Marie Curie Early Stage Researcher (PhD student) Position on Infrared near-field microscopy in liquids (Ref.ESR7-SPM2.0)

The Nanooptics group at the CIC nanoGUNE (San Sebastian, Spain) is looking for an early stage researcher (predoc) to adapt scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscopy (s-SNOM) and nanoscale Fourier transform infrared (nano-FTIR) spectroscopy for operation in liquid media.

The contract will be within the framework of the SPM2.0 Marie Curie Initial Training Network (721874), which aims at training a whole generation of researchers in the most advanced SPM techniques able to address the challenge of sub-surface, high speed and composition sensitive imaging of materials with sub-10 nm resolution.

The successful candidate will develop research involving:

- Development and implementation of instrumentation and methods for s-SNOM and nano-FTIR in liquids.

- Development of optimized near-field probes with focused ion beam milling (FIB).

- Demonstration experiments.

Requirements:

Degree and Master in Physics, Physical Chemistry, Chemistry or Materials Sciences/Engineering (completed before the contract staring date).

Multidisciplinary qualifications (Physics/Chemistry, Physics/Materials Sciences, etc.).

Practical experience with Scanning Probe Microscopies, particularly s-SNOM

Good knowledge in optics, particularly near-field and nanooptics.

Proficiency in spoken and written English is compulsory.

Computer literacy, analytical skills and effective team working.

Marie-Curie fellowship Mobility requirement:

At the time of recruitment by CIC nanoGUNE, candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work or studies) in Spain for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to their recruitment.

We Offer:

Full time 3 years contract. Envisaged starting date: April 2017.

Stimulating, interdisciplinary research and high quality international scientific environment.

Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Interested applicants should send their CV, full academic sheet, cover letter and two references to: r.hillenbrand@nanogune.eu, before 10/03/2017 (Reference: ESR7-SPM2.0).