The Department of Science and Methods of Engineering of the Modena and Reggio Emilia University (Italy) invites applications for one postdoctoral position (Assegno di Ricerca).

Duration: one year renewable 

Theme: Multiscale modelling of HfO2 stack for memory application devices.

Research will be focused on a multiscale modeling of HfO₂ stack for memory application devices. In particular the physical mechanisms governing the charge transport through HfO₂ stacks will be investigated using a multiscale modelling platform which connects materials to devices to accelerate the development of novel devices for future electronic applications. The multiscale platform merges semiclassical and ab initio calculations. In particular, the ab initio calculations are performed in density functional theory (DFT). This multiscale approach describe the most relevant defect-related phenomena in charge transport. This will permit to interpret the reliability and electrical characteristics of logic and memory devices. 

In this multiscale approach, the device geometry and material morphology are defined by previous DFT calculations of the energetics and electronic properties of interfaces, grain boundaries and O defects. Next, the charge transport of the device is calculated using the trap-assisted tunnelling (TAT) [6] method in combination with defect properties calculated in DFT. 

Ideal candidates should have a background in Physics/Chemistry/Materials Science or related fields. Familiarity with large computational facilities, and expertise with programming are desirable. Experience of ab-initio techniques will constitute a large advantage.

The post-doc will work with Prof. Elena Degoli and Prof Luca Larcher (Unimore, Italy) and in collaboration with Dr. Nathalie Capron and Dr. Luppi (Sorbonne University, Paris France)

In case you are interested in applying, please contact ([email protected], eleonora.luppi@upmc.fr) and include : CV with a list of publications, the name and contact information of at least two referees.