PhD position in Materials Science

The position is assigned to the Professorship for Mechanics of Functional Materials (Prof. Dr. Enrico Gnecco). The MfM group is investigating physical properties of sur­faces down to the nano­meter scale. Especially interesting for us are friction, wear and adhesion processes on natural and artificial materials. The position is part of a new research project funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) titled “Multiple contact friction on laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS)” (2021-2023) in collaboration with Prof. Dr. Frank Müller. This project aims to address a fundamental problem in materials science, i.e. the relation between the material and geometric properties of two solid surfaces and the kinetic friction variations recorded when the surfaces slide past each other in dry conditions. To this end we will make use of state-of-the-art preparation and characterization methods including femtosecond laser irradiation and advanced atomic force microscopy (AFM) techniques.

Your responsibilities:
– Conducting research within the context of the project in all phases (planning, preparation, implementation, analysis) and research data management
– Project communication with the partner group
– Publication and dissemination of research results
– Opportunity for doctoral qualification will be given

Requirements:
– Diploma or Master’s degree in materials science, physics, chemistry or related subjects
– Experience with scanning probe microscopy and/or experimental or numerical characterization of mechanical properties is highly desirable
– Excellent English communication skills (both written and spoken)

We offer:
– attractive fringe benefits, e.g. Job Ticket (benefits for public transport) and occupational pensions (VBL)
– an exciting collegiate research atmosphere with considerable scope for creativity and international cooperation
– university health promotion and a family-friendly working environment with flexible working hours
– salary in accordance with the terms of the collective agreement for the public service of the Länder (TV-L) in accordance with personal qualifications up to salary scale E13

The position is based on a fixed-term contract (3 years). It´s a part-time position with 75 % of a full-time employment. Candidates with severe disabilities will be given preference in the case of equal qualifications and suitability.