Master student (m/f/d)

The Leibniz Institute for Crystal Growth (IKZ) is a leading research institution in the field of science & technology as well as service & transfer of crystalline materials. Our goal is to enable solutions for pressing societal challenges (e.g. communication, artificial intelligence, climate protection, health, etc.) through modern electronic & photonic technologies. The work covers the entire spectrum from basic and applied research to pre-industrial development and is carried out in cooperation with national and international partners from universities, academies and industry. The institute is part of the Forschungsverbund Berlin (https://www.fv-berlin.de/) and a member of the Leibniz Association (https://www.leibniz-gemeinschaft.de).

The Leibniz-Institut für Kritallzüchtung currently looking for a

Master student (m/f/d)

for the master thesis topic:

 „Transmission Electron Microscopy of Memristor Materials “

Memristive devices play crucial roles in synaptic plasticity, particularly in the development of neuromorphic computing systems that aim to replicate the functionality of biological synapses. High accuracy neuromorphic computing with standardized signals requires the introduction of new mechanisms and materials. A systematic approach to explore memristor materials is crucial to gain comprehensive understanding of the underlying device mechanism, as well as for engineering optimized devices. Recently patented results at IKZ show that off-stoichiometric SrTiO3 grown with a Sr deficiency of up to 20% provide insights of the beneficial role of Nanopolar domain for memristive devices.

The aim of the Master’s thesis will be to investigate disorder engineering in off-stoichiometric perovskites, particularly CaTiO₃, BaTiO_3, SrTiO₃, and their solid solutions with ex situ and in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for designing critical properties of memristive devices. The concrete work will involve mechanical polishing and FIB sample preparation, ex situ and in situ TEM experiments with advanced analytical TEM techniques, such as HAADF, iDPC, EELS and 4D-STEM, analysis and interpretation of the experimental results, and some theoretical calculations.

The candidate should possess a bachelor's degree or its equivalent in physics, physical chemistry, materials science, or a related discipline. Preference will be given to candidates with a background in TEM and in Python programming.

The Leibniz-Institut für Kristallzüchtung actively supports a healthy work-life balance and is an equal opportunities employer. Female candidates are encouraged to apply and will be given preference if suitably qualified. Among equally qualified candidates, preference will be given to candidates with disabilities.

If you want to have more information about the project, please contact us:

Dr. Dan Zhou (dan.zhou@ikz-berlin.de)

Dr. Martin Albrecht (martin.albrecht@ikz-berlin.de)

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