Open Positions

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Postdoctoral Fellowship – Materials Physics / Halide Perovskites Photovoltaics

 

The N-REX Group, Department of Physics, University of Bologna, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellowship within the Physics of Matter sector.

The position is fully funded by the HERMES project and is intended for a senior postdoctoral researcher for a 36-month appointment.

Research Context

The successful candidate will contribute to the development and optimization of advanced materials and architectures for photoelectrocatalysis and photovoltaic applications, with a particular focus on halide perovskites-based thin films and devices. The research will be carried out in a highly interdisciplinary and international environment, combining materials synthesis, device fabrication, and functional characterization.

Required Profile

  • PhD in Materials Science, Physics, Engineering, or a closely related field
  • Strong experimental background in perovskite thin-film fabrication
  • Proven experience in solar cell assembly and characterization
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research team
  • Good command of written and spoken English

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with thin-film deposition techniques (e.g. spin coating, evaporation, sputtering)
  • Familiarity with photovoltaic device testing and data analysis
  • Previous postdoctoral experience in a related field

Appointment Details

  • Duration: 36 months
  • Starting date: Estimated September 2026
  • Location: Department of Physics, University of Bologna, Italy

Application & Contact

For further information and application procedures, please contact:

Dr. Raffaello Mazzaro
📧 raffaello.mazzaro@unibo.it

Junior Postdoctoral Fellowship – Materials Synthesis & Characterization (PVD)

The N-REX Group, Department of Physics, University of Bologna, invites applications for a Junior Postdoctoral Fellowship within the Physics of Matter sector.

The position is fully funded by the HERMES project and is intended for an early-career postdoctoral researcher for a 24-month appointment.

Research Context

The selected candidate will work on the synthesis of advanced functional materials by Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) techniques and their structural, chemical, and functional characterization. The research activities will support the development of novel materials and architectures for photoelectrocatalysis, within an interdisciplinary framework combining materials science, physics, and data-driven approaches.

Required Profile

  • PhD in Materials Science, Physics, Engineering, or a closely related discipline
  • Experience with physical/chemical vapour deposition techniques (e.g. sputtering, ALD, Spray pyrolisis)
  • Background in materials characterization (structural, optical, electrical, or surface analysis)
  • Motivation to develop independent research skills within a collaborative environment
  • Good command of written and spoken English

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with thin-film growth optimization and process control
  • Familiarity with vacuum systems and clean-room procedures
  • Interest in photoelectrocatalysis or energy-related materials

Appointment Details

  • Duration: 24 months
  • Starting date: March–April 2027
  • Location: Department of Physics, University of Bologna, Italy

Application & Contact

For further information and application procedures, please contact:

Dr. Raffaello Mazzaro
📧 raffaello.mazzaro@unibo.it

PhD Positions (3) – Thin-Film Deposition & Photoelectrochemical Materials

 

The N-REX Group, Department of Physics, University of Bologna, invites applications for three PhD positions within the Physics of Matter sector.

The PhD projects are fully funded within the HERMES project and will focus on the development, characterization, and understanding of advanced materials for photoelectrocatalysis, combining experimental synthesis, operando analysis, and device-level investigation.

Research Topics

The PhD candidates will work on one or more of the following interconnected research themes:

  • Physical and Chemical Vapour Deposition (PVD/CVD) of functional thin films
  • Photoelectrochemical (PEC) characterization of semiconductor materials and devices
  • Operando and in situ spectroscopy for structure–function correlation during catalytic operation
  • Investigation of materials structure–property–performance relationships in photoelectrocatalytic systems

The projects will be carried out in a strongly interdisciplinary environment, at the interface of physics, chemistry, and materials science, and will involve close collaboration within the HERMES consortium.

Required Background

Applicants should hold (or be close to obtaining) a Master’s degree in one of the following disciplines: Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science / Materials Engineering or closely related fields

Desired Skills and Profile

  • Interest in experimental materials research
  • Basic knowledge of thin-film deposition, spectroscopy, electrochemistry, or surface science (depending on background)
  • Strong motivation to work in a multidisciplinary research environment
  • Good analytical skills and problem-solving attitude
  • Good command of written and spoken English

Previous hands-on experience with vacuum systems, deposition techniques, electrochemical measurements, or spectroscopic methods is considered an asset but is not mandatory.

PhD Program Details

  • Number of positions: 3
  • Funding: Fully funded PhD positions within the HERMES project
  • Duration: According to the University of Bologna PhD regulations
  • Location: Department of Physics, University of Bologna, Italy

Application & Contact

For further information and application procedures, please contact:

Dr. Raffaello Mazzaro
📧 raffaello.mazzaro@unibo.it