Doctoral fellow - Department of Solid State Sciences

Doctoral fellow – Department of Solid State Sciences

Ghent University is a leading European research university with a strong international profile, employing more than 15,000 staff members. It is actively engaged in education, cutting‑edge research, and societal service.

Position

• Title:
  
  Doctoral Fellow – Area‑selective Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD)
• Department: WE04 – Department of Solid State Sciences
• Start date:
  
  1 August 2026 (earliest)
• Duration: 12 months with possible extension up to 48 months
• Contract type:
  Full‑time, temporary, research staff

Research Context

Atomic layer deposition is a key enabling technology for the semiconductor industry. This PhD will focus on area‑selective ALD by developing passivation strategies using gas‑phase inhibitor molecules and investigating surface cleaning and in‑situ spectroscopy to understand the underlying processes.

Your Tasks

• Conduct experimental research in the CoCooN group facilities and at synchrotron facilities abroad.
• Develop passivation strategies for area‑selective ALD, investigate controlled surface cleaning approaches, and apply in‑situ spectroscopy to unravel the underlying chemical and physical surface processes.
• Perform script‑based data analysis of large experimental datasets.
• Publish research findings in leading international journals and present your work at prominent international conferences.
• Supervise M.Sc. students during their thesis projects.
• Contribute to teaching activities within the Department of Solid State Sciences.

What We’re Looking For

• Master of Science degree in physics, chemistry, engineering physics, chemical engineering, or a related discipline, completed by the date of appointment.
• Strong interest in nanofabrication, nanopatterning, thin‑film deposition, and spectroscopy.
• Proficiency in Python programming for handling and analysing large datasets.
• Strong oral and written communication skills and fluency in English.
• Motivation and commitment to complete a PhD within the 4‑year project duration.

What We Can Offer You

• Cutting‑edge research in materials and surface science in a stimulating and supportive setting, with regular CoCooN group meetings and comprehensive mentoring.
• Full‑time doctoral fellow position with an initial 12‑month period and possible extension up to 48 months.
• Contract starting on 1 August 2026 at the earliest.
• Fellowship amount equals 100 % of the net salary of an AAP member in equal family circumstances; the grant is free of personal income tax.
• Ghent University staff benefits: training and education opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave plus annual fixed bridge days, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers.

Application Procedure

• Prepare a single PDF file containing:
  1) Motivation letter,
  2) Full CV (academic background, research experience, publications),
  3) Copy of diploma (if available).
• Send the application to  with the subject line “Application selective ALD PhD”.
• The position remains open until filled.

Equal Opportunities

Ghent University maintains an equal opportunities and diversity policy; everyone is encouraged to apply for this position.

For more information, contact Prof. Jolien Dendooven: , +32 (0)9/264 43 65.