Publisher
source

ETH Zurich

Doctoral Position in Topochemical Tuning of Layered Oxides at ETH Zurich ETH Zurich in Switzerland

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Chemistry

Funding

Fully funded doctoral position for four years with a competitive salary according to ETH standards. Includes access to advanced synthesis and characterization facilities and standard ETH Zurich employment benefits.

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Country

Switzerland

University

ETH Zurich

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Keywords

Chemistry
Materials Science
Solid State Physics
Magnetometry
Aqueous Chemistry
Physics

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About this position

Doctoral Position in Topochemical Tuning of Layered Oxides at ETH Zurich, in the newly established Solid-State Materials Chemistry Group within the Laboratory of Inorganic Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences (D-CHAB).

This PhD project focuses on topochemical transformations in layered perovskite oxides and related complex inorganic solids. The research explores how crystal chemistry, structure, and dimensionality can be used to control functionality, with emphasis on thin-film synthesis, wet-chemistry-based structural modification, and advanced structural/functional characterization.

Project work includes preparing layered oxide precursors as thin films (pulsed-laser deposition), single crystals (floating zone method), or nanoparticles (hydrothermal synthesis); developing post-growth topochemical reactions such as ion exchange, intercalation, and redox reactions; and tracking changes using X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, scanning-probe microscopy, magnetometry, electrical measurements, and large-scale facilities such as the Paul Scherrer Institute.

The position is ideal for candidates interested in chemistry, materials science, and physics, especially those with a background in inorganic materials synthesis and an interest in functional oxides, magnetic order, ferroelectricity, electronic transport, and ionic transport. The group is building a new laboratory and welcomes applicants who are enthusiastic about contributing to equipment installation, safe synthetic procedures, and a collaborative research culture.

The role is fully funded for four years with a competitive salary according to ETH standards, plus access to state-of-the-art thin-film deposition and characterization infrastructure and standard ETH Zurich benefits.

Eligibility highlights: a master's degree in chemistry, materials science, physics, or a related field; strong English; and willingness to work in an international, diverse team. Helpful experience includes solid-state synthesis, soft-chemical methods, hydrothermal/solvothermal synthesis, thin-film deposition, single-crystal synthesis, microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, or transport measurements.

Applications are reviewed immediately and continue until the position is filled. The targeted start date is 01.11.2026 or by mutual agreement. Apply online with a single PDF containing a cover letter, CV, transcripts, referee contacts, and an example of research work if available.

Funding details

Fully funded doctoral position for four years with a competitive salary according to ETH standards. Includes access to advanced synthesis and characterization facilities and standard ETH Zurich employment benefits.

What's required

Applicants should hold a master's degree in chemistry, materials science, physics, or a related field and have a foundation in inorganic materials synthesis. Strong spoken and written English is required. Experience in inorganic or solid-state synthesis, solution-based and soft-chemical methods, hydrothermal or solvothermal synthesis, thin-film deposition, single-crystal synthesis, scanning probe microscopy, electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, or electrical transport measurements is advantageous but not required. The role also seeks a highly motivated, curious, self-driven researcher willing to help establish a new laboratory and work in an international, diverse team.

How to apply

Prepare a single PDF containing a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, names and contact details of two referees, and a representative example of research work if available. Submit the application only through the online portal; email and postal applications are not accepted.

More information can be found here

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