PhD student position (f/m/d) K 14/26

The Leibniz-Institut für Kristallzüchtung (IKZ) is a leading research institution in the field of science & technology as well as service & transfer of crystalline materials. Our goal is to enable solutions for pressing societal challenges (e.g. communication, artificial intelligence, climate protection, health, etc.) through modern electronic & photonic technologies. The work covers the entire spectrum from basic and applied research to pre-industrial development and is carried out in cooperation with national and international partners from universities, academies and industry. The institute is part of the Forschungsverbund Berlin ( https://www.fv-berlin.de/ ) and a member of the Leibniz Association ( https://www.leibniz-gemeinschaft.de ). You can find more details on the institute webpage: https://www.ikz-berlin.de. 

 The Leibniz-Institut für Kristallzüchtung is currently looking for a

PhD student (f/m/d) 

for the topic:

“Crystal growth and characterization of ultrapure CaWO4 single crystals
for quantum applications”

Emerging quantum applications require materials with very high purity and structural quality materials to significantly extend the coherence time. CaWO4, pure or rare-earth element doped has been identified as a promising candidate. Within a QuantERA project in the European quantum ecosystem (the IKZ part is funded by DFG and Co-funded by the European Commission), the successful candidate will perform the crystal growth experiments of ultrapure CaWO4 crystals including the preparation of starting materials and characterisation of the grown crystals (also the doped crystals of the partners in the Quantera consortium). Characterisation techniques like optical microscopy, µ-XRF and Energy-dispersive Laue mapping will be applied.

The host research section “oxides and fluorides” at the IKZ, offers a unique research environment. The rare combination of in-house crystal growth expertise, advanced materials development, high expertise in sample preparation and characterization combined with a state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure provides outstanding opportunities to advance the performance of exceptionally-low-noise devices for quantum applications with our partners.

Regular scientific exchange and experiments in collaboration with other European research groups are beneficial for the success of the project.

Required qualifications:

• MSc degree in material science and engineering, chemistry, applied science, mineralogy or a related field
• Strong background in material preparation (e.g. of oxides or other materials) and basic characterization
• Motivation and passion for scientific research
• Ability to work independently in a laboratory research environment
• Very good written and spoken English; basic knowledge of German is beneficial

Prior experience in the following areas is considered an asset (but not essential):

• Hands-on crystal growth experience (e.g. optical floating zone, Czochralski, Top-seeded solution growth)
• Knowledge in optical and structural characterization techniques

What we offer
The position is limited to three years. Payment is according to TVöD Bund (E13 75%) (Collective agreement for the public sector). The contract includes the usual social benefits (30 vacation days in a 5-day week, flexible working hours). The Leibniz-Institut für Kristallzüchtung actively promotes the development of young scientists and follows the guidelines of the Leibniz Association.

The Leibniz-Institut für Kristallzüchtung actively supports a healthy work-life balance and is an equal opportunities employer. Female candidates are encouraged to apply and will be given preference if suitably qualified. Among equally qualified candidates, preference will be given to candidates with disabilities. IKZ promotes diversity. We welcome every qualified application, regardless of age, belief, disabilities, ethnic origin, gender, nationality, religion, or sexual orientation.

If you want to have more information about the project, please contact us:
Dr. Christo Guguschev ([email protected]), Phone: +49 30 246499 417

Have we aroused your interest? 
Then apply with a letter of motivation, curriculum vitae and all relevant certificates. To do so, please go to Job offers/jobs on our homepage and click on this advertisement and then on "Apply online". Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

We look forward to receiving your application!