Assistant Professor Position - Expert in PVD/ALD coating Processes

Civil, Computer Science and Aeronautical Technologies Engineering

Organisation/Company: Roma Tre University Department Civil, Computer Science and Aeronautical Technologies Engineering

Research Field: Engineering » Materials engineering, Engineering » Mechanical engineering, Physics » Surface physics, Physics » Condensed matter properties

Researcher Profile: Established Researcher (R3)

Positions: Research Support Positions

Country: Italy

Application Deadline: 15 Mar 2025 - 23:59 (Europe/Rome)

Type of Contract: Temporary

Job Status: Full-time

Hours Per Week: 40

Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme

Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? Yes

Offer Description

We are seeking an Assistant Professor with expertise in Vacuum technologies for thin film synthesis, including Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD), Chemical Vapor Deposition and Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD), to join our cutting-edge research team. The successful candidate will work with integrated ALD-PVD systems to study the effect of multi-layered hybrid coatings on 3D-printed nano- and micro-structures. This position is part of the FIS2023 SuNRISE project, which aims to improve the mechanical reliability of 3D-printed architectures through fine-tuned coatings, geometry optimization, and stress-level control.

The primary focus will be on designing, executing, and optimizing deposition processes, particularly for materials such as Alumina (Al₂O₃) and Zinc Oxide (ZnO). The role involves both experimental and analytical approaches to investigate deposition mechanisms, interface stability, and mechanical performance of coatings on complex architectures.

Where to apply

E-mail: marco.sebastiani@uniroma3.it

Requirements

Research Field: Engineering » Materials engineering, Physics » Surface physics, Engineering

Education Level: PhD or equivalent

Skills/Qualifications:

• Demonstrated expertise in operating systems like ALD, PVD or CVD, including vacuum system setup and customization, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Proven experience in deposition of e.g. Al₂O₃ and ZnO using standard ALD precursors (e.g., TMA for Alumina and DEZ for ZnO).
• Deep knowledge of precursor handling, flow optimization, and temperature calibration for high-precision depositions.
• Proficiency in in-situ process monitoring tools, including quartz crystal microbalance (QCM), mass flow controllers, and plasma diagnostics.
• Experience with substrate preparation techniques (cleaning, etching, and pre-treatment) to ensure coating uniformity and adhesion.
• Hands-on experience in process control software and programming tools for deposition automation.
• Strong knowledge of vacuum technology principles, including pumps, valves, and leak detection methods.
• Ability to characterize thin films using techniques such as XRD, SEM, TEM, AFM, and ellipsometry.

Specific Requirements:

• Knowledge of plasma-enhanced hybrid ALD/PVD systems.
• Experience with reactive deposition processes and oxide formation kinetics.
• Previous research in multilayer or graded coatings for enhanced mechanical performance.
• Proven ability to work within multi-disciplinary teams and lead collaborative projects.

Languages: ENGLISH Level Excellent

Years of Research Experience: 4 - 10

This position offers a full-time appointment, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and collaboration opportunities in an interdisciplinary environment. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The initial appointment is for three years, with the possibility of renewal for an additional two years.

The Materials Science and Technology (STM) group at Roma Tre University focuses on the development, characterization, and optimization of advanced materials and coatings for structural, functional, and energy applications. Our research spans surface engineering, additive manufacturing, corrosion protection, and nanostructured materials, integrating experimental techniques with computational modeling to improve material performance.

Selection process

Interested applicants should contact Prof. Marco Sebastiani (marco.sebastiani@uniroma3.it) with the subject RTD-A PVD-ALD, including (i) a resume with a publication list, (ii) contact information for at least 3 references, and (iii) not more than 3 representative publications.