The goal of the BMFTR-funded Junior Research Group 'Passivation Protection Layers for High-Efficiency Multi-Absorber Devices for Photoelectrochemical Solar Fuel Production (acronym ‘PARASOL’)' is to integrate stable and efficient metal oxide passivation protection layers with appropriate energetic alignment with multiabsorber photoelectrochemical cells (based on III-V and Si photoabsorbers) for solar fuel conversion.
The project follows innovative, integrated, and interdisciplinary approaches at the intersection of surface science, photoelectrochemistry, and semiconductor physics, with a focus on understanding and engineering III-V photoabsorber/metal oxide/catalyst interfaces. The work combines materials development with advanced characterization methods and in situ optical and operando spectroscopy.
The advertised position is part of a Junior Research Group funded by the BMFTR, working in close collaboration with two internationally leading research teams at Technische Universität Ilmenau and the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB).
Your tasks
Your job tasks includes the following responsibilities:
1. Deposition of metal oxide thin films (e.g., Ga₂O₃) using atomic layer deposition (ALD)
2. Fundamental investigation chemical and energetic structure at atomically well-ordered III-V surfaces/oxide/catalyst heterointerfaces, using laboratory-based and synchrotron-based photoelectron spectroscopy
3. Study of electronic structure metal oxide thin film with or without catalyst in contact with an electrolyte by in situ PEC measurements and operando soft X-ray spectroscopy (synchrotron-based); PEC stability, efficiency and selectivity measurements
4. Academic teaching support, including supervision of student research projects (e.g., Bachelor’s and Master’s theses) related to the research topic
5. Assist in the supervision and mentoring of PhD students within the research group, in close collaboration with the group leader
6. Active contribution to collaborative research with internal and external partners; dissemination of results through peer-reviewed publications and presentations at national and international conferences
Your profile
Required Qualifications for Participation in the Selection Process:
7. completed scientific university degree (Master/ Dipl. (Univ.)) and PhD in physics, chemistry, materials science, or a related field, with a focus on semiconductors, surface science, or electrochemistry
In Addition, the Following Qualifications Are Desirable:
8. Strong background in semiconductor physics and inorganic/organic interface chemistry
9. Hands-on experience in semiconductor processing, especially in atomic layer deposition (ALD) and/or metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD)
10. Experience with advanced material characterization techniques, in particular: X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and/or synchrotron-based techniques; Optical characterization (e.g., ellipsometry) and thin-film analysis
11. Demonstrated ability to independently plan, execute, and analyze experiments, including coordination of beamtime campaigns at synchrotron facilities
12. Excellent teamwork and communication skills, including co-supervision of PhD students and coordination within a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment
13. Willingness to travel occasionally for national and international collaborations
14. Excellent English communication skills are necessary (Level B2). Additional German skills are advantageous
Please submit official certificates and transcripts to verify the qualifications listed in this job advertisement.
The position is not divisible.
What we offer you:
15. A dynamic, international, and interdisciplinary research environment focused on cutting-edge materials and energy research
16. Access to advanced infrastructure, including cleanroom facilities, state-of-the-art deposition and characterization tools, and in situ/operando spectroscopy setups
17. Close collaboration with leading national and international research groups, including opportunities for joint projects and publications
18. Opportunities for professional development, including travel to synchrotron facilities, participation in international conferences, and collaboration with top-tier academic partners
19. Career-enhancing networking opportunities and individual mentoring and support from the TU Ilmenau Graduate Centre
20. Attractive compensation according to the collective agreement for the public sector (TV-L), including an annual special payment
21. 30 days of annual leave plus additional paid holidays on December 24 and 31
22. Flexible working hours
23. A fixed-term contract for at least 3 years, with the potential for extension
24. VBL pension plan as part of public sector retirement benefits
At TU Ilmenau, you can expect a supportive and respectful working environment at a renowned research university, with a wide range of personal development and training opportunities. In addition to a family-friendly and flexible working time model, you will benefit from various campus advantages, including access to the student union dining facilities and a broad range of sports and recreational programs offered by the university sports center.