PhD candidates (m/f/d) in the research areas of growth, analysis and electronic / optoelectronic device implementation of scalable 2D materials

We are a young, innovative university in the middle of the Metropole Ruhr. Excellent in research and teaching, we think in terms of possibilities instead of limits and develop ideas with a future. We live diversity, promote potential, and are committed to educational equity worthy of the name.

Are you interested in participating in cutting-edge interdisciplinary research, strengthening your resume with professional and technical skills, and exploring the scientific and cultural diversity in Europe and North America? The graduate training program in Scalable 2D-Materials Architectures (2D-MATURE) may be the opportunity you're looking for!

2D-MATURE invites applications for

2 positions for PhD candidates (m/f/d)
(3.5 years, 100 % TV-L 13)

in the research areas of growth, analysis and electronic / optoelectronic device implementation of scalable 2D materials. The open positions are allocated to the projects P6 and P7 (see )

Start: fall 2025
Duration: 3.5 years
Working time: 100 percent of a full-time position (part-time employment is possible)
Application deadline: 2025-08-18

Your tasks The DFG International Research Training Group (GRK 2803) Scalable 2D-Materials Architectures (2D-MATURE): Synthesis and Processing, Characterization and Functionality, Implementation and Demonstration is currently searching for the second cohort of PhD candidates starting in Spring/Summer 2025. This program is an international collaboration between the University of Duisburg-Essen (UDE) / RWTH Aachen University (RWTH, both in Germany) and the University of Waterloo (UW, Canada). Part of the international qualification within the 2D-MATURE is a 6-8 months research stay in Canada.

The research focus of 2D-MATURE is on development of scalable synthesis and processing routes for 2D materials, understanding interface-controlled functionality in realistic architectures, and demonstration of showcase applications, like light emitters, light sensors, supercapacitors, and batteries. Research and training tasks will be carried out by a collaborative and interdisciplinary team from electrical, mechanical, and chemical engineering, as well as physics and chemistry, with the intention to bring promising new 2D materials out of the laboratory and into the market-place.

Your profile:

• you are a talented and enthusiastic candidate with high interest in the research topic of 2D-MATURE
• you have abilities for problem-solving and independent work
• your previous professional history fits to the research tasks of 2D-MATURE
• your (expected) Master's degree has very good marks in a relevant subject area

We offer

• opportunity to conduct high-level, interdisciplinary research in a stimulating environment
• international exchange
• interdisciplinary, international, and intersectoral training
• regular supervision and mentoring
• family friendliness through childcare services for your children
• advice on family care responsibilities
• a wide range of further and advanced training opportunities, individual induction training
• excellent public transport connections and free parking spaces
• attractive sports and health facilities (university sports)

Your application Interested candidates should fill in the application form available at and send it together with a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, a copy of all university degrees and other certificates in a single pdf-file to . Please mention in your application which projects and principal investigators provide the best match with your background and interest.

For more detailed information on the program and the application procedure please refer to . Applicants are encouraged to contact the spokesperson in case of any questions: Prof. Dr. Gerd Bacher (UDE, ).

The participating institutions view equity and diversity as an integral part of academic excellence and are committed to accessibility for all students and employees. All candidates will be considered, although applications are particularly encouraged from women and under-represented groups. In accordance with German state equality legislation, women with equal qualifications will be given priority. People with disabilities are also encouraged to apply (see Section 2 Paragraph 3 of the German Social Code, SGB IX.)

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