36 months (14+22) contract | Fulltime/40h | Belvaux

Are you passionate about research? So are we! Come and join us

The Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) is a Research and Technology Organization (RTO) active in the fields of materials, environment and IT. By transforming scientific knowledge into technologies, smart data and tools, LIST empowers citizens in their choices, public authorities in their decisions and businesses in their strategies.

https://www.list.lu/

You ‘d like to contribute as a PhD Student? Join our Materials Research and Technology department

Through its research into advanced materials and processes, the “Materials Research and Technology” (MRT) department, with its 200 researchers and engineers, contributes to the emergence of enabling technologies that underpin the innovation processes of local and international industry. MRT’s activities hinge on four thematic pillars: nanomaterials and nanotechnology, scientific instrumentation and process technology, structural composites, and functional polymers.

How will you contribute?

The Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) is seeking to recruit a PhD student to work on numerical simulations for ion beam based nano-analytics. This project is funded by the Luxembourg National Research Fund and builds upon unique expertise at LIST on developing novel methodologies and instruments for the chemical and elemental characterisation of samples at the nanoscale.

The characterisation of nano-sized materials in 3 dimensions with high resolution and good accuracy is important for various application areas. The development of next-generation batteries, solar cells, semiconductors, etc. relies on such information to improve device properties. The assessment of the toxicological effects of nanomaterials and nano-plastics on human health and the environment relies also on high-resolution chemical images to understand the interaction of such materials with their surroundings. Secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) based on continuous ion beam irradiation has proven that it is one of the most promising techniques to tackle the aforementioned challenges for metals and semiconductors. Yet, the characterisation of polymers and other organic materials is still difficult.

You are expected to develop a methodology based on Molecular Dynamics simulations to understand the fundamental processes occurring during the analysis of polymers. The developed models will be benchmarked using experimental data obtained by LIST’s unique FIB-SIMS instruments. Once validated, the methodology can also be applied to other materials.

You will work closely with highly skilled scientists in the dynamic environments present at the Advanced Instrumentation for Nano-Analytics (AINA) group within LIST’s Materials Research & Technology Department. You will acquire highly valued skills in numerical modelling, data interpretation and handling, and ion beam based methodologies more generally.

You will design and perform relevant simulations, analyze and interpret the results, write scientific articles and disseminate the results in international conferences.

Is Your profile described below? Are you our future colleague? Apply now!

You hold a Master’s degree in Materials Science, Physics, or closely related fields with a pronounced taste for numerical simulations. Additionally, you have knowledge of a programming language. On top of this, you’re a strong team worker. You are fluent in English (both written and oral).

Your LIST benefits

• An organization with a passion for impact and strong RDI partnerships in Luxembourg and Europe that works on responsible and independent research projects
• Sustainable by design, empowering our belief that we play an essential role in paving the way to a green society
• Innovative infrastructures and exceptional labs occupying more than 5,000 square metres, including innovations in all that we do
• An environment encouraging curiosity, innovation and entrepreneurship in all areas
• Personalized learning programme to foster our staff’s soft and technical skills
• Multicultural and international work environment with more than 50 nationalities represented in our workforce
• Diverse and inclusive work environment empowering our people to fulfil their personal and professional ambitions
• Gender-friendly environment with multiple actions to attract, develop and retain women in science
• 32 days’ paid annual leave, 11 public holidays, 13-month salary, statutory health insurance
• Flexible working hours, home working policy and access to lunch vouchers

Apply online

Your application must include:

• A motivation letter oriented towards the position and detailing your experience;
• A scientific CV with contact details;
• List of publications (and patents, if applicable);
• Contact details of 2 references.

Application procedure and conditions

We kindly request applicants to provide their nationality for statistical purposes only, as part of our commitment to promoting diversity and ensuring equal opportunities in our workforce. This information will be kept confidential and will not be used for any discriminatory purposes.

LIST is dedicated to maintaining an inclusive work environment and is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to attracting, hiring, and retaining a diverse workforce. All applicants will be considered for employment without discrimination based on national origin, race, colour, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, religion, age, or disability.

Applications will be continuously reviewed until the position is filled. An assessment committee will thoroughly evaluate applications, adhering to guidelines designed to ensure equal opportunities. The primary criteria for selection will be the alignment of the applicant's existing skills and expertise with the requirements mentioned above.

 PhD additional conditions:

• Supervisor at LIST: Dr. Jean-Nicolas AUDINOT

• Work location: Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST), Belvaux, Luxembourg

• PhD enrolment: University of Luxembourg, Belval, Luxembourg

Candidates shall be available for starting their position as soon as possible. Please note that university enrolment fees (currently 200 EUR per semester) must be covered by the successful applicant.

Your master diploma must be recognized in Luxembourg. Please refer to:

https://www.uni.lu/en/admissions/diploma-recognition/

https://guichet.public.lu/fr/citoyens/enseignement-formation/etudes-superieures/reconnaissance-diplomes.html