Postdoctoral Research Positions at KAUST – Ferroelectrets
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology: Postdoc Positions: Physical Science and Engineering Division (postdoc): Material Science and Engineering (postdoc)

DESCRIPTION

Prof. Alfonso Caraveo, Principal Investigator of ASAL (Advanced Sensing and Actuation Laboratory) at KAUST, is looking for qualified postdoctoral researchers in the field of multifunctional and responsive materials.
Application closing date: June 13th, 2025

QUALIFICATIONS

• PhD in Materials science, chemistry, physics, polymer science, or related field
• Strong background in ferroelectrets, piezoelectric materials, voided charged polymers or piezocomposites
• Hands-on experience with poling techniques, impedance analyzers, and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA).
• Highly skilled in device fabrication and characterization. Cleanroom experience is a plus
• Good publication record in peer-reviewed journals
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Proficient in written and spoken English
• Able to start the position in the Fall 2025
• The candidate must have obtained his PhD degree between 2020 and July 2025

• Research & Development:
• Conduct cutting-edge research on ferroelectrets, piezoelectric materials, and related hybrid/composite systems for physical sensing, energy harvesting, and actuator applications.
• Design, synthesize, and characterize novel ferroelectric/piezoelectric materials (e.g., polymers, ceramics, or composites) with enhanced electromechanical properties.
• Optimize material properties (e.g., polarization, dielectric constant, piezoelectric coefficients) through advanced processing techniques (e.g., corona poling, soft x-ray charging, thermal treatment, nanostructuring).
• Experimental & Analytical Work:
• Perform electrical, mechanical, and electromechanical characterization (e.g., hysteresis loops, dielectric spectroscopy, d33/d31 measurements, fatigue testing).
• Utilize advanced techniques such as SEM, XRD, AFM, PFM (Piezoresponse Force Microscopy), and Raman spectroscopy for microstructural and domain analysis.
• Develop and test prototype devices (e.g., sensors, transducers, energy harvesters) based on ferroelectrets/piezoelectrics.
• Lab & Project Management:
• Maintain and calibrate lab equipment related to ferroelectric/piezoelectric research.
• Supervise and mentor graduate students (master’s and PhD) in related research projects.
• Ensure compliance with lab safety protocols and ethical research practices.