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Instituto de Ciencia de Materiales de Madrid (ICMM-CSIC)

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PhD position: Vibrational Fingerprints of Energy Dissipation Instituto de Ciencia de Materiales de Madrid (ICMM-CSIC) in Spain

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Chemistry

Funding

Available

Deadline

Sep 30, 2026

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Country

Spain

University

Instituto de Ciencia de Materiales de Madrid (ICMM-CSIC)

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Keywords

Chemistry
Spectroscopy
Surface Science
Cryo-electron Microscopy
Symbolic Regression
Frictional Mechanics
Adhesion Science
Dissipation
Scanning Tunneling Microscopy
Physics

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About this position

PhD position in Vibrational Fingerprints of Energy Dissipation at the Instituto de Ciencia de Materiales de Madrid (ICMM-CSIC) in Madrid, Spain. This project aims to deliver the first real-time, atomically resolved view of how energy is dissipated in single-atom contacts, addressing the microscopic origin of friction and adhesion. The work combines state-of-the-art experimental nanoscience with theoretical and data-driven tools, making it attractive for students interested in surface science, nanoscale spectroscopy, and quantum/atomic-scale energy transfer.

The successful candidate will work in the newly commissioned cryogenic aperture-less SNOM (Photon-STM lab). The research will involve manipulating single molecules on inorganic surfaces, using a picowatt-sensitive tuning-fork sensor to measure dissipated energy while lifting a molecule from the surface. Time-resolved tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS) will be used to identify vibrational modes and energy-flow pathways. The project builds on group expertise in Ångstrom-scale TERS imaging and time-correlated single photon counting, and is complemented by non-equilibrium simulations in collaboration with G. Vilhena’s group, symbolic regression through the AI-Lab, and international research stays.

The position is offered as an FPI–Severo Ochoa contract, with access to cutting-edge infrastructure and a strong international network. The host institute emphasizes equal opportunities and inclusiveness. Applicants should hold a Master degree or equivalent, preferably with experience in ultra-high vacuum and scanning probe microscopies, and should have good English communication skills. The application deadline is 30 September 2026, 15:00 (Europe/Brussels). To apply, email a CV and motivation letter in English and PDF format to [email protected] with subject line PhD-2026-5.

Funding details

Available

What's required

Applicants should have a Master Degree or equivalent in Physics or a related field. Required/preferred skills include ultra-high vacuum experience and scanning probe microscopies. Good interpersonal skills are required, and good written and oral communication skills in English are highly desirable; English level: good.

How to apply

Send a CV (maximum two A4 pages) and a motivation letter for this doctoral position (maximum one A4 page) by email to [email protected]. Use the subject line 'PhD-2026-5'. Submit all materials in English and PDF format before 30 September 2026, 15:00 h.

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