PostDoc / Research Associate – Atom Probe Tomography and Correlative TEM & APT analysis Full-time NEW

Postdoc / Research Associate – Atom Probe Tomography and Correlative TEM & APT Analysis

The Ernst Ruska-Centre for Microscopy and Spectroscopy with Electrons (ER-C) at Forschungszentrum Jülich is the largest electron microscopy user facility in Europe. At the Ernst Ruska-Centre for Microscopy and Spectroscopy with Electrons – Physics of Nanoscale Systems (ER-C-1) we develop new procedures for understanding material properties on the atomic level with a special focus on ultrahigh resolution electron microscopy techniques.

The ER-C actively participates in numerous national and European research programs, including the RIANA program, which provides research infrastructure access in nanoscience and nanotechnology. We are seeking a motivated junior scientist in the field of Atom Probe Tomography (APT) to pursue and expand the atom probe activities in RIANA. The candidate is primarily supposed to perform the APT research of various materials classes, assist other users with the APT analyses and cross-correlate APT activities with parallel TEM investigations in the framework of RIANA projects.

Your Job

An essential part of the RIANA junior scientist position is 1/3 protected personal research time, which can be flexibly spent on the own research projects. Based on the profile of the Ernst Ruska-Centre, those are expected to be in the field of the correlative TEM and APT analysis, with the active participation in the ongoing TOMO project built around the combined state-of-the-art TEM-APT instrument.

Your role is to act as scientific researcher and technical staff for RIANA – project user access in the e-dream network (2/3 of the time), in particular:

• Perform feasibility assessments of requested/planned experiments
• Collaborate with ER-C users and researchers on the TEM-APT experiment design, optimization of sample preparation and development of measurement workflow
• Perform FIB sample preparation and APT characterization for the projects, provide hands-on experimental support
• Perform or assist with APT data analysis and interpretation
• Disseminate results (publications, conferences, trainings) with user teams and support scientific networking

Conduct your own research independently or in collaborative projects (1/3 of the time) in the field of correlative electron microscopy and atom probe tomography:

• Contribute to the research projects related to the development of new microscopy and atom probe techniques as well as advanced data analysis approaches
• Actively participate in the TOMO project
• Establish and maintain collaborations within and outside the institute
• Contribute to raising the visibility of the ER-C in the international scientific community

Your Profile

• Masters degree with subsequent PhD degree (or equivalent) in physics, materials science or related field
• 2+ years of experimental expertise in dual-beam FIB and atom probe tomography techniques
• Experimental background in transmission electron microscopy would be a benefit
• Excellent written & verbal communication skills in English (at least C1 level according to the CEFR), ideally supported by a certificate confirming the language level
• Strong interpersonal skills
• High level of self-motivation
• Ability to work in multidisciplinary, collaborative environments

Our Benefits for You

We work on highly topical, socially relevant issues and offer you the opportunity to actively shape change! You can expect a wide range of opportunities:

• MEANINGFUL TASKS: The position offers a varied and diverse role in an international environment
• WORK-LIFE BALANCE: Optimal conditions for balancing work and private life, as well as a family-friendly company policy. The option of flexible working (in terms of location) is generally available after consultation and in line with upcoming tasks and (on-site) appointments
• VACATION: You will receive 30 days of vacation plus additional days off (e.g. between Christmas and New Year's)
• FLEXIBILITY: Flexible working time models, including options close to full-time, allow you to tailor your working hours to suit your individual needs
• KNOWLEDGE & FURTHER TRAINING: Your professional development is important to us – we provide targeted, individual support for your professional development
• SUCCESSFUL START: We support you from the very beginning and make your start easier with our Welcome Days and Welcome Guide
• SUPPORT FOR INTERNATIONAL EMPLOYEES: Our International Advisory Service makes it easier for international employees to get started
• CAREER CENTER: Postdocs receive explicit support with regard to your career development opportunities
• FAIR REMUNERATION: Depending on your existing qualifications and the tasks assigned to you, you will be classified in pay grade 13 of the TVöD-Bund (Collective Agreement for the Public Service). The monthly salaries in euros can be found on page 69 of the PDF download
• ADDITIONAL BENEFITS: Benefit from attractive additional services such as a company pension scheme with employer contribution. In addition to your basic salary, you will receive an annual bonus and capital-forming benefits
• FIXED-TERM: The position is initially limited to 2 years

In addition to exciting tasks and a collegial working environment, we offer you much more.

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.

The following links provide further information on diversity and equal opportunities and on specific support options.