Job Information
Organisation/Company: Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia
Department: Laboratory of Optical Materials
Research Field: Physics » Material science
Researcher Profile: Recognised Researcher (R2)
Country: Latvia
Application Deadline: 11th of July 2025 – 9:00 (CET)
Type of Contract: 1 year with opportunity to extend
Job Status: Other
Job funded through: Horizon Europe
Reference Number: GA n. 101186499
Who we are
FeLow-D (Low-Dimensional Ferroelectrics for Advanced Electronic and Biomedical Devices) is a Horizon Europe ERA Chair project focused on transforming the ferroelectric research group (FER) at ISSP UL into a globally recognized center of excellence. Under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Andrei Kholkin the project aims to unlock the potential of low-dimensional ferroelectric materials for next-generation technologies in electronics, sensing, energy and biomedical applications.
The project is closely aligned with the EU’s goal of “Deepening the ERA” by strengthening R&I ecosystems, fostering open knowledge sharing, enabling talent circulation and enhancing academic-industry cooperation.
The Laboratory of Optical Materials (OML) at ISSP UL is a research hub specializing in advanced materials for electronics, photonics and optoelectronics. As a core contributor to FeLow-D, the lab supports materials discovery, nanoscale characterization, and optical device integration in the context of low-dimensional ferroelectrics.
The position
We are seeking a scientific engineer or postdoctoral researcher to lead materials-to-device prototyping and promote active collaboration with industrial partners. This position lies at the interface of research and innovation, ideal for researcher experienced in ferroelectric composites, device engineering and industrial translation of functional materials.
Key responsibilities
Support materials integration and device prototyping, especially of low-dimensional ferroelectric structures (e.g., thin films, composites, 2D materials)
Collaborate with theoretical and synthesis teams to bridge design, fabrication, and testing
Engage with industry stakeholders for applied technology validation and feedback
Drive experimental development of demonstrators for sensors, energy harvesters, electrocaloric elements, etc.
Support proposal writing for collaborative R&D with a focus on Technology Readiness Level (TRL) advancement
Lead documentation for IP scouting, technology mapping, and knowledge transfer
Research component (up to 10%)
Participate in collaborative studies focused on enhancing the piezoelectric, dielectric, and electrocaloric performance of hybrid systems
Contribute to publications and dissemination based on functional materials in applied environments
Apply characterization techniques such as XRD, PFM, SEM, DSC, PE-loops, and Raman to validate device integration
Requirements
PhD in Materials Science, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or related fields
Experience with ferroelectric materials, 2D structures, composites, or hybrid device structures
Proven track record in prototyping, device integration, or materials testing
Familiarity with industry-relevant processing techniques (e.g., tape casting, thin film deposition, device packaging)
What would make you shine
Track record of collaboration with engineering teams or industrial labs
Proficiency in microstructural characterization tools (SEM, XRD, XPS, PFM, FTIR, nanoindentation)
Ability to work independently while aligning with strategic innovation goals
Proactive communicator capable of translating scientific language into technical and industrial terms
Familiarity with proposal drafting for Horizon Europe or EIC Pathfinder/Transition calls is highly desirable
Compensation and benefits
Competitive salary package starting EUR 18 per hour
Health insurance
Access to state-of-the-art materials research facilities
International working environment with professional development opportunities
Location
ISSP UL, Kengaraga 8, LV-1063 Riga, Republic of Latvia
How to apply
Your application is preferred in PDF format through our recruitment system and should include:
Cover letter that includes a description of your previous experience as well as your motivation for applying to this position, and latest CV with publication list
Attested certificates and diploma
1 reference
Send by e-mail with subject “FeLow-D recruitment” to eriks.birks@cfi.lu.lv by 11th of July 2025, copy timurs.safiulins@cfi.lu.lv
