Research Associate in Nanomechanics in Organic Semiconductors

at  University of Cambridge

A position exists for a Research Associate in Nanomechanics of Organic Semiconductors. The aim of the role is to understand the mechanical properties of organic semiconductors, characterised jointly using microelectronic devices and an atomic force microscope (AFM). Organic semiconductor devices are known for their deployment in large area flexible electronics. Their mechanical properties on the scale of a few molecules are only starting to be probed. Our team demonstrated high-resolution, nanometre-scale, mechanical measurements on organic semiconductors [I. Dobryden, V. V. Korolkov ¿ D. Venkateshvaran, Nature Communications 13, 3076 (2022)] and have since pushed the limits to measurements on the scale of few molecules. In the work proposed for an incoming Research Associate, we intend to bring these measurement skills together with devices to demonstrate nanomechanical property tunability in organic semiconductors using electric and thermal fields. These experiments will evolve a deeper understanding of how mechanical properties, electronic properties, and thermal properties, in organic semiconductors are interlinked on the nanoscale.
You will hold a PhD in Physical Sciences including Physical Chemistry or Materials Science with a proven track record in (a) nanomechanical characterization of materials using AFM (b) materials for energy related research (c) surface science studies
Preference will be given to candidates with experience in AFM-based nanomechanical measurements using atomic force microscopes from Park Systems (NX10) and Bruker/JPK (NanoWizard®3) as demonstrated by publications in major journals, either published or in submission. A solid understanding of experimental nanomechanics, an in-depth understanding of AFM tip-sample interactions, and of organic semiconductors is required for this position. You will have experience in nanomechanical measurements across phase transitions which will show added strength. You will demonstrate in-depth knowledge, attention to detail, comprehensiveness of work through selected publications, and will seek quality over quantity of publications. You will also have the ability to develop effective presentation skills, impactful writing skills, and project management skills, necessary in their development as a scientist. You will collaborate with project partners in Stockholm, Belgium, and Germany, as part of your work. You will be based in the Department of Physics Cavendish Laboratory JJ Thomson Avenue Cambridge CB3 0HE, UK, and will use laboratory facilities in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance.
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Ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV), publications list, and a covering letter in the upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application. Please submit your application by midnight on the closing date.
If you have any questions about this vacancy, please contact Dr Deepak Venkateshvaran (dv246@cam.ac.uk). If you have any questions about the application process, please contact PHY Kapitza HR (kapitza.hr@phy.cam.ac.uk).
Please quote reference KA42591 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
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Please refer the Job description for details