PostDoc / Research Associate - Atom Probe Tomography and Correlative TEM & APT analysis

Role: PostDoc / Research Associate - Atom Probe Tomography and Correlative TEM & APT analysis
Organization: Forschungszentrum Jülich (Ernst Ruska-Centre for Microscopy and Spectroscopy with Electrons)
Location: Jülich, Germany

Job Overview:
The Ernst Ruska-Centre for Microscopy and Spectroscopy with Electrons (ER-C) at Forschungszentrum Jülich is the largest electron microscopy user facility in Europe. The ER-C-1 division develops new procedures for understanding material properties on the atomic level with a special focus on ultrahigh resolution electron microscopy techniques. The ER-C actively participates in numerous national and European research programs, including the RIANA program, which provides research infrastructure access in nanoscience and nanotechnology. The position seeks a motivated junior scientist in the field of Atom Probe Tomography (APT) to pursue and expand atom probe activities in RIANA. The candidate will primarily perform APT research of various materials classes, assist other users with APT analyses, and cross-correlate APT activities with parallel TEM investigations within RIANA projects.

Responsibilities:
The role is split between project user access support (2/3 of time) and personal research (1/3 of time).

RIANA Project Support (2/3 of time):
- Perform feasibility assessments of requested/planned experiments.
- Collaborate with ER-C users and researchers on TEM-APT experiment design, optimization of sample preparation, and development of measurement workflows.
- Perform FIB sample preparation and APT characterization for projects, providing hands-on experimental support.
- Perform or assist with APT data analysis and interpretation.
- Disseminate results (publications, conferences, trainings) with user teams and support scientific networking.

Personal Research (1/3 of time):
- Conduct independent or collaborative research in the field of correlative electron microscopy and atom probe tomography.
- Contribute to research projects related to the development of new microscopy and atom probe techniques as well as advanced data analysis approaches.
- Actively participate in the TOMO project built around the combined state-of-the-art TEM-APT instrument.
- Establish and maintain collaborations within and outside the institute.
- Contribute to raising the visibility of the ER-C in the international scientific community.

Requirements and Qualifications:
- Master’s degree with subsequent PhD degree (or equivalent) in physics, materials science, or a related field.
- 2+ years of experimental expertise in dual-beam FIB and atom probe tomography techniques.
- Experimental background in transmission electron microscopy (beneficial).
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English (at least C1 level according to the CEFR), ideally supported by a certificate confirming the language level.
- Strong interpersonal skills.
- High level of self-motivation.
- Ability to work in multidisciplinary, collaborative environments.

What They Offer:
- Meaningful Tasks: A varied and diverse role in an international environment working on highly topical, socially relevant issues.
- Work-Life Balance: Optimal conditions for balancing work and private life, including a family-friendly company policy and options for flexible working (location) after consultation.
- Vacation: 30 days of vacation plus additional days off (e.g., between Christmas and New Year's).
- Flexibility: Flexible working time models, including options close to full-time, allowing you to tailor working hours to individual needs.
- Knowledge & Further Training: Targeted, individual support for professional development.
- Successful Start: Support via Welcome Days and Welcome Guide.
- Support for International Employees: Assistance from the International Advisory Service.
- Career Center: Explicit support for postdocs regarding career development opportunities.
- Fair Remuneration: Classification in pay grade 13 of the TVöD-Bund (Collective Agreement for the Public Service), depending on qualifications and tasks.
- Additional Benefits: Company pension scheme with employer contribution, annual bonus, and capital-forming benefits.
- Contract Details: Initially limited to 2 years; 39 hours per week.
- Diversity and Inclusion: Commitment to a diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities.