Jülich: Master Thesis in Physics or Materials Science - Memristor device fabrication and operando AFM characterization

Oxide electronics are a major opportunity for future information technologies and a sustainable energy economy. In the group for `Growth and in-situ characterization of oxide thin films & devices` at Peter Grünberg Institute - Electronic Materials (PGI-7), we are exploring the fundamental properties of nanoscaled oxides in functional memristive devices. The fabrication of novel geometry memristor and the in-situ high-resolution characterization in operando allow us to explore programming of memristors in real neuromorphic hardware programming.

Your Job:

• Fabricate memristors with Helmholtz Nano Facility (HNF) using E-beam lithography
• Sputter sub-stoichiometry oxides thin films to complete the lateral memristor
• Electrically operate and program the memristors
• Operando characterizing the device electrically and morphologically using conductive atomic force microscopy (C-AFM)
• Access and active control of advanced experimental setups

Your Profile:

• Completed qualification to enroll for the Master thesis in Physics or Materials Sciences, with a good track record
• Willingness to familiarise yourself with new methods or new scientific challenges
• Interest in issues about nanoelectronics and surface science
• Previous knowledge in lithography, surface characterization, or electrical characterization is desirable
• High degree of motivation and reliability and analytical working style
• Excellent ability to cooperate and work in a team
• Fluent knowledge of written and spoken English

Our Offer:

We work on highly relevant innovative topics and offer you the possibility to actively shape the change. We support you with:

• PRACTICAL RELEVANCE: With us, you will gain valuable practical experience alongside your studies and actively participate in interdisciplinary projects
• SCIENTIFIC ENVIRONMENT: You can expect excellent scientific equipment, modern technologies, and qualified support from experienced colleagues. On top, you will receive individual training to learn state-of-the-art lab methodology, comprising electron beam lithography (EBL), oxide sputtering, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and transport measurements.
• WORK-LIFE BALANCE: We offer flexible working hours to help you balance your professional and personal life
• FLEXIBILITY: Flexible working hours make it easier for you to balance work and study
• CAMPUS EXPERIENCE: Our research campus in the countryside creates ideal conditions for collegial exchange and sporting activities right on site. Our cafeteria offers a wide range of options—you can enjoy a relaxing lunch break with a lake view
• PERSPECTIVE: If you have the appropriate qualifications and funding is available, the institute offers the opportunity to do your PhD after completing your master`s thesis
• FAIR REMUNERATION: We will pay you a reasonable remuneration for your thesis

In addition to exciting tasks and a collegial working environment, we offer you much more: https://go.fzj.de/benefits

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.

The following links provide further information on diversity and equal opportunities: https://go.fzj.de/equality and on specific support options: https://go.fzj.de/womens-job-journey