PhD Position in Energy Materials, Semiconductor Interfaces and Optoelectronic Materials Ilmenau University of Technology in Germany

Ilmenau University of Technology is advertising a PhD position in the Institute of Physics, Group of Fundamentals of Energy Materials, within the interdisciplinary project Substitution and recycling strategies for critical elements in highly efficient optoelectronic energy materials (SustEnMat). The position is part of the BMFTR-funded Junior Research Group SINATRA: PARASOL and is intended to support the candidate’s own scientific qualification toward a PhD.

The research sits at the intersection of surface science, photoelectrochemistry, semiconductor physics, and sustainability-oriented materials development. The core topic is understanding and engineering semiconductor/oxide/catalyst interfaces for highly efficient optoelectronic energy materials, with close collaboration between researchers from the natural sciences, engineering, and economics. The project aims to contribute to resource-efficient and environmentally responsible material combinations through intensive materials science research.

Planned tasks include epitaxy of III–V semiconductor structures using MOCVD, deposition of metal oxide layers such as TiO₂ and (Al)Ga₂O₃ using ALD, and characterization of the fabricated structures. The successful candidate will also work on surface and interface analysis using XPS and UPS, in situ/operando spectroscopy, photoelectrochemical and photovoltaic measurements, data evaluation, documentation, and the presentation of scientific results. Academic support in teaching, including supervision of thesis projects related to the research topic, is also part of the role, along with publication and conference presentation duties.

Applicants should hold a completed scientific university degree at Master level or equivalent with above-average grades in chemistry, physics, renewable energy technologies, materials science, or a related natural sciences or engineering field. Useful background includes knowledge of semiconductor physics, inorganic and organic chemistry, surface analysis, MOCVD, or ALD. Very good English skills at B2 level are required, and the university asks applicants to provide certificates and references.

The position is located at Technische Universität Ilmenau in Germany and offers remuneration according to TV-L, including a special annual payment, 30 days of vacation, family-friendly flexible working conditions, pension provision, and training and health/sports opportunities. The application deadline is 27 September 2026. Applications should be submitted through the university’s online application portal using the provided link.