PhD in ‘From fundamental electronic structure theory to quantum devices‘

Tyndall National Institute
March 15, 2024
Contact:N/A
Offerd Salary:€22,000
Location:N/A
Working address:N/A
Contract Type:Fixed Term
Working Time:Full time
Working type:N/A
Ref info:N/A

GF-14 PhD student in ‘From fundamental electronic structure theory to quantum devices‘

Contract: Full Time/Fixed Term

Tyndall National Institute is a leading European research centre in integrated ICT (Information and Communications Technology) hardware and systems, specialising in both electronics and photonics – materials, devices, circuits and systems.

We now wish to hire a PhD student in ‘From fundamental electronic structure theory to quantum devices‘.

The PhD topic is part of an SFI-funded project aiming at the demonstration of the first operational Germanium-Tin (GeSn) based quantum devices, capitalising on unique material band structure properties, and so place GeSn on the roadmap for future quantum computing and information processing technologies. The project is a collaboration between Tyndall and the Centre of Advanced Photonics and Process Analysis (CAPPA) of Munster Technological University. Gate-defined quantum dots will be fabricated at Tyndall's cleanrooms to realise qubits and quantum sensors.

Role and Key Responsibilities

The role of the PhD student shall include the following:

  • Performing highly accurate first-principle calculations to developing simplified methods that allow for detailed understanding of the fundamental electronic but also optical properties of this new material system.
  • Understanding and elucidating consequence of the electronic band structure for GeSn-based quantum devices.
  • Close collaboration with experimentalists to guide the design of the fabricated devices and the interpretation of the measurements.
  • Other Responsibilities

  • Participate in Education and Public Engagement activities, as required.
  • Ensure all activities are compliant with the Tyndall Quality Management system.
  • Ensure all activities are compliant with the required Health and Safety standards.
  • Carry out any additional duties as may reasonably be required within the general scope and level of the scholarship.
  • The PhD student will be embedded in the Quantum Electronics Devices group within the CMOS++ Research Cluster of the Micro & Nano Systems Centre (MNS) but also the Photonics Theory Group at Tyndall. CMOS++ brings together over 15 research leaders across Tyndall to address emerging materials, devices and architectures for next generation information-processing technologies that interface with and advance beyond CMOS.

    Essential Criteria

  • Typically an academic qualification is a 1st or upper 2nd class honours degree (or an equivalent international degree) in physics or related discipline.
  • Knowledge in quantum physics and/or condensed matter/solid state physics
  • High degree of responsibility and independence. Self-motivation, initiative, and being achievement-oriented. Hands on and flexible attitude.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Good presentation abilities, excellent written and oral English level.
  • Capability of working effectively within a team to achieve results. Able to collaborate with team members and project partners outside Tyndall.
  • Desirable Criteria

  • Experience with electronic band structure calculations using density functional theory or (semi)-empirical models (e.g. k.p or tight-binding models)
  • Key challenges

  • To obtain and analyse the electronic structure properties of high tin content in GeSn alloys using a blend of density functional theory and e.g. k.p models
  • To develop modelling tools capable of predicting the quantum device properties
  • Literature review and experimental collaboration to generate new knowledge in beyond state-of-the-art devices.
  • Tasks will incorporate both technical activities on the theory, design and simulation of the proposed GeSn quantum structures and professional training on project management, science communication and career development. At the completion of the PhD, the graduate will be in an excellent position for a career in academia or a high-value role in industry.

    The position if fully funded for four years. A student stipend of €22,000 p.a. applies for this successful candidate for this position. Yearly University academic fees will be paid by the Tyndall National Institute.

    Informal enquiries can be made in confidence to Giorgos Fagas ([email protected]) and/or Stefan Schulz ([email protected])

    Closing date of application is 15th March, 2024.

    Application Instructions

    Clickhere to Apply

    Postgraduate applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of English language proficiency as per UCC regulations (https: // www. ucc.ie/en/study/comparison/english/postgraduate/). Certificates should be valid (usually less than 2 years old) and should be uploaded with their application.

    Please note that Garda vetting and/or an international police clearance check may form part of the selection process.

    The University, at its discretion, may undertake to make an additional appointment(s) from this competition following the conclusion of the process.

    Please note that an appointment to posts advertised will be dependent on University approval, together with the terms of the employment control framework for the higher education sector.

    At this time, Tyndall National Institute does not require the assistance of recruitment agencies.

    Tyndall National Institute at University College, Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

    From this employer

    Recent blogs

    Recent news