Mechanical | Scholarship for Nigerians and Africans - Part 5

Postdoctoral Position: Architecture and Circuit Design for Digital Logic based on Nanoelectromechanical Switch Devices, Switzerland

The traditional scaling of CMOS technology is increasingly constrained by power limitations (e.g., saturation of the clock frequency in microprocessors). Therefore the microelectronic industry is researching radically new devices that drastically improve the energy efficiency of microelectronic systems. One promising – still largely unexplored – technology is based on NanoElectroMechanical (NEM) switches which potentially offer significant improvements in energy efficiency. In this project, we investigate the viability of this technology by developing a competitive and manufacturable device, perform materials research to address inherent reliability issues, and develop tools and methodologies to build complex logic based on novel NEM switch devices.

To strengthen our team, we are seeking a highly motivated individual with very good interpersonal skills and a strong background in mixed-signal circuit design as well as in the design and implementation of MEMS/NEMS interface circuitry.
The successful candidate will have an important role in the system design of digital logic based on NEM switches. Hence we are seeking candidates having a thorough understanding of mixed-signal circuit design as well as a deep understanding the tools and methodologies used of in digital logic design. Basic knowledge in micro- and nanofabrication and interface circuitry to nanomechanical devices would be an additional asset.
Fellowship Application Deadline:
31/01/2011
Further Fellowship Information and Application

Postdoctoral for project MANTLE RHEOLOGY, France: Micromechanical modeling

The post-doc will be involved in the micromechanical modeling at the polycrystal scale. The aim is to integrate into the polycrystal model slip-system resistances inferred from experimental data, ab initio calculations, and Dislocation Dynamics (DDD). The used polycrystal model will be based on mean-field homogenization methods (self-consistent scheme associated with the “Second-Order” linearization procedure of Ponte Castañeda), although numerical computations from full-field methods could be also performed if necessary. Micromechanical modeling of such material is a challenging task since all mineral phases comprising the upper mantle exhibit an extreme viscoplastic anisotropy at the grain scale, with three or less known independent slip systems. There are many effects to be investigated, important for
both geophysical and material sciences issues, e.g.: strain partition and texture development in multiphase minerals, the rheology of partially melted polycrystals, the introduction of diffusion based mechanisms (such as dislocation climb), etc.
Fellowship Application Deadline: January 2011
Further Fellowship Information and Application

4 Postdoctoral Positions in Bio/Nanotechnology and Material Science, Italy

Applications are invited for 4 Post-doctoral positions in bio/nanotechnology and material science related research programs. The research activities will take place in the Smart Materials Group of the (CBN), Italian Institute of Technology (IIT) that is based in Lecce, Italy.

The Center possesses world class facilities and expertise in the areas of materials processing and development with emphasis to surface science, nanoparticles production, magnetic, conducting and biocompatible nanocomposites, thermo/mechanical testing, laser spectroscopy, confocal and scanning probe microscopies, biology/biotechnology, genomics/proteomics, third generation photovoltaics, high performance computing, density functional-theory and computational nanoscience. Close collaborations exist with industry, University departments, and other research centers in Italy and abroad.

Position 1
Two years postdoctoral position in development and thermo/mechanical characterization of novel plastic nanocomposite materials targeting on mechanically reinforced and thermally resistive materials to be used in the areas of buildings and constructions, automotive and aviation industry, packaging. The candidate must have a PhD in one of the following areas: Materials Science, Physics, Engineering. Previous experience in thermo/mechanical characterization of materials will be appreciated.

Position 2
Two years postdoctoral position in the development, processing, chemical modifications and characterization of natural polymers, biopolymers and biocompatible polymers. The candidate must have a PhD in one of the following areas: Chemistry, Material Science, Chemical Engineering, Bio Engineering. Previous experience in polymer chemistry is essential, and experience in biopolymers will be highly appreciated.

Position 3
Two years postdoctoral position in surface processing and characterization of materials. The candidate must have a PhD in one of the following areas: Chemistry, Physics, Material Science, Chemical Engineering. Candidates with previous experience in surface patterning (photopatterning, laser ablation, electrochemical patterning, etc.), thin film deposition, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy will be preferred.

Position 4
Two years postdoctoral position in the development and characterization of magnetic and conducting polymer-based nanocomposites. The candidate must have a PhD in one of the following areas: Physics, Material Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering. Candidates with previous experience in any of the following fields: nanoparticles preparation, nanocomposites preparation, measurements of conductivity, magnetic characterization will be preferred.
Fellowship Application Deadline: 30 January 2011
Further Fellowship Information and Application