PhD Position in Graphene Nanoribbon Quantum Devices

Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting-edge research, Empa's around 1,100 employees make essential contributions to the well-being of society for a future worth living. Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain.

The nanotech@surfaces Laboratory is offering a PhD position focused on integrating atomically precise graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) into van der Waals heterostructures under ultra-high vacuum conditions. GNRs are emerging quantum materials whose electronic structure, topology, and spin states can be engineered with atomic precision, but many reactive GNRs degrade during conventional substrate transfer and fabrication processes. The project aims to develop a fully dry, UHV-compatible transfer pathway that preserves these fragile quantum states during device integration.

The student will commission and operate a dedicated UHV dry-transfer platform and assemble graphene/GNR heterostructures combining atomically precise nanoribbons with graphene electrodes and atomically thin dielectrics. The work combines advanced instrumentation, 2D-material assembly, Raman spectroscopy, and low-temperature STM/STS. A central goal is to investigate how interfaces and electrostatic environments influence the electronic and spin properties of transferred GNRs, progressing from robust armchair GNRs to reactive zigzag-edged and topological nanoribbons hosting correlated quantum states.

The position is suited for highly motivated students interested in experimental condensed matter physics, nanoscience, and quantum materials. Candidates should hold a Master’s degree in physics, materials science, nanoscience, or a related field. Experience with UHV systems, optical spectroscopy, scanning probe microscopy, or 2D materials is advantageous but not required.

The position is available starting September 2026 or upon agreement, with a planned duration of four years. The PhD student will be employed and immatriculated at the University of Bern, place of work at Empa, Dübendorf, near Zurich.

We look forward to receiving your complete online application including a letter of motivation, CV, certificates, diplomas and contact details of one reference person. Please submit these exclusively via our job portal. Applications by e-mail and by post will not be considered.