Postdoc in Plasma-Surface Interactions and Thin Film Coatings for XUV Optics University of Twente in Netherlands

University of Twente is advertising a Postdoc position in plasma-surface interactions and thin film coatings within the XUV Optics Group at the MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology.

The project focuses on understanding how hydrogen plasma, radicals, and ions interact with thin films, with the goal of improving predictions of coating lifetime and performance. The work is closely connected to applications in EUV lithography, materials processing, and plasma catalysis. A major part of the research involves designing thin-film model systems, measuring hydrogen uptake, and analysing data from in-situ neutron reflectometry in collaboration with the Technical University of Delft.

The postdoc will work in a state-of-the-art thin film laboratory and collaborate with academic and industrial partners, including companies such as Zeiss, ASML, Malvern Panalytical, and VDL. The role combines experimental work, data fitting and analysis, and comparison with other hydrogen uptake and diffusion techniques.

Eligibility highlights: a PhD in physics, physical chemistry, or materials science is required or expected soon; experience with plasma/ion beam interactions, PVD thin films, surface physics/chemistry, or advanced characterization methods such as neutron or X-ray reflectometry is highly desirable. Strong English skills and the ability to work in a collaborative environment are expected.

Funding and conditions: this is a 1-year full-time postdoc appointment. Salary is €4,241–€5,538 gross per month, plus holiday allowance, year-end bonus, pension, sports access, leave hours, and development support.

Application deadline: 13 July 2026. Apply through the University of Twente careers portal and include a CV, motivation letter, publications if applicable, English proficiency evidence if available, and two references.