PhD position – Developing innovative plasmonic materials

Applications are invited for a PhD position in the Air Quality and Particle Technology group (Prof. Dr. J. Wang). The successful candidate will work in the Laboratory of Nano Particles at Empa and also matriculate in ETH Zürich.

Position starting from July 2025 or upon agreement.

The research focuses on developing innovative plasmonic materials. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) are strong photon-induced collective hot-electron coupling effects, which can create intense and sensitive electromagnetic near field. SPR and LSPR have found intriguing successes in biosensing, control switches, signal amplifiers and modulators, and high-performance photocatalysis. The conventional plasmonic materials include noble metals, e.g. gold, which was extensively used in biosensing research in our group. On the other hand, the plasmonic properties are strongly dependent on the materials, the surrounding media, and the geometrical parameters, which makes engineering of the material and nanostructure extremely important to realize highly tunable and designable optical properties.

The student will be involved in tasks such as:

• Designing innovative plasmonic materials with precisely engineered nanostructures;
• Fabricating the plasmonic materials using micro-nanofabrication technologies;
• Investigating the tunable and designable optical properties of the materials;
• Validating the advantages of new materials in applications.

Additionally, our group performs research on nanomaterial engineering, microfluidics and electrochemistry, which provides a wide range of opportunities for the PhD candidate.

We are looking for suitable candidates with a master level degree in material science, chemical engineering, physical chemistry or related fields with excellent grades. Good experimental capability is of high value. Good command of English is required. Please contact Prof. Wang (jing.wang@ifu.baug.ethz.ch) for further information (no applications) and visit our website.

• Your career with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society.
• We are actively committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university.
• You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare and attractive pension benefits.

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.