Postdoc position (m/f/d) Growth and characterization of complex oxide thin film heterostructure[...]

About the position

The discovery of a two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) at the interface between SrTiO3
and LaAlO3 laid fertile ground to develop innovative device concepts in electronics,
quantum physics, and most recently spin-orbitronics by harnessing the Rashba
spin-orbit coupling (SOC). Desirable properties, such as long spin diffusion length
and efficient spin-charge interconversion, require the synthesis of high-quality
oxide heterostructures to enable exploitation of these spin-orbitronic functionalities
at room temperature. The goal is to synthesize stannate, titanate, and
tantalite-based heterostructures forming low-dimensional electron and hole gases.
This will be accomplished by exploring the growth parameter space and utilizing
conventional plasma-assisted as well as hybrid molecular beam epitaxy.
The postdoc's research will benefit from interactions with ongoing research
activities at PDI within the CReA Novel Oxides, as well as from the international
collaborations. Additional responsibilities may include mentoring graduate
and undergraduate students, as well as contributing to grant proposals and project reports.

Your responsibilities

• Developing synthesis of stannate, titanate, and tantalate thin films by PAMBE and
  hybrid MBE
• Epitaxial integration of these perovskite oxide heterostructure on silicon wafers
• Growing samples for external partners
• Structural, electrical, and optical characterization
• Data analysis and independent planning of growth and characterization experiments
• Informing the research community about research progress in presentations at conferences
  and via publishing manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals

Your profile

• PhD in physics, electrical engineering, materials science, or a related field
• Strong background in semiconductor physics and thin-film growth by
  molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) or pulsed laser deposition (PLD)
• Strong background in the growth of functional perovskite oxides
• Experience with structural, electrical, and optical characterization techniques
• Hands-on experience with maintaining ultra-high vacuum deposition systems,
  such as MBE or PLD chambers
• Self-management and mindset for actively collaborating with a team of
  scientists and technicians
• Excellent spoken and written English skills

Position and salary

This position is available from June 1, 2026, on and is limited to 2 years.
Salary and benefits are according to the Treaty for German public service
(TVöD Bund) to a level of E13(100%).

What we offer

• Job security and a good work-life balance
• Modern laboratories with a wide range of experimental techniques,
  located in the heart of Berlin with excellent public transport
  connections and a subsidized travel ticket
• Supportive environment with experts for various scientific sub-fields
• International and culturally diverse community
• Possibility to participate in professional development and/or exchange
  programs

Inclusive & equal opportunity employer

With approximately 100 employees and more than 15 nationalities, PDI is committed
to building a talented, inclusive, and culturally diverse workforce. We understand that
our shared future is guided by basic principles of fairness and mutual respect.

As an equal opportunity and family-friendly employer, we offer highly flexible
employment conditions, such as flexible working hours, parental leave, and
home office, and we strive to create a family- and life-conscious working environment.

Among equally qualified applicants, preference will be given to candidates from
marginalized groups. That means, we welcome every qualified application, regardless
of sex and gender, origin, nationality, religion, belief, health and disabilities, age or
sexual orientation.

PDI follow our gender equality plan, so we want to engage women* to apply at
PDI to balance the gender ratio in science. Disabled applicants with equal qualification
and aptitude will be given preferential consideration.

About PDI

The Paul Drude Institute is part of the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V. and a member
of the Leibniz Association.

The Institute carries out basic and applied research at the nexus of materials science,
condensed matter physics, and device engineering. In the Epitaxy department at PDI,
a dedicated team of scientists, technicians, postdocs, and students operates a dozen
molecular beam epitaxy systems for the synthesis of a wide range of material systems,
including arsenides, nitrides, oxides, and 2D materials. This collaborative environment
offers abundant opportunities for learning about various aspects of epitaxy, making it
an ideal place to start a career in this field.