Development of Enhanced Thermal Resistor Nanomaterials for Microbolometers
PhD position to advance next-generation microbolometer materials by reducing thermal conductivity via nanoscale engineering.
Best for:Best for materials science PhD candidates with expertise in nanotechnology, thin-film fabrication, and thermal/structural characterization techniques.
Overview
This PhD position at Université Grenoble Alpes focuses on developing high-performance nanomaterials for microbolometers, with a specific emphasis on enhancing thermal resistance in supporting arms to enable smaller pixel pitches. The project leverages controlled nanoscale inhomogeneities to reduce thermal conductivity in materials like nanocrystallized amorphous silicon (nc-aSi). The candidate will employ advanced characterization techniques, including Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and TEM, to correlate deposition conditions with thermal transport properties. The goal is to identify strategies for optimizing thermal robustness and mechanical strength for integration into microbolometer fabrication lines. This interdisciplinary research combines materials science, nanotechnology, and thermal engineering to push the boundaries of infrared sensor technology.
What you'll do
- Develop and characterize nanocrystallized amorphous silicon (nc-aSi) thin films to reduce thermal conductivity for microbolometer applications.
- Employ advanced techniques like Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, TEM, and 3ω method to analyze nanostructure and thermal transport properties.
- Correlate deposition conditions with material performance to optimize thermal resistance strategies.
- Evaluate the technological integration potential of developed materials within microbolometer fabrication lines.
- Assess mechanical strength and thermal robustness of nanomaterials for sensor applications.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to advance next-generation infrared sensor technology.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in Materials Science, Physics, Nanotechnology, or a related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English proficiency (no specific test required)
Instruction: French (for local integration) and English (for research)
- Experience with thin-film fabrication techniques
- Familiarity with nanoscale characterization methods (Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, TEM)
- Knowledge of thermal conductivity measurement techniques (e.g., 3ω method)
- Strong background in materials science or condensed matter physics
- Proficiency in scientific data analysis and interpretation
- Open to international applicants
- No specific nationality restrictions mentioned
- No residency or age limitations specified
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-30
Applicants must submit their CV, cover letter, and academic transcripts through the Campus France portal. Additional documents may include a research proposal or letters of recommendation, depending on the university’s requirements. Ensure all documents are in English or accompanied by certified translations.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Academic transcripts (BSc + MSc)
- Research proposal (if required)
- Letters of recommendation (if required)
Contact
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