Postdoctoral Research Associate in Fabrication and Characterisation of 2D Materials for Sustainable Electronics

About the Role

This Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) position is part of an exciting EPSRC-funded programme, "Enabling Net Zero and the AI Revolution with Ultra-Low Energy 2D Materials and Devices." The project focuses on cutting-edge research into the growth, characterisation, and application of high-performance two-dimensional (2D) materials using metal-organic chemical vapour deposition (MOCVD). The primary aim is to develop energy-efficient 2D materials that can significantly reduce the power consumption of next-generation electronic devices, supporting the UK’s net zero goals and the rapid growth of artificial intelligence.

Key responsibilities include synthesising 2D materials with precise control over layer thickness, composition, and defect density, followed by comprehensive physical and chemical characterisation. There will also be opportunities to integrate these materials into functional devices, such as sensors, and evaluate their electrical, optical, and thermal performance under real-world conditions. The role includes collaboration with leading 2D materials manufacturers, offering potential for interdisciplinary research and travel.

About You

You should have a PhD (or be close to completion) in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, Nanotechnology, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field, with a strong background in the synthesis and characterisation of 2D materials. Practical experience in fabricating 2D materials and a deep understanding of their structure-property relationships are highly desirable. You should also have expertise in advanced characterisation techniques like Raman spectroscopy, AFM, SEM, XPS, and electrical measurements such as Hall effect, four-point probe, and current-voltage (I-V) testing.

A proven track record of high-quality research, demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications is essential. Strong organisational and communication skills, along with the ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, are also required. Given the collaborative nature of this project, a willingness to travel and engage with industrial partners is advantageous.

About the School/Department/Institute/Project

Based at the School of Engineering and Materials Science (SEMS) at Queen Mary University of London, you will join a dynamic, multidisciplinary team with world-class laboratories and extensive collaborative networks, providing an exceptional environment for career development in 2D materials and sustainable electronics.

About Queen Mary

At Queen Mary University of London, we believe that a diversity of ideas helps us achieve the previously unthinkable.

Throughout our history, we’ve fostered social justice and improved lives through academic excellence. And we continue to live and breathe this spirit today, not because it’s simply ‘the right thing to do’ but for what it helps us achieve and the intellectual brilliance it delivers.

We continue to embrace diversity of thought and opinion in everything we do, in the belief that when views collide, disciplines interact, and perspectives intersect, truly original thought takes form.

Benefits

We offer competitive salaries, access to a generous pension scheme, 30 days’ leave per annum (pro-rata for part-time/fixed-term), a season ticket loan scheme and access to a comprehensive range of personal and professional development opportunities. In addition, we offer a range of work life balance and family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements, and campus facilities.

Queen Mary’s commitment to our diverse and inclusive community is embedded in our appointments processes. Reasonable adjustments will be made at each stage of the recruitment process for any candidate with a disability. We are open to considering applications from candidates wishing to work flexibly.