Do you enjoy advancing science and technology by applying experimental tools and working in a multidisciplinary environment? Is developing thin-film materials and their integration into devices of your interest? Our group works on functional materials and together with academic and private partners we develop methodologies for their integration into devices for advancing sensing technologies. We use state-of-the-art facilities and labs for the development, characterization, and testing of thin-film materials. In this project, we aim to integrate microporous metal-organic framework (MOF) thin films onto substrates via a vapor-based deposition method performed in vacuum. The integrated thin-films will be accessed and used for sensing and other applications.

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher with hands-on experience with vacuum deposition equipment and in-depth knowledge of thin film materials to perform the fabrication of microporous thin films followed by their characterization. Your research will be performed in the Functional Materials group.

What are you going to do

You are expected to

• work on building the vacuum based tools for the deposition of thin-film materials;
• plan and perform thin-film deposition experiments and data analysis independently;
• critically analyze and interpret results;
• co-supervise junior scientists (MSc/BSc students);
• take a leading role in writing manuscripts;
• present data at local, national and international scientific meetings;
• communicate with national and international collaborators.

• a PhD degree in Applied Physics, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related disciplines;
• knowledge in thin film deposition methods (preferably atomic layer deposition; ALD);
• significant experience in working with and maintaining vacuum deposition tools such as ALD;
• knowledge of microporous thin films (especially metal organic frameworks);
• significant experience with various thin films characterization tools;
• experience or interest in learning about thin films integration into devices;
• excellent project- and time management skills;
• excellent communication skills, for presenting data at conferences and workshops and to potential partners;
• fluency in English, both written and spoken.

We offer you a temporary employment contract for 38 hours a week, for 12 months starting on September 1, 2022 with a possibility of an extension for six months.
Based on a full-time contract (38 hours per week) the gross monthly salary will range from € 2,846 to € 4,490 (scale 10), depending on relevant experience before the beginning of the employment contract. This is exclusive 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus. A favourable tax agreement, the '30% ruling', may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities is applicable.

The UvA offers excellent possibilities for further professional development and education.

What else do we offer

• a function in which initiative is strongly valued;
• an enthusiastic team that welcomes new members;
• an inspiring academic and international environment in the heart of Amsterdam.

Faculty of Science

The Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS) is one of eight institutes of the University of Amsterdam (UvA) Faculty of Science. HIMS performs internationally recognized chemistry and molecular research, curiosity driven as well as application driven. This is done in close cooperation with the chemical, flavour & food, medical and high-tech industries. Research is organized into four themes: Analytical Chemistry, Computational Chemistry, Synthesis & Catalysis and Molecular Photonics.

The Synthesis & Catalysis encompasses organic synthesis and all aspects of catalysis, including homogeneous catalysis, heterogeneous catalysis, biocatalysis, organocatalysis, and catalysis engineering. Projects range from fundamental to applied research, with strong valorization aspects. The Functional Materials Group focuses on developing fundamental knowledge and materials that enable low-energy routes for the synthesis of chemicals, efficient molecular separations and selective chemical sensing.

To work at the University of Amsterdam is to work in a discerning, independent, creative, innovative and international climate characterized by an open atmosphere and a genuine engagement with the city of Amsterdam and society. Here you can read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.