Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Advanced Materials Group (Department of Control Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Czech Technical University in Prague) to work on studying lubricative and transport properties of novel coatings for reducing friction and wear.

SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT:

The project core objective is the control of the atomic diffusion of selected species in nanocomposite materials by simulation-aided design of hard coatings. We will explore various nanostructures to achieve novel low-friction surfaces by controlled diffusion. The project is carried out in close collaboration with an Austrian academic partner and combines different theoretical approaches in order to allow for the rational design of interfaces and nanostructures for high-temperature lubrication.

OBJECTIVES:

The final goal is to study the frictional behaviour of nanostructured materials. In the first stage of the project, simulations will be carried out in order to study the lubrication mechanism of selected compounds at the nanoscale. Additional calculations will be aimed at studying the diffusion dynamics of selected atomic species within the coating. The combined information will yield protocols for the rational design of novel nanostructures with improved tribological properties.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

Successful candidates must have a PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or closely related disciplines. A strong background in classical and/or ab initio simulations is mandatory; experience with the QM/MM method is highly desired. Additional experience on the development of classical force fields represents a plus. Researchers are expected to perform calculations on Linux-based HPC centers. Good knowledge of English, both written and oral, is compulsory.

ABOUT THE GROUP:

Advanced Materials Group is formed of experimentalists and computationalists working on coatings and low-dimensional systems for various applications. The group is well-established and consists of dynamic and motivated researchers leading international collaborations on interdisciplinary topics. In case of exceptional results, postdocs can be promoted to assistant professor (tenure track).

CONTRACT DETAILS:

The salary will be competitive (approx. 25,000 EUR/year plus employer bonus). The position is initially for 2 years and can be prolonged upon mutual agreement. Project duration is 3 years.

HOW TO APPLY:

The call is open immediately and the position will be filled as soon as a proper candidate is found – the starting date is expected to be no later than Q2/2019. Applications must include a brief description of research interests and relevant experience, a CV with publications, and at least two letters of recommendation of academic referees. Inquiries and applications shall be sent to: [email protected]