Postdoc (f/m/d) on Ferroelectric Device Development, Characterization, and Integration in the Back-end-of-line of CMOS Neuromorphic Chips

Job Description

In the Institute for Functional Oxides for Energy-Efficient IT at HZB, we work on functional oxide thin films and nanostructures combined with semiconductors for energy-efficient information technology. We focus on material synthesis, detailed structural characterization using advanced methods, and on device properties for neuromorphic computing applications.
As a postdoctoral researcher, you will prepare and characterize HfO₂-based ferroelectric devices (tunnel junctions, field-effect transistors) and will work on their integration in the BEOL of CMOS chips available within an EU project. The objective is the development of artificial neurons and synapses for neuromorphic computing.
You will benefit from a dynamic and state-of-the-art-equipped setting at HZB combined with the outstanding environment of Berlin in terms of universities and research institutes, and collaborations with leading laboratories in Germany and Europe including NamLab and IBM Zürich.

Your Tasks

• You will develop HfO₂-based ferroelectric devices.
• You will conduct the electrical characterization and optimization of electrical characteristics (on/off ratio, on-current, data retention, endurance, etc.).
• You will be responsible for the back-end-of-line integration on CMOS chips.
• You will perform electrical characterization of the devices on CMOS chips.
• You will interact with project partners (circuit design and advanced characterization groups).
• You will supervise master’s and/or doctoral students.
• You will present the results at international conferences and scientific publications.

Your Profile

• Completed doctoral degree in materials science, physics, or electrical engineering
• Knowledge of semiconductor device physics
• Experience in clean room device fabrication
• Extended experience in electrical characterization
• Good command of English
• Ability to work in a team environment

Your Benefits at HZB

• A job at one of the 18 Helmholtz centres
• Work in the research environment of the science metropolis Berlin
• The opportunity to contribute together with researchers from all around the world to the development of renewable energies, energy stores and next-gen technologies for a climate-friendly future
• Career guidance, specific training offers, and networking with peers provided by the Graduate Center and Postdoc Office
• Work-life balance
• Flexible work hours with flexitime
• 39-hour week
• 30 days paid leave
• Mobile working on up to three days/week
• Comprehensive counselling services for family and career
• Health management and company sports programmes
• Financial support for public transport (Jobticket)
• Continuing education opportunities
• A company pension scheme (VBL)
• And a team that looks forward to meeting you!

Fixed term contract for 24 months. The salary is based on the Collective Agreement for the German Public Service (TVöD-Bund).