ESRF - PhD at AREA, Advanced Electron Microscopy of Functional Materials (TEM & In-Operando Studies)

At a glance

Job title: PhD at AREA, Advanced Electron Microscopy of Functional Materials (TEM & In-Operando Studies)
Ref.: NS26-AREA01
Contract type: Time-limited contract
Working time: Full-time job
Salary range: 37.5K euros
Expected deadline of applications: 31/03/2026
Publication start on Front Office : Site internet: 22/01/2026
Contract duration: 36 months

Context & Job description

Thesis subject: Advanced Electron Microscopy of Functional Materials (TEM & In-Operando Studies)

Complex functional materials—such as oxides, catalysts and energy-conversion systems—display unique physical and chemical properties including superconductivity, magnetism, ferroelectricity, catalytic reactivity and electrochemical behaviour. Representative oxide systems include transition-metal oxides (e.g. perovskite and spinel oxides), functional oxides for energy applications (such as materials for batteries and solid-oxide fuel cells), and oxide-based catalysts and electrocatalysts. These materials are relevant for applications in energy storage and conversion, hydrogen technologies, nanoelectronics, sensing, and sustainable catalysis. Understanding how their atomic-scale structure evolves under real operating conditions (temperature, electric fields, reactive environments, liquids, etc.) is key for the design of next-generation devices for energy, nanoelectronics, sustainable technologies and quantum applications.

This PhD project aims at investigating the structure–function relationships of advanced materials by means of state-of-the-art Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) combined with spectroscopy, in-situ/operando environments and correlative approaches with synchrotron-based techniques. Particular attention will be paid to the role of defects, interfaces, strain mechanisms and environmental stimuli on physical and chemical functionalities.

The work will involve:

atomic-scale imaging and spectroscopy of complex oxides and nanostructured materials
application of in-situ and operando TEM methodologies under different stimuli, such as electrical/thermal biasing and liquid/gas environments
correlative analysis combining TEM, synchrotron techniques and multimodal characterization
collaboration with synthesis, nanofabrication spectroscopy groups within the Area Science Park Campus

Further information may be obtained from: Dr. Regina Ciancio (tel.: +39 040 3755165, email: regina.ciancio@areasciencepark.it)

Expected profile

Previous experience with electron microscopy or spectroscopy is beneficial but not mandatory. Good communication skills and enthusiasm for experimental work in an international environment are expected. Experience in programming, data analysis or simulations will be positively considered.
Degree allowing enrolment for a PhD (such as MSc, Master 2 de Recherche, Laurea or equivalent) in chemistry, materials science, physics or a closely related science. However minimum degree level may vary between universities. The candidate must have obtained and provide proof of a diploma at the time of application.
Proficiency in English (A proof of upper-intermediate B2 level must be included in the application. Applicants originating from native-English-speaking countries can apply without the need for proof of level. An official degree conducted in English will be also accepted as a proof). If the applicant is unable to provide proof, an English test (free of charge) will be requested.
Compliance with the Marie Sklodowska-Curie mobility rule: candidates may not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the host institute’s country for more than twelve months in the three years immediately before the application deadline (31/03/2026).
All researchers recruited must be doctoral candidates, i.e. not already working towards or in possession of a doctoral degree at the date of the recruitment.
Candidates must satisfy the conditions for enrolment in a doctoral programme.

Working conditions

The successful candidate will work in a modern technological environment, interacting with experts in electron microscopy, materials growth, and large-scale research infrastructures. The project is highly interdisciplinary, with impact across materials science, physics, chemistry, catalysis, and energy applications. Access to external advanced microscopy facilities as well as to the other laboratories and infrastructures involved in the NEXTSTEP consortium will be encouraged and supported.

Do you recognize yourself in this description? Apply now for your next professional adventure!

How we work
• We like to work with passion
• We like to build trust through innovative solutions
• We are reliable, courageous and sustainable
• Dedicating ourselves to people to motivate and inspire them is the basis of our workday

What we offer
• Positive working environment, stimulating, open to confrontation and aimed at innovation and constant improvement
• You will be part of a young and dynamic team
• You will get to know our business and be an active part of it
• We will be by your side in your professional training
• If you know how to deserve it, you will have opportunities for “infinite” growth
• Welfare plan
• Honesty and transparency.

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Company description

More details about the Nextstep Doctoral Programme on www.nextstep-programme.eu

NEXTSTEP will train 36 enthusiastic researchers to exploit the unique and transversal capabilities of analytical research infrastructures in tackling the challenges associated with sustainable development and industrial competitiveness in the areas of “Health”, “Digital, Industry & Space”, “Climate, Energy and Mobility” and “Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment”, which are at the heart of Horizon Europe. Host laboratories: ESRF and ILL (France), FZJ (Germany), AREA (Italy), NTNU (Norway).