Master Thesis - Investigation of potential and polarization changes at nitride-based semiconductor interfaces under laser illumination

Forschungszentrum Jülich’s Ernst Ruska-Centre for Microscopy and Spectroscopy with Electrons (ER-C), specifically the department Physics of Nanoscale Systems (ER-C-1), is a world-class research institute focused on understanding and engineering materials at the atomic scale. Using state-of-the-art electron microscopy and spectroscopy, the institute develops new experimental methods to reveal how nanoscale structures determine magnetic, electronic, catalytic, and soft-matter properties. Its research supports major challenges in energy conversion and storage, advanced materials, nanotechnology, and emerging life-science applications. ER-C-1 also operates as part of a national user facility, giving academic and industrial researchers access to cutting-edge instruments, expert support, and collaborative opportunities in an international environment—making it an outstanding place for Master students to write their Master’s thesis with us.

Your Job

In this Master's thesis, ternary nitride compound semiconductor samples are to be characterized both electrically and structurally using off-axis electron holography, scanning transmission electron microscopy, convergent electron beam diffraction, and geometrical phase analysis. These experiments will be conducted to understand the carrier dynamics in these mateials system with and without laser beam illumination using directed electron detectors.

Your taks in detail:

Preparation of electron-transparent TEM lamellae and specimens
Determination of lamella thicknesses by convergent electron beam diffraction and electron energy loss spectroscopy
Mapping of electrostatic potentials and excited carrier concentrations using off-axis electron holography under laser illumination
Analysis and interpretation of experimental data

Your Profile

You are studying physics, material sciences, engineering, or a related subject at a university and are looking for a topic for a master's thesis.
You are interested in and ideally also have previous knowledge in the fields of electron microscopy, solid state physics, and laser optics.
You can work independently and reponsibly, show commitment, a high level of teamwork, and enjoyment of cooperative collaboration.
Furthermore, you can quickly familiarize yourself with new methods and techniques.
You are fluent in written and spoken English (C1/C2 level according to the CEFR: ), ideally supported by a certificate confirming the language level..

Our Benefits for You

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We support you in your work with:

Meaningful Tasks: Your thesis deals with a future-oriented, socially relevant topic with direct practical relevance in an international environment. You will gain valuable practical experience alongside your studies and actively participate in interdisciplinary projects-
Team & Environment: You will work in an international, committed and collegial team – at one of the largest research institutions in Europe
Responsibility & Support: You organize your tasks independently with guidance from experienced colleagues whenever needed.
Flexibility: Flexible working hours make it easier for you to balance work and study.
Campus experience: Our research campus in the countryside offers ideal conditions for connecting with colleagues and enjoying on-site sports activities. Our campus restaurant provides a wide range of options, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing lunch break with views of the lake.
Perspective: If you have the appropriate qualifications and funding is available, the institute offers the opportunity to do your PhD after completing your master's thesis
Fair remuneration: You will receive appropriate remuneration for your thesis work.

In addition to exciting tasks and a collegial working environment, we offer you much more:

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.

The following links provide further information on diversity and equal opportunities: and on specific support options for women:

Place of Employment: Jülich

Start Date: To the next possible date

Salary: You will receive appropriate remuneration for your thesis work.

Application Deadline: The position will be published until it is successfully filled

Index number: 2026M-0606