Doctoral Position in functional oxide thin films

Our research investigates how crystal chemistry, structure, and dimensionality can be used to control and create functionality in complex inorganic solids. We are currently establishing a laboratory for thin-film synthesis using physical vapor deposition methods, structural modification using wet-chemistry-based approaches, and advanced structural and functional characterization. Our long-term goal is to develop materials with potential for technology transfer to semiconductor and photonic industries, as well as energy conversion and storage applications.

Project background

Controlling and coupling electric, magnetic, and structural properties within a single material could open new routes towards low-power electronics. Transition-metal perovskite oxides offer a versatile platform for this purpose: their A- and B-cation chemistry can be varied to tune the interplay between lattice, orbital, spin, and charge degrees of freedom.

In this experimental Doctoral project, you will investigate layered perovskite-based oxides, in which spacer layers interrupt the three-dimensional perovskite network. This lowers the crystal symmetry, introduces strong anisotropy, and promotes structural distortions that couple magnetic and ferroelectric order. In epitaxial thin films, strain and interfaces offer additional ways to engineer these properties.

Job description

• Growing epitaxial thin films and heterostructures by pulsed-laser deposition and magnetron sputtering and using epitaxial strain and interfacial effects to stabilize metastable phases with desired structural, electronic, and magnetic functionality.
• Thin-film structural and functional characterization using X-ray diffraction, scanning-probe microscopy, magnetometry, synchrotron-based experiments (e.g., at Paul Scherrer Institute)
• Fabricating thin-film devices in a cleanroom and performing electrical and transport characterization
• Using first-principles calculations and machine-learning foundation models during the initial stage of the project to identify promising metastable compositions for experimental stabilization as thin films
• Presenting your results at scientific conferences, publishing your work, and collaborating with researchers within the group and internationally

Profile

• You should hold a master’s degree in chemistry, physics, materials science or a related field
• We are looking for a highly motivated, curious, and self-driven researcher, who would be enthusiastic about helping establish a new laboratory: contributing to the installation of equipment, developing reliable experimental protocols and helping create a collaborative group culture
• Excellent spoken and written English
• Willingness to work in an international and diverse team

Experience in one or more of the following areas would be advantageous, but not required: thin-film deposition, solid-state synthesis, crystallography, complex transition-metal oxides, scanning probe microscopy, electrical transport measurements, device fabrication, first-principles material modelling.

We offer

• A fully funded doctoral position for four years with a competitive salary according to ETH standards
• Access to a state-of-the-art ultra-high-vacuum thin-film deposition cluster, a laboratory for wet-chemical and solid-state synthesis, and advanced structural and functional characterization facilities
• Excellent training opportunities and employment conditions according to ETH Zurich standards
• You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare and attractive pension benefits
• You will join a collaborative, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating research environment that values scientific curiosity, creativity, and independence

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents as a single PDF file:

• Cover letter (1 page) describing relevant skills and experience, research interests, and reasons for applying for the position
• CV, including qualifications and past academic and professional experience
• Academic transcripts for all university degrees
• Names and contact details of two referees (please inform them that they may be contacted)
• A representative example of your research work, if available, such as a peer-reviewed publication or thesis

The targeted starting date is 01.11.2026 or upon mutual agreement. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Early applications are therefore strongly encouraged.

Further information about the Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Elzbieta Gradauskaite, gradause@ethz.ch (no applications).

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through the online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.