Doctoral position on the kinetics of ferroelectric domains using in-situ experiments

The Mechanics and Materials Laboratory (Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich) is looking for a motivated and passionate doctoral student to study defect kinetics in ferroelectric crystals using in-situ experimental techniques. The position will be funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation.

Ferroelectrics are multi-functional materials whose electro-mechanical coupling makes them a prime choice for converting electrical to mechanical signals, and vice-versa. This multi-physical coupling makes them attractive for a wide range of applications, ranging from sensor and transducer technology, active vibration damping of structures, down to nanoelectronic circuits. At the meso-scale – spanning nanometers to micrometers – this electro-mechanical coupling occurs due to the transient evolution of surface defects called domain walls. However, very little is known about the evolution of these defects especially at short time scales. The goal of this project is to develop in-situ electro-mechanical experiments coupled with high-speed optical microscopy, to observe, measure and model the kinetics of domain walls.

This project will be supervised by Dr. Vignesh Kannan and Prof. Dr. Dennis Kochmann.

Further details about the project can be found here.

The focus of this doctoral project is primarily experimental, involving regular interactions with modeling experts within the group. You will design and develop the electro-mechanical experiment, with specific focus on time-resolved high-speed optical microscopy and image correlation. You will use this multi-scale in-situ experiment to develop a detailed data set to quantify domain kinetics in single-crystal ferroelectric samples. The latter will involve designing novel experimental configurations, and data (and image) analysis tools. You will also have the unique opportunity to interact with multi-scale modeling experts within our group. Data generated from the experiment will directly be used as input to the models. Broadly, this research will aid in active material/device design at microstructural length scales.

The preferred start date is September 1st, 2023.

• You have a background in mechanical engineering, materials science, or related areas
• A strong background in continuum mechanics and experimental mechanics is necessary
• You are passionate about developing novel experimental tools to understand fundamental material behavior
• Experience with multi-physics measurements, optics, microscopy and/or micro-fabrication techniques is beneficial, but not a requirement
• You prefer working in a multi-disciplinary environment. You will be expected to work independently, but also closely collaborate with experts in modeling and microscopy
• You are comfortable communicating in English and enjoy working in an international environment

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.