Exploration of the driving mechanisms of the topological and electronic phase transition in Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs)
RESEARCH PROGRAMMES
P2: Quantum materials at the nanoscale
P4: Nanomagnetism for Information and Communication Technologies
PhD PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The proposed PhD project focuses on advancing the understanding and manipulation of two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), particularly transition metal ditellurides, to uncover novel physical phenomena and potential applications. TMDs have emerged as a captivating class of materials within the condensed matter community due to their diverse physical properties, which are highly dependent on their elemental composition, stoichiometry, and structural polytypes.
One of the primary objectives of this project is to investigate the growth of TMDs monolayers on decoupling substrates. By utilizing decoupling substrates, which effectively isolate the TMD monolayers from the underlying substrate, we aim to enhance the quality and controllability of TMD growth processes. This aspect will involve experimental synthesis techniques to precisely control the growth conditions and characterize the resulting monolayers using advanced microscopy and spectroscopy techniques.
Furthermore, the project aims to correlate the atomic-scale structure of TMD monolayers with their macroscopic properties. This involves elucidating the crystalline, electronic, and topological structure of TMDs at the atomic level and understanding how these structural features manifest in their macroscopic physical properties.
The project will involve collaborations with leading research institutions and synchrotron facilities, including ALBA and BESSY synchrotron. These collaborations will provide access to state-of-the-art experimental facilities and expertise in synchrotron-based techniques, enhancing the scope and depth of the research investigations. Additionally, a planned secondment to the Group of Martin Švec at the Institute of Physics, Czech Academy of Sciences, will offer further research opportunities in ultra-high vacuum low-temperature scanning probe microscopy and optical spectroscopy.
Overall, this interdisciplinary project bridges the gap between atomic-scale characterization and macroscopic properties in TMD monolayers, with the ultimate goal of unlocking their full potential for future technological applications in areas such as electronics, optoelectronics, and quantum technologies.
APPLICANT’S REQUIREMENTS
- Master’s degree in physics, nanophysics, condensed matter physics or related areas.
- Fundamental knowledge of ultra-high-vacuum technology will be appreciated.
- Scanning tunnelling microscopy or photoelectron spectroscopies experience or fundamental knowledge will be highly appreciated.
- Good interpersonal skills.
- Fluently in English with both oral and written good skills
RESEARCH GROUP DESCRIPTION
The Nanoscale Imaging of 2D Materials group has an expensive experience in the study and manipulation at atomic scale of 2D materials based on a surface science approach, involving well-defined surfaces under ultra-high vacuum (UHV) conditions and low temperature scanning tunnelling microscopy and spectroscopy (LT-STM/STS). Additionally, we have established a strong collaboration with the recently formed Spin-ARPES laboratory group and with some of the ‘state-of-the-art’ synchrotron beamlines for the study of electronic and magnetic properties.
RESEARCH SUPERVISOR
Dr. Manuela Garnica
Research Group website:
https://nanociencia.imdea.org/nanoscale-imaging-of-2d-materials/group-home