Assistant Research Professor of MOCVD Thin Films

Description

The Materials Research Institute at Penn State University seeks outstanding applicants for a non-tenure track Assistant Research Professor position focused on development and implementation of in vacuo optical characterization methods to study the growth and properties of wafer-scale two-dimensional (2D) materials. The position is part of the NSF Materials Innovation Platform (MIP) national facility at Penn State – the 2D Crystal Consortium (2DCC) - which is focused on the development of 2D chalcogenide films and crystals for applications in next-generation electronics. The Assistant Research Professor will work with current 2DCC faculty and staff and external vendors to develop equipment and methods for in vacuo transfer and optical characterization of wafer-scale 2D chalcogenide films and use these methods to study the growth of 2D monolayers and heterostructures grown by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). Applicants for the position should have a background in materials synthesis and relevant experience in optical characterization methods such as Raman spectroscopy, photoluminescence, spectroscopic ellipsometry, optical reflectance, etc. Relevant hands-on skills with vacuum equipment design and operation are a plus. The Assistant Research Professor will perform world-leading 2D materials synthesis research aligned to the goals of the 2DCC-MIP, including in situ characterization tool development for both in-house research and the support of research projects by the external user community. The Assistant Research Professor will also assist in the coordination and management of the Materials Innovation Platform, including facilitating user needs, preparation of reports for research sponsors, and scientific outreach to the professional research community. Candidates for this position must have a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field and a strong record of relevant research. Specific experience with optical spectroscopy, in situ characterization and/or CVD growth of compound semiconductors, oxides, chalcogenides, etc. is desired. Successful candidates should have a demonstrated record of collaborative research and experience leading and contributing toward multiple projects as well as demonstrated experience working with external collaborators in a group setting. This position requires excellent communication skills and the ability to work in a team environment in support of the goals of the 2DCC in-house research and its users and demonstrated ability to conduct independent research, as evidenced by a strong track record in related publications. To be considered for this position, applicants should include a curriculum vitae, a cover letter with a summary of relevant skills and experience and contact information for three professional references (name, position title, mailing address, telephone number, and e-mail address). Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. This is a fixed term position with excellent opportunities for refunding.