The Photonics Theory Group, III-Materials and Devices Group and Nanoelectronic Materials and Devices Group at the Tyndall National Institute together with the University of Glasgow, UK, have recently attracted major funding to evaluate the potential of high aluminium-content Al_xGa_1-xN (0.5 < x < 1) alloys as an active, ultrawide bandgap semiconductor for robust, high power and high frequency electronic applications.  This work requires detailed theoretical and experimental understanding of the fundamental properties of the material and their consequences for electronic devices. 

As part of this award, Tyndall and University College Cork are inviting now applications for a researcher focusing on the theory of carrier transport in aluminium rich semiconductor alloys and heterostructures. The researcher is expected to develop and implement theoretical methods which operate and connect different length scales (multi-scale simulations). To achieve this semi-empirical electronic structure (e.g. tight-binding, k.p and localization landscape) methods and carrier transport (e.g. modified drift-diffusion) models will be employed. The theoretical studies will go hand in hand with the experimental investigations carried out in the project to ensure the overall success of the project. The groups involved are well-established with significant teams, and who interact with others as part of a vibrant multi-investigator activity covering high power RF device applications.

Key Responsibilities and research objectives

• Development of empirical atomistic and/or modified continuum-based models for high aluminium-content Al_xGa_1-xN (0.5 < x < 1) semiconductor alloys and heterostructures.
• Close collaboration with the experimental partners on the project to ensure overall success.
• Disseminate the outcomes of the research to the group, including peer‐reviewed academic publications and presentations at Tyndall and at conferences of international standing.
• Provide scientific/technical support for other group members.
• Contribute to project planning.
• Support education and public engagement activities
• Carry out any additional duties as may reasonably be required within the general scope and level of the post.

Essential Criteria

• The successful candidate must have a PhD in physical sciences, applied maths, electrical engineering, a related field or have demonstrated equivalent experience.
• Previous research in electronic structure theory and/or carrier transport theory as evidenced by publications.
• Strong communication, interpersonal and team working skills.
• Excellent technical report writing skills.

Desirable Criteria

• Previous research in III-N materials as evidenced by publications.
• Experience in working in research projects including multiple academic (both experiment and theory) and industry partners.

Further information, including on how to apply, can be found here.