Description of the thesis topic

The main objective of this thesis is to establish a way to control the electric polarization using oxygen vacancies as charged point defects within the crystalline lattice of ferroelectrics. Due to their 2+ or 1+ charge state, oxygen vacancies generate discrete electronic levels in the band gap acting as dopants able to modify the polarization of the material, and consequently the internal electric field. Here, we plan to establish a generic correlation between the local crystal structure (atomic order, stoichiometry) and the oxygen vacancy content, through both local (hv-AFM++) and macroscopic (photovoltaic) measurements. We are looking for a highly motivated and “qualified” student in materials science.

Work Context

The candidate (M/F) will join the IPCMS in Strasbourg, located on the Cronenbourg campus. The team is currently composed of 3 permanent staff, 3 doctoral students and 1 post-doc. The thesis project includes collaboration with a 2nd team from the institute, in particular for sample preparation by pulsed laser ablation and structural characterization by X-rays. Macroscopic photovoltaic measurements will be carried out on campus in the ICube laboratory.

The position is located in a sector under the protection of scientific and technical potential (PPST), and therefore requires, in accordance with the regulations, that your arrival is authorized by the competent authority of the MESR.

Constraints and risks

Using intense laser light