrices to enhance the mechanical robustness and chemical resistance of resulting composites.

If you are interested and want to contribute to the rapidly growing field of 2D materials research and be part of an innovative project in materials science, we encourage you to apply!

What we offer

• The doctoral candidate will be enrolled in a PhD program at the Faculty of Chemical Technology, UCT Prague.
• Conduct research in a recognized international research group with active worldwide collaborations and a strong track record in securing national and international grants.
• Access to state-of-the-art equipment and cutting-edge research facilities.
• Full-time employment for 48 months at UCT Prague, with a gross annual salary of approximately 420,000 CZK. The salary can be supplemented in the second year through internal calls (e.g., IGA projects) and other scholarships offered at UCT Prague.
• Employment benefits include a 40-hour working week, flexible working hours, 6 weeks of vacation, meals allowance, access to in-house language courses, and institutional childcare.
• Relocation assistance to the Czech Republic is provided by experienced staff of the Welcome Office.
• The opportunity to work in Prague, a vibrant city at the heart of Europe with excellent global transport connections.
• Convenient access to the UCT Prague by public transport, located just three metro stations from the Old Town and near the airport.
• Accommodation options are available at UCT Prague’s halls of residence (Sázava and Volha), which have all amenities nearby.
• Special employee rates for recreational facilities of UCT Prague, including locations in Pec pod Sněžkou, an active alpine resort in the Krkonoše National Park.

Skills/ Qualifications

• Applicants must hold a master’s or engineering degree in chemistry, chemical physics, solid state physics or materials science, or a related field focusing on the synthesis and processing of 2D materials.
• Knowledge and practical experience with crystal growth, CVD and PVD deposition and device fabrication are highly welcomed.
• Ability to work independently, demonstrate lab responsibility, and strong collaborative skills.
• A proactive attitude and desire to work in an interdisciplinary team.
• Excellent communication skills in English (written and oral).

How to apply

Your application should include the following documents:

• Cover letter detailing your motivation for the position.
• Curriculum vitae (with a potential list of publications and/or conference participation) and the contact information of one reference.
• A scanned verified (true) copy of the Diploma/Graduation Certificate and Transcript of Records.

Please send your application to research.sofergroup@gmail.com and zdenek.sofer@vscht.cz with the required documents. Include the reference “PhD MXene-LAMS” in the subject line of your email when sending the application.

Short-listed candidates will be invited to an online interview.

Closing date for applications: 31 Jan 2025.

About UCT Prague

The University of Chemistry and Technology Prague (UCT Prague) is one of the largest Central European educational and research centers performing cutting-edge research focused on chemistry, chemical and biochemical technologies, material and chemical engineering, food science, environmental studies and related disciplines. UCT Prague collaborates with more than 100 academic institutions worldwide, is active in industrial R&D, technology transfer and a wide range of projects supported by national and international providers, including Horizon Europe, COST, EEA/Norway Grants or Czech-UNDP Partnership for SDGs.

In QS World University Rankings, UCT Prague ranks 35th in the world in the Faculty Student Ratio thanks to the individual approach and a natural involvement of students in the research process.