Electron microscopes are essential systems for ultra-high-resolution imaging and analysis of materials in science and industry. For many imaging and analysis techniques however, the intrinsic energy spread of the emitted electrons from a high brightness electron source (typically 0.4 – 1 eV) is too large and would need to be reduced to 10 meV range. Electron monochromators exist but are technically complicated and are thus only implemented in very expensive high-end systems. In this project, you will work on a radically new monochromator concept to reduce electron energy spread making use of microfabrication technology. You will design and fabricate the monochromator components together with our microfabrication specialists and you will perform the experimental characterizations. Successful device will be implemented in the state-of-the-art electron microscopes and applications towards extremely low voltage SEM and high-resolution energy loss spectroscopy will be investigated. Ultimately, this work should pave the way for a very powerful but still low-cost electron microscopy component that can fundamentally change the field of electron microscopy.

Who are we?

We, the Mohammadi-Gheidari lab, are an experimental group working on electron microscopy instrumentation. Our main aim is to make cost effective and disruptive electron optical components for high resolution electron microscopy applications employing MEMS technology. We work in close collaboration with Thermo Fisher Scientific, a leading manufacturer of electron microscopes. Our lab is embedded in the Imaging Physics Department of Delft University of Technology and closely collaborates with the Hoogenboom lab. Our department features an inspiring, welcoming, and pioneering environment for researchers to push the boundaries of current imaging systems.

We are seeking an outstanding experimental scientist with a strong interest in research and instrumentation of new electron optical components. Research experience in the fields of applied physics, electron optics, electron microscopy, nanoscience or related is highly desired. We are looking for a team-player who can work independently and has a genuine interest in fundamental research.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2443 per month in the first year to € 3122 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Challenge. Change. Impact! 

Afdeling

Research in the department of Imaging Physics is aimed at developing novel instrumentation and methodology in imaging science and sensing technology. Our research products extend existing boundaries in terms of spatial resolution, temporal resolution and information/data throughput. We are pioneers in developing advanced concepts of computational imaging, a marriage between cleverly designed imaging systems and sophisticated post-processing. In everything we do, there is a core of cutting edge physics and engineering of high-tech instruments, of the use of the most advanced computing techniques, and of a very close link to real-life applications. Our work has clear societal impact in the areas of life sciences, healthcare, and industry.