PHD STUDENT – PHOTOCURRENT IN LOW-DIMENSIONAL QUANTUM MATERIALS

Job Title.
PhD student - Photocurrent in low-dimensional quantum materials Research area or group.
Ultra-fast dynamics in Nano-scale Systems Description of Group.
Our research encompasses the broad field of opto-electronics in nano-scale systems, with a particular focus on studying emergent quantum phenomena in Van der Waals heterostructures using light.
We combine a broad range of techniques ranging from continuous wave photocurrent to ultra-fast pump-probe spectroscopy.
Our main research lines include studying carrier dynamics and quantum phases on ultra-fast time-scales, probing quantum geometry and topology in condensed matter systems using light, and developing next-generation opto-electronics with potential in terahertz, energy harvesting and quantum sensing technologies.
Project description - Moiré-based Quantum Photovoltaics The conversion of light into electrical signals is one of the most fundamental phenomena underlying modern technology ranging from wireless communications, to medical imaging, to energy harvesting.
This PhD is focused on engineering radically different types of opto-electronic response using quantum properties that are unique to a very special class of quantum materials known as moiré superlattices.
With the discovery of graphene in , two-dimensional (2D) Van der Waals heterostructures have revolutionized the capabilities of semiconductor heterostructure engineering allowing endless possibilities including layer selectivity down to the atomic limit, and the possibility to combine virtually any material.
A remarkable design principle of these heterostructures, is that individual 2D layers can be twisted relative to each other creating outstanding quantum properties that cannot be obtained in natural crystals.
Just recently, researchers found that their electronic, optical, and opto-electronic properties are extremely sensitive to this twist-angle, creating a giant design space for engineering new types of quantum material.
As such, completely novel quantum phases and properties can emerge.
Quantum Photovoltaic response refers to one such phenomena, in which the conversion of light into electrical signals is driven by the wave-like quantum properties of electrons in crystals.
The project is focused on performing fundamental photocurrent and electron transport studies in a very special class of quantum materials - twisted moiré superlattices.
The studied devices are expected to have an impact on real device applications related to terahertz detectors, energy harvesting and quantum technologies.
Main Tasks and responsibilities.
The successful candidate will be trained in state-of-the-art techniques in 2D materials heterostructure engineering including the fabrication of moiré quantum matter.
Using this exceptional quantum simulator, the researcher will explore the opto-electronic properties of this material using a range of techniques available in our group.
The candidate will use low-temperature electron transport studies to characterize new types of material heterostructures and photocurrent to explore emerging quantum phases and quantum photovoltaic responses.
If interested, the candidate will also have the opportunity to take their fundamental research project into an applied setting.
Additional responsibilities may include supervision of master's students, writing of academic papers related to the candidate's research and preparing presentations for disseminating research at scientific conferences.
Requirements Masters' degree (or equivalent or higher) in physics/quantum technologies/natural science/engineering/nanotechnology.
Interest in semiconductor physics and devices, quantum technologies and nanofabrication techniques Capability to work in a team, collaborate with other students and post-doctoral researchers and participate in scientific discussions openly.
Skills to be obtained Essential technical skills for carrying out research in semiconductor physics, optics and quantum technologies that are transferable to industrial settings.
nanofabrication, experimental optics, low-noise electrical measurements, high-frequency measurements, scanning probe microscopy.
Capabilities to developing your own research themes and ideas Experience with paper writing, project management and supervision of Masters students (final years).
Presentation skills and critical thinking Contact.
Dr.
Roshan Krishna Kumar -  https://scholar.
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