PhD Opportunity: Fabricating 2D-Microlasers at IMDEA Nanociencia, Madrid, Spain
Two-dimensional (2d) materials are, undoubtedly, going to play an important role in the next generation photonic and optoelectronic industry. With a huge light-matter interaction they are the ideal materials for nanoscale devices active material. Two-dimensional (2D) materials form atomically thin sheets and can be obtained either by growing a thin film or by exfoliating layers from a bulk crystal.
The route to obtain the 2D material plays an important role on its applicability on devices. Lateral size, defect density or doping are just few parameters that will rule the applicability of the materials in different optoelectronic devices.
We propose a PhD project in which the candidate will study the photophysics and photonic properties of 2D materials obtained by 2 different methods. To do so, he/she will acquire skills on 2D monolayer production via both Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) and Liquid phase exfoliation (LPE). To improve sample preparation, the candidate is offered to experience a six-months scientific secondment at Aixtron or at Kassel University, in collaboration with either Prof. Michael Heuken (expert on CVD) or Prof. Claudia Backes (expert on LPE), respectively.
In order to characterize samples, the student will learn conventional spectroscopic and microscopy techniques such as absorption, photoluminescence or AFM. At this stage, the PhD candidate is prepared to perform a deep characterization of the 2D materials and study the coupling of the 2D materials emission with photonic structures.
A deep spectroscopic characterization of the 2D nanosheets involves being trained on Time-resolved photoluminescence or femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy at IMDEA Nanociencia.
Optical coupling between 2D materials and photonic structures involves the fabrication of distributed feedback lasers with 2D-based layers deposited on top of diffractive structures, such as 1D gratings obtained by nanoimprint lithography or 2D photonic cavities via template-assisted self-assembly. Additionally, the fabrication of microlasers based on 2D materials doped fibres obtained by electrospinning will be addressed.
In summary, we propose a PhD project challenging but feasible considering the scientific team involved. We expect the candidate to reach a position of research maturity able of influencing decisions that will affect its mid- and long-term future. The student will benefit from all the internal programs about career development at IMDEA Nanociencia.
Deadline for application: 10 April 2023
This project is part of the IDEAL PhD Fellowship Programme led by Fundación IMDEA Nanociencia and co-funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) COFUND programmes. IDEAL PhD will offer 12 fellowships in two open calls to outstanding doctoral candidates to undertake a PhD research project in any of the programmes at the Institute.