Postdoctoral Research Position in 2D Materials: Impact of Grain Boundaries on 2D Material-based Device Performance

Contract: Full Time/Fixed Term

Position overview
Tyndall National Institute, Ireland’s leading Research and Technology Organisation (RTO), specialises in electronics and photonics. Collaborating with global industry and academia, Tyndall transforms cutting-edge research into real-world solutions across sectors such as communications, energy, health, agri-tech, and the environment.

We are seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join the 2D Materials And Devices Engineering (2D-MADE) team within the Nanoelectronics Materials and Devices (NMD) Group. This dynamic team includes PhD students, postdocs, and research professionals working on advanced 2D materials research.

The project focuses on understanding the role of grain boundaries (GBs) in large-area grown transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), such as MoS2 and WSe2, and their impact on the performance of ultra-scaled field effect transistors. The researcher will investigate the correlation between defect structures and device behaviour, using fabrication and electrical characterisation techniques alongside first-principles simulations in collaboration with theoretical experts in the 2D-MADE group.
In partnership with Intel, this work will support the development of next-generation, low-power, high-performance 2D materials-based devices. The role involves designing and fabricating test structures, analysing GB effects, and exploring optimisation strategies for TMD growth, contributing directly to advancing semiconductor manufacturing.

Key responsibilities

Work with the supervisor and other team members in delivering the projects scientific requirements
Conduct literature reviews on the possible GB structures in TMD materials and benchmark new data against existing knowledge
Fabricate specific test structures and devices from TMD films using Tyndall’s state-of-the-art fabrication facilities
Perform detailed structural and electrical characterisation of the TMD films and the fabricated TMD-based devices
Partner effectively with the project’s industrial and academic partners to advance the project
Rigorously disseminate research findings through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations
Utilise an independent approach to carry the project work forward
Proactively identify opportunities for external funding sources, prepare grant proposals and the assessment of research findings for potential commercial exploitation in conjunction with the supervisor
Help co-supervising and providing day-to-day advice, supporting, mentoring, and assisting the research graduates, students and other junior members of the group
Engage in appropriate training and development opportunities to enhance transferable skills, career and reputation
Regularly participate in public engagement and outreach activities
Ensure all activities comply with the Tyndall Quality Management system
Ensure all activities comply with the required Health and Safety standards
Carry out any additional duties as may reasonably be required within the general scope and level of the post

Essential criteria

PhD degree in physics, materials science, chemistry, or a related field, with a keen interest in nanoelectronics and 2D materials
Proven hands-on experience in fabricating 2D-TMD based devices through electron beam lithography (EBL)
Flexible in working conditions, particularly with respect to the equipment’s busy schedules
A strong publication record in the field of 2D materials
Possess excellent scientific writing and communication skills for effectively disseminating research findings through publications and presentations
Demonstrated ability to work impartially and as part of a team

Desirable criteria

Evidence of capability in idea generation and the delivery – both technically and operationally – of successful research projects
Proven knowledge of the physics of carrier transport through TMDs
Demonstrate an ability to manage self, time, and resources to enable a high level of personal effectiveness

What we offer
At Tyndall we value Ambition, Collaboration, Diversity, Excellence and Integrity. You will be supported throughout to grow your skillset and learn how to adapt in new challenges to develop your career.
As a Research Fellow you will avail of:

Individual Development Plans – Staff work with their managers to create career “roadmaps” that take into account their interests and career aspirations as well as the business needs of their Centre and the Institute
Learning & Development Opportunities – Staff can take advantage of learning and development opportunities, including leadership and management development skills, project management, industry and job specific learning, and including general business, finance, and technology skills
Opportunities for mentoring and day-to-day technical supervision of postgraduate (PhD, Masters) and undergraduate students
Opportunities for Outreach and Public Engagement activities
Support for preparation of competitive research proposals

Tyndall has an Athena Swan Bronze award, reflecting our commitment to ensuring equity of opportunity for all researchers regardless of gender or ethnicity. We are actively improving our internal processes to build on the Athena Swan award and have a vibrant People and Culture team driving initiatives.

Tyndall has an active EDI (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion) group which delivers initiatives to enhance EDI within the Institute.

Appointment may be made on the UCC Postdoctoral Salary Scale €46,306 - €52,863 p.a. Salary placement on appointment will be in accordance with the public sector pay policy.

The duration of the contract is a for a fixed term of 12 months with the possibility to extend upon the availability of funding, satisfactory performance, mutual agreement and a detailed career development plan.

Informal enquiries can be made in confidence to Dr Farzan Gity.
Closing date of application is 1pm, 14th of November 2025.

Application Instructions
Please make sure to attach an up-to-date CV/Resume AND a brief motivation letter outlining how you meet the ‘Essential Criteria’ for this role.

Please note that Garda vetting and/or an international police clearance check may form part of the selection process.

The University, at its discretion, may undertake to make an additional appointment(s) from this competition following the conclusion of the process.

Please note that an appointment to posts advertised will be dependent on University approval, together with the terms of the employment control framework for the higher education sector.

At this time, Tyndall National Institute does not require the assistance of recruitment agencies.

Tyndall National Institute at University College, Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Postdoctoral Research Position in 2D Materials: Impact of Grain Boundaries on 2D Material-based Device Performance

Benefits

Job Description