Research | Scholarship for Nigerians and Africans - Part 96

Postdoctoral Position: Nanoelectromechanical Switch Devices for Logic Application, Switzerland

There is an immediate opening for a postdoctoral research position in the nanofabrication group at the IBM Research – Zurich laboratory for research on nanoelectromechanical (NEM) switch devices for logic applications.

To overcome the power issue of current CMOS technology, the microelectronic industry needs radically new devices that drastically improve the energy efficiency of microelectronic systems. One promising — yet still largely unexplored — technology is based on NanoElectroMechanical (NEM) switches, which are expected to produce significant improvements in energy efficiency. In this project, we are investigating the viability of this technology by developing a competitive and manufacturable device platform, by performing materials research to address inherent reliability issues, and by developing tools and methodologies to build complex logic.

To strengthen our interdisciplinary team, we are seeking a highly motivated individual with very good interpersonal skills and a strong background in designing and testing NEM systems as well as in applied materials science.

The successful candidate will play an important role in the design and testing of NEM devices. Â Hence we are seeking candidates who have a thorough understanding of the physics related to nanoscale electromechanical devices, experience in the design and characterization of such devices as well as extensive experience in using multi-physics simulation tools (such as ANSYS). Good knowledge of micro- and nanofabrication in addition to familiarity with logic design would be an asset.
Fellowship Application Deadline: 31/01/2011
Further Fellowship Information and Application

PhD Position in Astrophysics: Stellar Activity and Magnetism, Sweden

The successful applicant will work with Oleg Kochukhov on problems connected to the stellar magnetism and activity, in particular spectropolarimetric observations of active stars and investigations of stellar magnetic field topologies. Applicants with backgrounds and interests in stellar physics are particularly encouraged to apply. The position is financed through a research grant from the Swedish Research Council.

To be eligible for a PhD position you should have a basic university degree in physics, astronomy or astrophysics (at least BSc) and fulfill the entry requirements for the PhD programme.
Applications should include a description of research interests and past experience, CV, copies of degree diplomas and grades, two reference letters, and copies of any previous research-related work.

Scholarship Application Deadline: 1 February 2011
Further Scholarship Information and Application

PhD Nanowire Manipulation for Sensing and Spintronics, Netherlands: Applied Physics

This project is implemented in the program on Advanced NanoElectronic Devices within the national program High Tech Systems and Materials (HTSM). The program aims at exploring novel concepts for electronic nano-devices with alternative operating principles and enhanced or novel functionality, enabling new applications particularly in hybrid electronic or smart embedded systems. The network will provide the PhD student a stimulating consortium to work in, with regular progress meetings where academic and industrial partners meet. The present project will be performed in close collaboration with the Holst center.

Semiconductor nanowires provide a powerful platform for novel nano-electronic devices, because of their 1d character, their ability to be engineered, and the potential use of hybrid materials choices. This project aims at manipulating single nanowires and addressing single nanowires in large arrays (using dual-beam FIB/SEM technology and local nanoprobing) on MOVPE grown III/V nanowires. Furthermore, we intend to fabricate hybrid semiconductor-ferromagnet nanowire systems, by exploiting our recent expertise in growing ferromagnetic nanostructures by focussed electron-beam induced deposition (FEBID), and explore their functionality. Research will be motivated by applications in (a) inorganic gas-analysis using electrical conductance nanosensors (close collaboration with the Holst center, Eindhoven), and (b) and hybrid magnetic and spintronic devices.

Appointment and salary

We offer:

* A challenging job in a young, ambitious research team
* A highly dynamical, international, and multidisciplinary research environment
* A full-time appointment for four years (start date as soon as possible)
* Gross monthly salary from €2042 (first year) to €2612 (fourth year) in line with the Collective Agreement for Dutch Universities
* An attractive package of fringe benefits, including end-of-year allowance, a personal development program for Ph.D students (Proof program), and excellent sport facilities

Scholarship Application Deadline: 31/01/2011
Further Scholarship Information and Application