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Materials Science and Nanotechnology● OpenPreview

Doctoral Position in Semiconductor Nanocrystal Characterization

Investigate the synthesis, structure, and optical properties of semiconductor nanocrystals through advanced microscopy and spectroscopy.

Best for:Best for master's graduates in physics, chemistry, or materials science with a strong interest in nanoscale characterization and advanced optical or electron microscopy.

ETH Zurich · Zurich, Switzerland · R1 · First-stage researcher
More professors at ETH Zurich
semiconductor nanocrystalsoptical spectroscopyelectron microscopynanomaterialsquantum dots
Deadline
—
Funding
—
4 years
Start date
October 1, 2026
Fixed-term
Location
Zurich
Switzerland

Overview

The Optical Materials Engineering Laboratory at ETH Zurich offers a 4-year doctoral position focusing on the experimental characterization of semiconductor nanocrystals. The successful candidate will examine the optical heterogeneity and three-dimensional atomic-scale structure of magic-sized nanocrystals using advanced single-particle spectroscopy and cryogenic electron microscopy. Working within an interdisciplinary team in the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, the doctoral student will collaborate closely with researchers in synthesis and theoretical modeling to optimize nanomaterials. Applicants are expected to hold a relevant master's degree and demonstrate a strong foundation in experimental sciences.

nanocrystalsspectroscopyelectron microscopyquantum dotsmagic-sized nanocrystalsoptical propertiessingle-particle analysis

What you'll do

  • Characterize semiconductor nanocrystals using complementary optical and structural experimental techniques.
  • Investigate optical properties, emission linewidths, and excited-state dynamics via ensemble and single-particle spectroscopy.
  • Determine three-dimensional structures of nanocrystals with near-atomic resolution using cryogenic electron microscopy and single-particle analysis.
  • Collaborate with team members responsible for nanocrystal synthesis and theoretical modeling to refine experimental procedures and sample optimization.
  • Contribute to general laboratory operations, maintain equipment, and participate in teaching and student supervision activities.

Requirements

Degree required: MSc degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, mechanical engineering, nanoscience, physics, or a closely related discipline

Degree offered: PhD

Language: English; fluent in both oral and written communication

Instruction: English

Required skills
  • Strong experimental and quantitative foundation in physical sciences or engineering
  • Ability to work independently and practice careful laboratory procedures
  • Strong collaborative skills within an international and multidisciplinary research team
Nice to have
Experience with optical spectroscopy or microscopyFamiliarity with time-resolved or single-particle measurementsBackground in electron microscopyProficiency in image processing, 3D reconstruction, or single-particle analysisKnowledge of semiconductor nanocrystals, quantum dots, or nanoscale materialsExperience with machine learning, scientific programming, or quantitative data analysis
Eligibility
  • Must hold or be close to completing an MSc degree in a relevant discipline
  • Must meet the admission requirements for a doctoral program at ETH Zurich

Funding & terms

Type
Unknown
Amount
—
Duration
4 years
Programme
ETH Zurich
ETH Zurich

How to apply

Candidates must submit their applications exclusively through the online application portal of ETH Zurich. The application package must include a motivation cover letter, a complete curriculum vitae, relevant diplomas and course transcripts, and contact details for at least three references. Direct applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Documents required
  • Cover letter
  • CV
  • Diplomas and course transcripts
  • 3 reference contacts
↗Apply on site

Contact

David J. Norris· Professor

dnorris@ethz.ch

http://www.omel.ethz.ch

DN
Prof.
David Norris
Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering (D-MAVT)
Lab
Optical Materials Engineering Laboratory
ETH Zurich
Switzerland
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