Title of the Project: Hybrid organic/inorganic memory elements for integration of electronic and photonic circuitry

Project leader: Professor Jarosław Grobelny Poland

Deadline for application: September 30, 2011

Starting date: October 15, – November 1, 2011

OBJECTIVES OF THE PROJECT

The objectives of the project "Hybrid organic/inorganic memory elements for integration of electronic and photonic circuitry" (HYMEC) are to resolve fundamental issues of materials science and to realize new hybrid inorganic/organic devices with functionality far beyond current state-of-the-art. Specifically, we will perform research towards understanding and controlling all relevant properties of systems comprising inorganic metal nanoparticles embedded in matrices of conjugated organic materials (organic semiconductors), and we will demonstrate the function of such material hybrids as non-volatile memory elements that can be addressed electrically and optically, which thus represent potential interconnects of future hybrid electronic and photonic circuitry. Moreover, we target implementing cost-efficient production routes, such as printing, as well as exploring the ultimate miniaturization of such memory elements by novel sublimation- and imprinting-based nanostructuring processes.

Electronic, optical, dielectric, structural, and morphological properties of our systems will be determined using state-of-the-art experimental techniques and modelling to establish a reliable specific knowledge base, which we will exploit for device fabrication and integration. Through our cooperative efforts, we expect to make use of new knowledge for the realization of reliable non-volatile memory elements (NV-ME) employing resistance switching, with a substantial extension of existing NV-ME functionality, i.e., optical addressing of devices in addition to purely electric addressing.

Of particular interest to the University of Lodz team is the synthesis and application-oriented surface functionalization of metallic nanoparticles (NP), with controlled size and narrow size distribution. Advanced metrology techniques at the nanoscale (comparison studies using scanning probe microscopy - AFM/STM, dynamic light scattering - DLS and high resolution electron microscopy – HRSEM/HRTEM) are involved to characterize the nanoparticles (geometry, size and size distribution, interparticle interactions). The surface of nanoparticles is functionalized, utilizing the team’s experience in surface modification.

OUR EXPECTATIONS

This ambitious work programme within an international network is recommended for candidates interested both by fundamental and applied science, and aiming at developing a future carrier connected with industrial developments. The fellows should possess a consistent background in chemistry. Abilities in material science especially in nanomaterials and/or polymer science will be also highly appreciated.

The candidates must hold a Ph. D. degree in Chemistry or Materials Science. 3 months experience of foreign traineeships will be additional advantage. They should be good team players and have ability and willing to taking initiative. Good English speaking and writing is also required.

Starting date: October 15, – November 1, 2011

Candidates wishing to apply are requested to send the following documents (in English) to Professor Jarosław Grobelny ( Adres poczty elektronicznej jest chroniony przed robotami spamującymi. W przeglądarce musi być włączona obsługa JavaScript, żeby go zobaczyć. ) before September 30, 2011:

* An application of a maximum of two A4 pages containing the candidate specific qualifications for the position. The application should highlight the candidate’s scientific achievements, the detailed description of their research experience, the description of foreign traineeships;

* Curriculum Vitae including the list of publications and presentations in conferences

* A copy of the most representative research publications (maximum 3);

* Names of two potential referees (with full contact information)

Positive recommendations from the referees are required to qualify to the further steps of hiring procedure. Qualified candidates will be appointed at the end of September 2011 for a personal meeting in Lodz (Polish candidates) with the Recruitment Committee or in the form of teleconference by Internet. The meeting will be held in English.