Overview

Position Overview

The open PhD positions will be involved in mostly experimental research of novel materials suitable for interesting surface-related phenomena, namely in heterogeneous catalysis, electrochemistry and sensing. Current research in the Surface Physics group covers a range of multicomponent materials based on reducible oxides and metallic or bimetallic nanostructures and thin films. The applicant’s research will focus mainly on so-called model studies of such well-defined materials with potential extension to more complex structures and environments.

The ideal candidate will have experience with some of the methods listed below (see Group overview), ultrahigh vacuum (UHV), and a strong interest in materials science and/or chemical physics. A candidate will be required to pass a state exam in physics (usually during the 2nd year).

The currently open PhD topics:

1)      Within the prosposed PhD project a candidate will apply a quite unique combination of experimental methods of surface science (mainly XPS, IRRAS, TPD/TPR) to explore mechanistic details of catalytic properties of novel materials, based on nanostructured binary and ternary metal-oxide and oxide-oxide materials. Well-defined samples will be prepared by physical methods (mainly vapor deposition and magnetron sputtering). UHV studies can be complemented by high-pressure measurements in a laboratory microreactor.

2)      The proposed PhD project involves advanced experiments towards determining relationships between atomically resolved structure and electrocatalytic properties of complex metal-oxide surfaces. Atomically defined model catalyst samples will be prepared and characterized using surface science methods (XPS, LEED, STM, TPD), and their activity, selectivity and stability evaluated using electroanalytical and electrochemical methods (DEMS).

3)      The subject of the proposed PhD studies is investigation of the epitaxial metal-oxide model systems with the potential use in modern technological areas such as heterogeneous catalysis, gas sensors and also as catalysts for fuel cells. The surface structure and morphology, electronic and chemical properties will be studied by surface science techniques (XPS, RHEED, TPD, SEM). The chemical reactivity of the layers will also be tested in a sensor station under real conditions.

4)      The subject of the PhD Thesis will be studying polarons in real space by noncontact atomic force microscopy (nc-AFM), focusing on their thermally-, field- and light-induced motion. Further, the growth of polaronic materials in desired composition and morphology will be pursued.

 

Anticipated commencement:       October 2026

Number of positions:                      2-3

What We Offer:

·          A fully-funded PhD position

·          Access to experimental on-site facilities for material synthesis and characterization.

·          Opportunities to participate in experiments abroad

·          Opportunities to publish impactful research in high-ranking journals and participate in international conferences.

 

What We Require:

·          A strong background in surface science, materials physics, chemical physics or a related field.

·          A Master’s (or an equivalent) degree in one of the aforementioned or related disciplines.

·          Hands-on experience with vacuum equipment

·          Proficient written and oral communication skills in English.

·          The ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Application Must Include (all in a single PDF file):

·          A detailed professional CV.

·          A publication list (if any).

·          A cover letter detailing research interests, motivation, relevant expertise, and any other relevant information.

·          Names and contact information of two established researchers who can (later in the admission process) provide letters of recommendation. Ideally, one of them should be an applicant’s theses supervisor.

·          Experiences beyond basic academic requirements, personal strengths and abilities.

 

Submit your applications to: viktor.johanek@mff.cuni.cz (Viktor Johánek)

 

Group Overview

The Surface Physics Group at the Department of Surface and Plasma Physics (KFPP) of the Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, Charles University Prague (Czech Republic), focuses on the investigation of physical processes occurring at solid surfaces. The main research interests include the structure and dynamics of atomic and molecular layers, particle–surface interactions, and relationships between the electronic structure of surfaces or nanostructures and their physical structure, stability, and reactivity.

The group employs and, to some extent, develops advanced experimental techniques for the characterization of surfaces, thin films, and nanostructures, such as scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), electron diffraction methods (LEED, RHEED), optical vibrational spectroscopies (IRRAS, DRIFTS), and temperature-programmed techniques (TPD, TPR), often in combination with theoretical modeling. Samples are typically prepared using physical methods such as ion sputtering, thermal evaporation, and magnetron sputtering.

The group collaborates with several international research institutions and regularly conducts experiments at synchrotron facilities. For PhD students, it offers the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge surface physics research, access to advanced experimental methods, and participation in international conferences and research stays. Studying with the group provides a solid foundation for a future career in materials science or industrial research.

More information on the group’s official website: https://physics.mff.cuni.cz/kfpp/povrchy/