deposition
Are you fascinated by the miniaturization of electronic structures and how that enables a range of other technologies from mobile computing to artificial intelligence? And do you want to contribute to pushing the miniaturization of materials to the atomic level?
Position
PhD-student
Irène Curie Fellowship
No
Department(s)
Applied Physics and Science Education
FTE
1,0
Date off
15/01/2023
Reference number
V34.6119
Job descriptionResearch
The goal of this PhD project is to synthesize materials using atoms as building blocks in a bottom-up fashion. The fabrication of nanoelectronics currently relies almost completely on top-down processing, which is becoming more and more demanding at the nanoscale dimensions of future devices. While the ambition of using atomic building blocks connects to Feynman's vision formulated in his lecture “ There is plenty of room at the bottom ”, the realisation of bottom-up fabrication still remains a challenge, especially when considering approaches that can employed for high-volume manufacturing.
In this PhD project, innovative schemes for bottom-up fabrication will be realized by developing approaches for area-selective atomic layer deposition (ALD). The challenge of making ALD processes selective to specific locations currently suffers from a lack of understanding of how ALD growth can effectively be blocked on surfaces where no growth is desired. See for more information the blog of our group, e.g. https: // www. atomiclimits.com/2018/12/21/towards-area-selective-atomic-layer- deposition-with-high-selectivity-our-perspective-on-area-selective-ald/ and https: // www. atomiclimits.com/2022/04/18/area-selective-ald-of-diffusion- barriers-for-via-optimization-there-is-plenty-of-room-at-the-bottom/.
Project & Job description
We are looking for a PhD student who is interested in performing experimental studies towards the development of area-selective ALD approaches. A variety of experimental techniques will be employed to obtain fundamental insights into the growth and the surface chemistry such as in-situ ellipsometry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. In order to demonstrate selective processes, depositions will be performed on patterned samples, and analyzed by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. These experimental studies will be complemented with theoretical studies together with other project members. The project will be carried out in strong collaboration with several industrial partners in the semiconductor industry.
Location
The work will be performed in the group Plasma & Materials Processing and in the NanoLab cleanroom at the Department of Applied Physics at the TU/e. The PMP group focuses on the advancement of the science and technology of plasma and materials processing, a research area which is in essence multidisciplinary and encompasses the research fields of plasma physics, surface science, and materials science. The scientific objective of the group is to obtain “atomic” level understanding of the interaction of plasmas and gases with materials.
Job requirementsQualifications:
For this PhD position, we are looking for a highly talented, enthusiastic, and exceptionally motivated candidate with MSc degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, (Applied) Physics, Electrical Engineering, or similar. The candidate must have a strong background in either chemistry or physics. Experience in the areas of surface science or thin film deposition would be an asset. To facilitate the collaboration within the project, the candidate should have interest in the interpretation of theoretical studies, as well as in device fabrication schemes. Good communication skills in English (both written and spoken) are required.
Responsibilities and tasks:
Job Requirements
A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:
About us
Eindhoven University of Technology is an internationally top-ranking university in the Netherlands that combines scientific curiosity with a hands- on attitude. Our spirit of collaboration translates into an open culture and a top-five position in collaborating with advanced industries. Fundamental knowledge enables us to design solutions for the highly complex problems of today and tomorrow. Curious to hear more about what it's like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video.
Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more about the vacancy? Please contact Dr.ir. A.J.M. Mackus (e-mail a.j.m.mackusattue.nl).
Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact HR Services (e-mail HRServices.Fluxattue.nl).
Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.
Application
Applications should include:
Screening of applications will start as soon as applications are received and will continue until the position has been filled.