A PhD student is sought for a Science Foundation Ireland funded project in the area of dielectric charging for MicroElectroMechanical (MEMS) switches which operate in the radio-frequency domain. This position will commence October 1st 2010.
Microelectromechanical structures consist of micrometer scale mechanically moving parts which respond mechanically to an external stimulus. For instance, accelerometers respond to rapid deceleration by sending an electrical signal to open a car air-bag. A limiting problem for all microelectromechanical devices is the phenonema of dielectric charging whereby dielectrics become charged due to process conditions, electrical input or incident radiation. Commercial devices such as accelerometers limit the effect of dielectric charging by minimizing the presence of dielectrics in the structures. However, new technologies such as radio-frequency capacitance switches and varactors require dielectric media to function efficiently for mobile and aerospace applications. The focus of this project is to study the physics of dielectric charging and develop novel microelectromechanical structures based on this understanding.
The successful candidate will enrol in the microelectronics department at University College Cork and will be part of Tyndall s structured PhD program. A key aspect of the PhD program is training, which will entail attendance at postgraduate courses at UCC and travelling to specialist external courses as necessary. It is expected that the student will also work closely with the European Space Agency during this project.
Candidates with a primary degree in Physics, Materials Science or Engineering are invited to apply for this position. Excellent knowledge of solid state physics, demonstratable experimental skills and a desire to apply these talents to understanding the operation of novel microelectronic devices are required. This position offers an excellent opportunity to work in a new field of microelectronic research with applications in mobile and aerospace fields.
Further details can be obtained from Dr. Russell Duane (Russell.duane@tyndall.ie).
To apply for this position, please submit the Tyndall National Institute application form http://www.tyndall.ie/careers/howto.html and an up to date CV to Tyndall HR at careers@tyndall.ie,quoting reference number (Ref. No. RD – 03).
