We are currently looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with expertise related to modelling of the optical response of materials on the atomic scale.
The successful candidate (m/f/d) will join a progressive Light and matter theory group at the Institute of Physics (FZU) of the Czech Academy of Science led by Tomáš Neuman. The team investigates atomic-scale optical properties of molecules and low-dimensional materials, particularly in the context of scanning probe microscopy and spectroscopy.
What you will do
- Focus on the investigation of transport and optical properties of molecules and other low dimensional materials (transition-metal dichalcogenides, boron nitride, graphene-based structures, intrinsic, or artificially created defects in them, or [hetero]structures derived from them); perform, analyze, and interpret electronic-structure calculations using suitable first-principles software
- Integrate results of ab-initio calculations into models addressing light-matter interaction in atomic-scale optical environments (light emission in scanning tunneling microscopy – STML, tip-enhanced photoluminescence - TEPL). This involves, e.g., solving Maxwell or Poisson equations in dielectric environments with suitable input sources
- Develop models to address the dynamics of electrons, excitons, and photons in atomic-scale optical environments (e.g., quantum master equation, Lindblad formalism)
- Participate in group meetings, preparation of manuscripts, and dissemination of results at conferences
Work in an international environment in the heart of Europe and collaborate with our global partners in Europe and beyond
What we expect
- PhD in physics, chemistry, or related field
- Operational knowledge of methods to address excitations in 2D materials and derived structures (e.g., Quantum Espresso, ABINIT, Gaussian). Programming skills (e.g., Python, Matlab, FORTRAN, C, C++
- At least 2 publications demonstrating research contributions
- Conceptual understanding of relevant physical phenomena and the ability to translate the concepts into practical models and solutions
- Capacity to independently conduct research, develop innovative ideas, and drive projects forward
- Will to learn new techniques and approaches
- Ability to collaborate effectively with a diverse team of researchers and students
- Excellent communication skills
- Fluent in English (written and spoken)
- Experience with ab-initio modelling of optical properties of molecules and/or 2D materials is an advantage
- Knowledge of the theory of plasmonics and nanophotonics and the methods used therein is an advantage
- Modelling of scanning-tunneling microscopy and related phenomena is an advantage
Why join us
- Interesting work in cutting-edge research and development of atomic-scale optics
- Collaboration with international partners
- Participation in multidisciplinary scientific projects
- 5 weeks of vacation + 6 days of personal leave
- Meal allowance, own canteen in the area
- After the first year of employment, contribution to pension and life insurance, contribution to recreation, culture or sports
- English lessons at the workplace
- Possibility to use the recreational facilities of the FZU in Krkonoše
- Outdoor sports facilities (tennis, volleyball), Multisport card and other benefits
- Find out more about us - Why FZU?
It´s good to know
- Place of work – Cukrovarnická, Prague 6 – Střešovice
- Start of employment in 2025
- Full-time
- 1-year contract (possible extension up to 3 years upon mutual agreement)
- We expect applications by 31 Dec 2024
- Interested candidates are invited to apply by sending the following documents via the application form: A cover letter detailing career objectives and research interests, curriculum vitae (CV), and transcripts of degrees/diplomas.
- For additional information, please get in touch with Dr. Tomáš Neuman Tato e-mailová adresa je chráněna před spamboty. Pro její zobrazení musíte mít povolen Javascript..
We look forward to hearing from you!
FZU – Institute of Physics of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic is a leading public research institution based in Prague. FZU is the largest institute of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic with more than 1100 employees and focuses on basic and applied research in the field of physics. Our top researchers strive to understand and explain the basic phenomena and processes of how the world works and thus respond to the current scientific and technical challenges of our society.
As an employer, FZU supports equal opportunities and diversity. This approach helps to foster a positive work culture and creates a supportive environment for all employees. The principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion are embedded in our policies and hiring practices, providing a solid foundation for fair selection processes.
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We would like to inform you that by sending a reply to the advertisement, you provide the relevant administrator with your personal data for the purpose of conducting the selection procedure and concluding an employment contract or agreement (DPP, DPC) regarding the position you have chosen. This processing of your personal data will be carried out on the legal basis of the performance of a contract pursuant to Article 6 para. 1 lit. b) the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Your personal data will be processed only to the extent necessary and only for the duration of the selection procedure for the given position. The processing of your personal data will be sufficiently secured, your personal data will not be passed on to third parties without your consent. In accordance with applicable law, we inform you that you have the right to (i) access your personal data, (ii) correct or complete inaccurate or false personal data, (iii) to erasure of personal data, (iv) to restrict the processing of personal data in special cases, (v) to data portability, (vi) to object to processing and (vii) to contact the Office for Personal Data Protection.