Postdoctoral scholarship: Tuning physical and chemical properties of transition metal clusters and hybrid carbon-metal clusters by composition and size

Quantum Solid-state Physics (QSP) is a research unit of the Department of Physics and Astronomy, one of the five departments of the Faculty of Science of the KU Leuven.

At QSP, we specialise in experimental research of solid-state systems and focuses on quantum phenomena at the atomic and microscopic scale, i.e. on the origin and tunability of functional electronic properties (magnetic, superconducting, semiconducting, dielectric), in systems with reduced dimensionality, from single-atom defects to nanoscale clusters, 2-dimensional materials, thin films, and 3-dimensional heterostructures. Our research is fundamental in nature and, when relevant, applications in functional systems and devices are also explored.
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Responsibilities

The Quantum Solid-state Physics reserarch unit is recruiting a postdoctoral fellow to strengthen the cluster research team of prof. Peter Lievens and prof. Ewald Janssens.

We wish to reinforce the activities on the study of magnetism, optical properties and chemical reactivity of hybrid clusters. Ongoing projects include the interaction of hydrogen with gas phase carbon-metal clusters and carbon dioxide reduction using fullerene-transition metal hybrids as catalysts. An additional topic on cluster magnetism involves a systematic investigation of how magnetism of Rh, Ho and Tm clusters is influenced by doping them with a few atoms of Co and Fe.
As a postdoc researcher, your responsibilities will include the coordination of the daily activities in the gas phase cluster laboratories, supporting Master's and PhD students, as well as developing your own research activities.
The experimental work involves the study of clusters in molecular beams using mass spectrometry, in-beam reactivity studies, infrared and visible light spectroscopy using OPO/OPA tunable lasers, and Stern-Gerlach magnetic deflection experiments. Most experimental studies will be performed in molecular beam setups at KU Leuven, which use laser ablation sources to produce transition metal doped carbon clusters, transition metals on fullerenes, and various alloys of 3d, 4d and 4f elements. In addition, far-infrared spectroscopy experiments will be performed at the free electron laser facility FELIX in The Netherlands.

Profile

• Motivated experimental scientist with a PhD in physics, chemistry or a closely related subject, preferentially with a background in gas-phase experiments, laser spectroscopy and/or cluster beam techniques.
• Experience with high-vacuum technology and molecular beam setups is an essential requirement.
• Additional experience with experience with (infrared) laser spectroscopy, cluster sources, ion guiding and trapping, mass spectrometry, and quantum chemical calculations are strong assets.
• Ability to work in a structured, transparent and accurate way.
• Demonstrable a team player with willingness to actively share your experience and knowledge with colleagues.
• Good networking skills, with goodgood communication skills in English, as you will work in a diverse team and in international collaborations.
• Demonstrable Creativity, persistence and passion for what you.

Offer

• We are offering a offer a 2-year fully-funded postdoc scholarship.
• You will receive a competitive bursary and willenjoy the same facilities as other externally funded researchers. This includes, among other things, access to university infrastructure such as the library, internet, restaurants, and the right to reimbursement of expenses.
• You will have the opportunity to be part of a dynamic team of scientists.
• Your normal place of work will be in Leuven, a historic, vibrant and multicultural city located in the heart of Europe, within 20 minutes from Brussels.
• Start date: as soon as possible - the position is available immediately.

Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Peter Lievens, mail: [emailprotected] or Prof. dr. Ewald Janssens, mail: [emailprotected].

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