Imagine devices that learn and adapt, mimicking the brain – this is the promise of neuromorphic hardware, with applications in robotics, healthcare, and autonomous systems. Ferroelectric hafnia, with its non-volatility, low switching energy, and CMOS-compatibility paves the way for scalable and efficient neuromorphic devices.

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. It is renowned for its excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. The Departement of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering is dedicated to world-class research and education in electrical engineering and electronic information processing, including biomedical engineering and brain research. Within the D-ITET, the Integrated Systems Laboratory (IIS) focuses on microelectronics, optoelectronics and nanotechnologies. The proposed project will bring together research and innovation partners from both the EU and the Republic of Korea through the EU-Republic of Korea Digital Partnership. 

A 100% fixed-term position of 4 years at the heart of Zurich, Switzerland. As a researcher, you will discover nanofabrication processes for the integration of functional ferroelectric oxides into neuromorphic circuits. As a PhD candidate, you will lead a research project and will be responsible for designing and documenting the experimental work. You will manage the data and the program codes generated by you and the students you will supervise. You will report through project and group meetings, conference proceedings and presentations, project deliverables and publications.

Starting date: End 2024 

MSc degree in Physics or Materials Sciences

Experience in clean room fabrication (min. 6 months)

Proficient in English and in programming (Python, Matlab)

With the social and leadership competencies, ETH Zurich has developed a common understanding for a shared work culture. Kindly try to incorporate these six competencies into your recruitment.

You will receive further clean room training and knowledge transfer at the Binnig and Rohrer Nanotechnology Center on thin film growth, device fabrication and characterization. Prof. Laura Bégon-Lours was awarded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (grant 218438): in her group, you will benefit from a strong collaborative network in Europe. Formerly leading the research on ferroelectric devices for neuromorphic computing at IBM Research Zurich, Dr. Bégon-Lours is strongly connected to industry. The PhD position is funded by the EU-South Korea Chips JU initiative through the project ViTFOX.

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

We look forward to receiving your application with the following documents:

• A personnal statement indicating your current situation and your motivation.
• Your CV (please describe your personal contributions to student projects),
• BS and MS transcripts and diplomas,
• A list of five references. The Referees will be contacted for recommendation letters in the later recruiting process. 

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about D-ITET, Integrated Systems Laboratory can be found on our website.

Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Laura Bégon-Lours: lbegon@ethz.ch (no applications).

For recruitment services the GTC of ETH Zurich apply.

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.