Position Details
Last application date: Aug 31, 2026 17:00
Department: WE04 - Department of Solid State Sciences
Degree: Master of Science degree in physics, chemistry, engineering physics, chemical engineering or related discipline
Occupancy rate: 100%
Vacancy type: Research staff
ABOUT GHENT UNIVERSITY
Ghent University is a leading European research university with a strong international profile. Employing more than 15,000 staff members, it is actively engaged in education, cutting-edge research, and societal service. With 11 faculties and more than 85 departments, Ghent University offers high-quality, research-driven study programmes grounded in research in a wide range of academic disciplines. It is one of the largest and most attractive employers in the region, offering excellent career opportunities in an inspiring academic environment.
ABOUT COCOON
This PhD position is hosted by the Conformal Coating of Nanomaterials (CoCooN) research group within the Department of Solid State Sciences. CoCooN is internationally recognized for its expertise in Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) and advanced materials characterization.
CONTEXT
Atomic layer deposition (ALD) is a key enabling technology for continued scaling in the semiconductor industry. This project aims to accelerate and rationalize area-selective deposition by exploiting advanced in situ characterization capabilities.
YOUR TASKS
- Conduct experimental research primarily within the state-of-the-art facilities of the CoCooN group and at synchrotron facilities abroad.
- Develop passivation strategies for area-selective ALD using gas-phase inhibitor molecules, investigate controlled surface cleaning approaches and apply in situ spectroscopy.
- Perform script-based data analysis of large experimental datasets.
- Publish research findings in leading international journals and present at international conferences.
- Supervise M.Sc. students and contribute to teaching activities.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
- Master of Science degree in physics, chemistry, engineering physics, chemical engineering or related discipline.
- Strong interest in nanofabrication, nanopatterning, thin film deposition and spectroscopy.
- Proficient in Python programming.
- Strong oral and written communication skills and fluency in English.
- Motivated to complete a PhD within 4 years.
WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU
Full-time position as a doctoral fellow, initial 12 months extendable to 48 months. Contract starts August 01, 2026 at the earliest. Fellowship amount is 100% of the net salary of an AAP member.