Postdoctoral Position: In-situ Diagnostics for PLD4Energy Dutch Institute for Fundamental Energy Research DIFFER in Netherlands

The Dutch Institute for Fundamental Energy Research (DIFFER) invites applications for a postdoctoral position focused on in-situ diagnostics for the PLD4Energy project. DIFFER is a leading research institute dedicated to advancing fundamental research on materials, processes, and systems for a sustainable global energy infrastructure. The institute's research themes include fusion energy and chemical energy, and it collaborates closely with both academic and industrial partners worldwide.

This postdoctoral position centers on the development and optimization of novel in-situ diagnostics for a Pulsed Laser Deposition (PLD) cluster line, which includes two PLD chambers and a sputter chamber. The successful candidate will work on characterizing thin films during and after deposition, investigating properties such as structure, composition, optical characteristics, stress/strain, and ferroelectricity. The diagnostics are developed in collaboration with industry and academic partners, including the University of Twente and Technical University Eindhoven.

The role involves setting up and optimizing in-situ diagnostics, conducting thin film deposition and characterization, analyzing data, and developing analysis protocols as needed. The postdoc will collaborate with technical and scientific staff at the PLD4Energy facility and external partners, supervise students at various levels, disseminate research findings at conferences and in scientific publications, and contribute to research proposals and projects.

Applicants should have a PhD (or be near completion) in materials science, engineering, chemistry, or physics, with strong experience in in-situ thin film characterization and/or vacuum deposition methods. Expertise in Pulsed Laser Deposition is highly valued. Excellent English communication skills are required, and candidates should be enthusiastic about working in a diverse, international, and interdisciplinary environment.

The position is full-time (1 FTE) for two years, based at DIFFER in Eindhoven, with employment through the Dutch Research Council (NWO). The role offers a competitive salary (pay scale 10) and comprehensive employee benefits, including support for work-life balance. DIFFER is committed to diversity and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

The application deadline is April 30, 2026. For more information, contact Dr. Anja Bieberle-Hütter at [email protected]. Apply via the DIFFER vacancies portal.