Research background

Artificial neural networks are often seen as one of the next paradigm shifts in computing, as an alternative to the Von Neumann architecture in computer is urgently needed to realize low-energy high-efficiency computing. Ideal materials could mimic brain functionality by directly forming tunable conductive paths in artificial neural networks under electrical spike stimulation. Such materials would make computing more efficient by allowing the co-location of reasoning and memory in devices. Many research groups are contributing to this challenge with outstanding contributions following different approaches, using inorganic materials or organic electronics. Despite recent successes, the ability to tailor the chemical, electrical, and mechanical properties of organic materials locally, at the molecular level, could allow for the development of ideal devices with long-term stability, low-energy switching, and low-conductance operation.

Project description

We aim at engineering a polymeric communication platform between electrical nodes. Inspired by the structure of brain neural network, we grow 3D dendritic polymer network actuated by light and electricity. These materials can interact by reconfiguring their structure and tuning their conductance in response to changes in external stimuli (electricity and light). We produce the network based on liquid crystalline polymers. The advantage of this approach is that highly ordered molecular structures in liquid crystalline polymers can be directly translated to macromolecular properties. The fundamental questions of what molecular features govern the structure-dynamics-function relationship of soft matter will be investigated.

This project brings together two research groups (Laboratories of Macromolecular and Organic Chemistry, and Human Interactive Materials) at the Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry with complementary skills and requires expertise in novel synthesis, nanostructures engineering, material design and device engineering.

We are looking for a candidate with a demonstrated background in organic synthesis or polymer chemistry. Given the multidisciplinary character of the proposed research, the ideal candidate has experience in soft matters, responsive materials, and experience in devices characterization and fabrication. Furthermore, the candidate can work independently within a dynamic team and a multidisciplinary research environment.

The postdoc will be supervised by dr. Ghislaine Vantomme, assistant professor in Supramolecular Chemistry and dr. Danqing Liu, assistant professor in Human Interactive Materials, both part of the Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry and the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems.

We offer a challenging job for one year in a highly motivated team at a dynamic and ambitious university. You will work with innovative analytic equipment, and you will be part of a highly profiled multidisciplinary collaboration where expertise of a variety of disciplines comes together.

The TU/e is located in one of the smartest regions of the world and part of the European technology hotspot 'Brainport Eindhoven', well-known because of many high-tech industries and start-ups. A place to be for talented scientists!

The gross monthly salary in accordance with the Collective Labor Agreement of the Dutch Universities (CAO NU), scale 10, with a year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
Besides, the TU/e offers high-quality training programs on skills related to research and valorization, excellent package of attractive benefits for employees and a modern sports complex. A TU/e Postdoc Association that helps you to build a stronger and broader academic and personal network, and offers tailored support, training and workshops.

A Staff Immigration Team is available for international candidates, as are a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) and a compensation for moving expenses.