Are you eager to advance your scientific career at the cutting-edge of quantum materials and nanotechnology? DTU Physics and DTU NanoLab offer a fully funded PhD position to develop groundbreaking electron-beam lithography (EBL) methods that will redefine what is achievable in quantum device fabrication. You will push lithography resolution limits down to the quantum regime, demonstrating the fabrication of robust artificial quantum superlattices that have never before been realized.
Joining our dynamic, international research community, you will gain unique, high-demand competencies in quantum-focused nanofabrication, advanced materials science, and quantum electronics. With access to DTU Nanolab's state-of-the-art cleanroom facilities, you will establish yourself at the forefront of quantum technology, positioning your career for long-term success and global scientific impact.
Your primary role will be to pioneer and optimize advanced electron-beam lithography techniques to demonstrate reliable fabrication of quantum superlattices at unprecedented spatial resolutions (below 15 nm). You will leverage DTU Nanolab’s best-in-class 100 kV EBL system, applying these techniques directly to well-established two-dimensional (2D) materials such as graphene, α-RuCl3, and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs).
This PhD project is highly focused on methodology, resolution enhancement, and reproducibility. It will serve as a foundation, enabling future studies on novel quantum phenomena in these newly accessible quantum superlattices. Specific research activities will include:
- Developing and optimizing ultra-high-resolution lithographic processes:
You will explore and refine unconventional electron-beam resists (e.g., HSQ, metal fluorides, alkali halides) to reliably achieve robust pitches below 15 nm. - Nanoscale characterization: You will validate your lithographic patterns using advanced microscopy methods such as SEM, AFM, and TEM, ensuring reproducibility, uniformity, and sub-15 nm precision.
- Quantum transport studies (proof-of-concept): You will conduct low-temperature electronic transport measurements to confirm and characterize fundamental quantum behaviors induced by these nanoscale superlattices.
- Collaboration and documentation: You will closely collaborate with international experts from DTU Physics and DTU NanoLab, sharing knowledge and methodologies, and meticulously document your processes to ensure reproducibility and facilitate future research.
Qualifications:
A successful candidate will be able to demonstrate some, or all, of the following skills:
- Proven practical experience with electron-beam lithography or advanced micro/nanofabrication methods.
- Solid understanding and background in condensed matter physics, quantum mechanics, or nanoscale materials science.
- Hands-on laboratory experience with characterization tools (SEM, AFM, TEM) or electronic measurement setups.
- Hands-on laboratory experience with two-dimensional materials such as graphene, α-RuCl3, and TMDs.
- Excellent command of written and spoken English, along with strong communication skills.
- Ability to independently pursue complex tasks while actively contributing to a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment.
- Strong motivation to achieve scientific excellence and to contribute significantly to the field of quantum nanotechnology.
Experience with quantum electronic devices or low-temperature electronic transport measurements is advantageous but not strictly required.
You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree.
Approval and Enrolment
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education.
We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.
Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Assistant Professor Bjarke S. Jessen, bsoje@dtu.dk.
You can read more about DTU Physics and DTU NanoLab at https://physics.dtu.dk/ and www.nanolab.dtu.dk/.
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark. Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU.
Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 6 October 2025 (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:
- A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
- Curriculum vitae
- Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale
You may apply prior to obtaining your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it.
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.
Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.