Postdoc van der Waals heterostructures

Are you a highly motivated, ambitious Postdoc candidate interested in pursuing cutting-edge experimental research in the area of quantum transport in van der Waals heterostructures? Are you interested in asking challenging fundamental questions in the area of emerging quantum states driven by proximity effect?

We have an opening for a Postdoctoral Researcher at Dr. Semonti Bhattacharyya’s vibrant research group (QWaals) in Leiden Institute of Physics (LION).

Van der Waals stacking is a unique route to create a defect-free, smooth interface between two materials with completely different properties. Hence, these types of assemblies are ideal fertile ground to study mechanisms of proximity effect and interaction of different quantum phases without the presence of significant amount of disorder. However, understanding and harnessing of such proximity effects and interaction are at a nascent stage. The PhD research topic involves (i) experimental detection and (ii) manipulation of new emergent quantum phases in such hybrid heterostructures as a function of twist angle and pressure. Experimental techniques will involve van der Waals stacking, nanofabrication, and low-temperature magnetotransport measurements.

Work and profile

Key responsibilities

• Conducting Experiments in the lab including fabricating van der Waals heterostructures, nanolithography, electrical transport measurements
• Instrument design and modifications
• Co-supervision of PhD and BSc/MSc interns
• Publication in high-quality journals
• Disseminating results in conferences

Essential Selection Criteria

• PhD degree in the area of experimental condensed matter or related discipline
• Strong experience in at least one of the following- nanofabrication and characterization (Raman+AFM) of van der Waals heterostructures, low-temperature electrical transport measurement
• Motivated to conduct independent experimental research
• Good communication skills, ability and willingness to work in a team

What’s in it for you?

• Opportunity to grow your independent research vision
• Mentoring and professional courses for your future career
• Infrastructural support and supervision to pursue ambitious research directions