Temporary contract | 36 months | Belval

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.

Do you want to know more about LIST? Check our website: https://www.list.lu/

Discover our Materials activities: https://www.list.lu/en/materials/

How will you contribute?

Interested to contribute to sustainable technologies? Researchers from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln (USA) and the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) will join forces to study a new family of eco-friendly functional materials that may enable breakthroughs in the development of ultra-low-power devices, from neuromorphic computing to signal filters for telecommunications.

We will focus on ferroelectric materials based on the simple parent compound, hafnium oxide (HfO₂). Ferroelectrics possess a permanent electric dipole that can be reoriented by an external voltage, which allows to build efficient field-effect devices. Of particular interest is the piezoelectric response of HfO₂-based ferroelectrics -- i.e., their elastic deformation in response to an electric field --, which has been shown experimentally to present striking features, such as the possibility of a continuously tuning the magnitude and sign of the effect. This and other novel features of HfO₂ ferroelectrics open the door to all-important applications and innovative device designs, but there is a problem: we do not understand the physical origin of such original behaviours or how to control them.

In this project, we will combine theory and experiment to explain (and expand!) the surprising properties of HfO2-based ferroelectrics. In particular, the postdoc based in LIST will work on the theory and simulation of carefully chosen ferroelectric samples (free-standing HfO₂-based membranes), which will allow us to elucidate the electric and mechanical response of these systems in relevant and well-controlled conditions. The work will involve all sort of theoretical and simulation tools, from direct quantum-mechanical calculations and machine-learned force fields to suitable phenomenological treatments. The work combines advanced theory and simulations with novel aspects of the physics of 2D functional materials, offering a great opportunity for relevant work and important discoveries.

In this project you will be part of a world-leading theory and simulation group in the field of ferroelectrics and functional materials (LIST), working in close collaboration with top-notch experimental teams in both Nebraska and LIST. This project constitutes a unique training opportunity that will boost your research career in either academy or industry, all while contributing to improve the lives of everyone in the planet!

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

You hold a PhD degree in Materials Science, Condensed Matter Physics or related discipline.

You have a good understanding of first-principles quantum simulation methods, e.g. based on density functional theory.

Fluency in spoken and written English is a must. So, you’re the one we’re looking for !

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

Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by email will not be considered.

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.

The supervisor of the work will be Prof. Jorge Íñiguez-González and you will be part the “Ferroic Materials for Transducers” group (25-30 members)

Preferably, candidates shall be available for starting to work in February 2025.