51 Faculty of Physics
Startdate: 01.10.2024 | Working hours: 30 | Collective bargaining agreement: §48 VwGr. B1 Grundstufe (praedoc)
Limited until: 30.09.2027
Reference no.: 2483

About the research group:

The research group "Physics of Nanostructured Materials" (PNM) studies the fundamental physics of novel materials such as graphene and other 2D materials in the context of atomic-scale structural manipulation using electron and ion irradiation combining experimental materials physics, atomic-resolution (scanning) transmission electron microscopy, single-atom spectroscopy, and computational physics.

Job description:

We are looking for a motivated and talented individual to join the group as a prae-doctoral researcher. The position offers an excellent opportunity to participate in leading the research field together with national and international collaborators. The research project related to this position supports the FWF Cluster of Excellence MECS (Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage), and will involve transmission electron microscopy of catalyst particles and/or nanostructures, including in situ techniques, and implementation of a reaction cell that will be connected to the vacuum system also hosting the Nion UltraSTEM 100 microscope used in the study. The catalysts will be supported on 2D materials such as graphene, or other substrates that allow transmission electron microscopy imaging.

Key responsibilities:

You actively participate in research, teaching & administration, which means:

• You are involved in research related to the understanding of the atomic structure of catalyst particles before, during, and after catalysis using techniques related to scannig transmission electron microscopy and electron energy loss spectroscopy, and in publishing the results in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• You will carry out independent experimental and/or computational work, including data analysis and preparation of results for publication.
• You will be in direct contact with the national research collaborators, including joint experiments.
• You are expected to sign a doctoral thesis agreement within 12-18 months and to finish your thesis within the period of the working contract (four years).
• You engage in teaching (independently and/or in a team) within the scope of the provisions of the collective bargaining agreement.
• You may occasionally be involved in the organization of meetings, conferences and symposiums.
• You take on administrative tasks in research, teaching and administration.

Your qualifications:

• Completed Master's degree or Diploma in physics or a related field.
• Basic experience in academic writing.
• Hands-on experience with design and implementation of vacuum systems is an advantage.
• Hands-on experience with atomic-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy of 2D materials is an advantage.
• Hands-on experience with 2D material sample preparation, including post-transfer cleaning methods, is an advantage.
• Basic skills in scientific programming are expected, and good skills in Python and transmission electron microscopy image simulations are an advantage.
• Excellent command of written and spoken English (C1 Level or equivalent).
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Good communication skills and ability to present research findings effectively.
• Didactic experience is an advantage.

What we offer:

PhD project: We offer an attractive research project at the cutting-edge of the research field for you PhD thesis.

Work-life balance: Our employees enjoy flexible, family-friendly working hours and remote/ hybrid work (upon agreement).

Inspiring working atmosphere: You are a part of an international academic team in a friendly and inclusive working environment.

Work in a safe city with an outstanding life quality: Vienna is the most livable city word-wide with a rich culture, numerous recreational opportunities and beautiful nature surroundings.

Good public transport connections: Your workplace is close to the city center and easily accessible by public transport.

Internal further training & coaching: Opportunity to acquire additional skills in different areas within the training course offer for university employees.

Fair salary: A basic gross salary of EUR 3,578.80 on a full-time basis (75% for a 30 hour position).

Equal opportunities for everyone: We look forward to diverse personalities in our team!

Terms of employment:

Extent of Employment: 30 hours/week
The employment duration is 4 years. Initially limited to 1.5 years, the employment relationship is automatically extended to 4 years if the employer does not terminate it within the first 12 months by submitting a non-extension declaration.

Occupation group in accordance with collective bargaining agreement: §48 VwGr. B1 Grundstufe (praedoc). After three years of employment, the salary increases according to the collective bargaining agreement.

How to apply:

Please apply on this portal by clicking on the "Apply" button below. The following documents are needed:

• Letter of motivation
• Academic curriculum vitae
• List of publications, evidence of teaching experience (if available)
• Degree certificates

If you have any questions, please contact:

Jani Kotakoski  

jani.kotakoski@univie.ac.at 

We look forward to new personalities in our team! 
The University of Vienna has an anti-discriminatory employment policy and attaches great importance to equal opportunities, the advancement of women and diversity. We lay special emphasis on increasing the number of women in senior and in academic positions among the academic and general university staff and therefore expressly encourage qualified women to apply. Given equal qualifications, preference will be given to female candidates.

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​Application deadline: 08/18/2024 

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