TUD Dresden University of Technology, recognized as a University of Excellence, is a leading research institution in Germany with a strong commitment to addressing global challenges. The Cluster of Excellence "Responsible Electronics in the Climate Change Era (REC²)" is dedicated to developing sustainable solutions for the future of electronics, focusing on reducing resource and energy consumption and minimizing electronic waste. REC² brings together expertise from natural sciences, engineering, humanities, social sciences, and medicine, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and societal impact.

This PhD position is offered at the Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Institute of Solid State Electronics, Chair of Coating Technologies in Electronics, within the REC² Cluster. The research project centers on developing magnetron sputter epitaxy (MSE) as a sustainable core technology for producing group III-nitride semiconductors, which are crucial for power electronics and related applications. Key research areas include strain management, buffer structure development, and AlGaN growth for AlGaN/GaN heterostructures. The successful candidate will collaborate with a diverse team, including experts in sustainability and social sciences, and benefit from the cluster’s innovative, interdisciplinary environment.

The position is full-time, starting March 1, 2026, and is limited to three years with a possible one-year extension. Employment is governed by the Fixed Term Research Contracts Act (WissZeitVG), and remuneration is according to salary group E 13 TV-L. The role offers opportunities for further academic qualification (typically a PhD), access to state-of-the-art research facilities, and the possibility to apply for GreenRiskFunds to pursue high-risk/high-gain research ideas. International exchange with partner institutions in the Global South and structured supervision, including a Thesis Advisory Committee and REC² mentoring board, are integral parts of the program.

Applicants should hold a master’s degree (or equivalent) in Physics, Materials Science, or a related field, and possess a solution-driven, independent work attitude. Experience with magnetron sputtering, thin film growth, epitaxy, power electronics, or III-nitride semiconductor materials/devices, as well as material characterization, is beneficial. Basic knowledge of plasma physics, thin-film technology, and semiconductor physics is advantageous. Fluency in English (written and oral) is required.

TUD Dresden University of Technology is committed to diversity, gender equality, and a family-friendly work environment. Women and candidates with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. Applications should be submitted in English as a single PDF file, including a motivation letter, CV, degree certificate, transcript of grades, and proof of English language skills, by January 6, 2026. Send your application via the TUD SecureMail Portal or by email to Prof. Elizabeth von Hauff at [email protected]. For further details on data protection, visit the university’s career website.

This position offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in sustainable electronics, develop advanced skills in materials science and semiconductor technology, and engage with a vibrant, interdisciplinary academic community at one of Germany’s top universities.