We are inviting applications for 4 PhD positions in the framework of the research initiative FLAME “Fermi Level Engineering of Antiferroelectric Materials for Energy Applications”, which is funded by the state of Hesse within the LOEWE program starting on January 1, 2019 for the duration of four years.

Research Associates (4 positions)

We are looking for excellent motivated candidates with expertise in solid state theory or continuum mechanics.

The four positions will focus on the following scientific topics: 

(1) Electronic structure of antiferroelectric materials based on density functional theory and beyond, modern Berry phase theory of electric polarization, and phase transitions under homogeneous electric fields (Prof. Zhang);

(2) Systematic calculations of free energies and construction of effective Hamiltonians (Profs. Zhang and Albe);

(3) Thermodynamics and kinetics of defects and polarons (Prof. Albe);

(4) Phase-field simulation of polarization behavior (Prof. Xu).

The candidates will work on challenging problems in the field of designing polarizable materials for energy storage and insulators. The research is part of an interdisciplinary network involving partners from materials science, chemistry and electrical engineering at TU Darmstadt. 

Your profile:

• Master degree in Solid State Physics, Material Science, Chemistry, or Materials Engineering.
• Experience in one at least one of the following field: solid state theory, density functional theory, group theory, or phase field methods.
• Proven track record for readiness to take on responsibility, strong ability for independent problem.
• Self-motivated, goal-oriented personality with good interpersonal skills supporting the team-work in an international, interdisciplinary environment.
• Excellent communication skills, full command of the English language (oral and written).

TU Darmstadt is internationally oriented and committed to excellence. Foreign applicants are explicitly invited to apply. The University offers generous terms and conditions of employment, a wide range of benefits, services, facilities and family friendly policies. Full details are available on the Human Resources web pages. The fulfillment of the duties likewise enables the scientific qualification of the candidate. Opportunity for further qualification (doctorate) is given.

The Technische Universität Darmstadt intends to increase the number of female faculty members and encourages female candidates to apply. In case of equal qualifications applicants with a degree of disability of at least 50 or equal will be given preference. Wages and salaries are according to the collective agreements on salary scales, which apply to the Technische Universität Darmstadt (TV-TU Darmstadt). Part-time employment is generally possible.

Please address your application with the usual documents (CV, certificates, publication list, names of 3 references) and reference to the code below, preferentially as one PDF file by email to [email protected], Institute of Materials Science, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Otto-Berndt-Str. 3, 64287 Darmstadt,

Contact:

Jun. Prof. Dr. Hongbin Zhang,             Tel.: +49-(0)6151/16 23135

Prof. Dr. Baixiang Xu,                          Tel.: +49-(0)6151-16 21906 

Prof. Dr. Karsten Albe,                         Tel.: +49-(0)6151-16 21900 

Code. No. 391

Application deadline: October 31, 2018