PhD Position : Quantum transport in van der Waals heterostructures
Semonti Bhattacharyya, Leiden institute of Physics (LION)
We have openings for 1 fully funded PhD positions at Dr. Semonti Bhattacharyya’s
group in Leiden Institute of Physics (LION).
Exfoliation of graphene, followed by other layered materials has ushered in a new era of experimental physics, where designer new hybrid
materials can be created by pick-and-drop van der Waals assembly of 2D materials with fundamentally novel properties. The properties of such heterostructures can also be tuned by introducing a twist angle between two van der Waals materials. Hence, these assemblies are ideal fertile grounds to study mechanisms of proximity effect and interactions of different quantum phases clean interfaces. However, the understanding and harnessing of such proximity effects and interactions are at a nascent stage. The PhD research topic involves (i) experimental detection and (ii) manipulation of new emergent quantum phases in such hybrid heterostructures as a function of twist angle and pressure. Experimental techniques will involve van der Waals stacking, nanofabrication, and low temperature magnetotransport measurements.
Essential Selection Criteria
1. Masters degree in the area of Physics, specialization in condensed matter preferred
2. Previous experience with experimental condensed matter research
3. Experience in one of these - nanofabrication, cleanroom, low-temperature electrical transport
4. Motivation and grit to pursue rigorous experimental research
5. Good communication skills, with the ability and willingness to work in a team
Desirable Selection Criteria
1. Experience with van der Waals stacking, working with a glove box
2. Experience in atomic force microscopy, Raman Spectroscopy and photoluminescence
3. Publications in scientific journals, or at least experience of writing scientific publications
4. Experience in collaborative research
Application: Email your application to
Bhattacharyya@physics.leidenuniv.nl with the title “Application PhD” and
the following documents
• CV (contact of at least one reference, preferably two references)
• 1 page document on how you address the selection criteria
• Please explain in the body of the email why you are interested in this position
• Academic transcripts
Timeline: We start reviewing applications immediately and until the position is filled. The starting date is flexible,
and the PhD program in the Netherlands takes 4 years.
About Us: We are a new group starting from August, 2022 at Quantum Matter & Optics group, Leiden University.
Leiden University is the birthplace of superconductivity and home to Kamerlingh Onnes, Lorentz, Huygens,
Einstein, de Sitter, and others (see e.g. the wall of signatures from Ehrenfest lecturers). For more information, see
www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science and [
www.universiteitleiden.nl].
Further Information: All our PhD students are embedded in the Leiden University Graduate School of Science
www.graduateschools.leidenuniv.nl. Our graduate school offers several PhD training courses at three levels:
professional courses, skills training and personal effectiveness. In addition, advanced courses to deepen scientific
knowledge are offered by the research school.
Leiden University is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications
from members of underrepresented groups.