Job Description

Research Scientist Group Leader - 2D Materials and Devices

International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL)

Contract Duration: 48 months

Expected Starting Date: November/December 2026

Salary Range: 66k – 70k annual gross

Group/Unit: 2D Materials and Devices

Employment Type: Full time

Number of Vacancies: 1

Location: Braga, Portugal

Job Reference: Ref.73.25.414/1

Open Date for Applications: July 2nd, 2026

Close Date for Applications: September 30th, 2026, 23h59m (Lisbon Time)

Profile

The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) is seeking an internationally recognised research leader to head the 2D Materials & Devices Research Group. The successful candidate will develop a world-class research program focused on the realisation of scalable device technologies based on two-dimensional materials, combining wafer-scale material growth, advanced nanofabrication, and device integration.

The research programme is expected to leverage INL's unique research infrastructure, including state-of-the-art MOCVD and CVD facilities, low temperature probe station, comprehensive cleanroom nanofabrication capabilities, advanced materials and device characterisation and integration platforms. Priority research directions include:

• Scalable growth of high-quality 2D materials and heterostructures using CVD, MOCVD and related wafer-scale synthesis approaches.
• Design, fabricate and characterise functional devices based on xtransition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), hBN, graphene and related materials.
• Device concepts for, in order of priority: nanoelectronics, optoelectronics, neuromorphic computing, biosensing, and other emerging technologies enabled by large-area 2D materials targeting energy efficient devices and systems.
• Integration of novel materials into manufacturable device platforms with a clear pathway towards scalable technologies.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to shape the future scientific direction of the group with scientific independence, within the framework of the general research strategy of INL. INL offers the possibility for the new Group Leader to integrate existing staff researchers and technical personnel currently associated with the group, should the group leader wish to do so, while maintaining full flexibility to define the future research strategy, team composition, and scientific direction of the group.

This position provides an outstanding environment for building an internationally competitive research program and is well aligned with European funding opportunities, including ERC. Outstanding candidates at all career stages are encouraged to apply. Applications from exceptional early-career researchers (typically with less than three years of postdoctoral experience), as well as from established and internationally recognized senior researchers are equally welcome.

Job Duties

The main responsibilities will include:

• Lead and develop an internationally competitive research programme in scalable 2D material device technologies with emphasis on ICT.
• Exploit INL's advanced MOCVD, cleanroom and advanced characterisation core facilities to establish innovative device platforms.
• Develop novel electronic, optoelectronic, ionic and sensing devices based on graphene, hBN, TMDs and related heterostructures.
• Establish ambitious research directions that combine scalable materials growth with advanced device fabrication and integration.
• Secure competitive research funding from national, European (including ERC Starting, Consolidator and Advanced Grants) and international programmes.

Academic Qualifications

Mandatory:

• PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Nanotechnology, Materials Science or related fields.

Key Experience and Technical Skills:

• Strong postdoctoral research record in 2D materials devices.
• Demonstrated expertise in device fabrication, large-scale 2D material synthesis (e.g., CVD, MOCVD, LPE), and their integration into functional systems.
• Evidence of independent scientific leadership, including impactful publications and innovative research achievements.

Other Valued Skills/Experience:

• Proficiency in device design and full awareness of relevant cleanroom nanofabrication.
• Deep knowledge of 2D materials and their electronic, ionic, or optoelectronic and thermal functionalities.
• Experience with scalable growth and processing of 2D materials, including sustainable and up scalable approaches.
• Strong command of structural, optical and transport characterisation techniques and willingness to extend to bespoke characterisation traceable methods.
• Track record in collaborative, multi-institutional research projects.
• Ability to formulate a strategic research vision and communicate it effectively.

Personal Skills

• Excellence     
• Inclusion and Diversity     
• Sustainability and Social Responsibility    
• Accountability    
• Teamwork    
• Communication     
• Innovation     
• Growth Mindset

Our Benefits

• Tax benefits and other Diplomatic privileges[1]
• Relocation support (travel expenses included)
• Guest House on-site included for the 1st month
• Private health insurance
• 30 working days of annual leave, plus 13 official holidays
• 9 days of paid sick leave per year
• Family allowance (160€/month according to family situation)
• Child allowance (200€/month for each dependent child)
• Nursery service onsite (subject to availability)
• Support for education fees of dependent children
• Support for fitness and sport expenses
• And more.

How to Apply

The application must be in English and include the following mandatory documents:

a) Cover letter

b) Curriculum Vitae with References information

c) Academic and/or Professional diplomas

Online application instructions:

1. The application is made by clicking the “Apply” button;
2. The candidate must submit the mandatory documents mentioned above in pdf format. Academic Certificates must be included in the “Additional files” section using the “Add portfolio” button.

Incomplete applications or applications providing inaccurate information will not be considered.

Additional Information

Application Feedback

It is important for INL to maintain good communications with all candidates. No matter the outcome of your application, we will always provide you with feedback.

Background Check Disclaimer

The selected candidate may be required to complete background checks as part of our R&S process. This may include criminal, educational, employment history, and other background information relevant to the employment qualifications.

Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Principle

INL follows a non-discrimination and equal access principle, wherefore all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, caste, genetics, pregnancy, disability, neurodivergence, age, veteran status, or other characteristics.

[1]About INL’s Diplomatic and Legal Status:

The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) is an Intergovernmental Organisation established by its Member States, Portugal and Spain, under international law. As such, INL enjoys a privileged diplomatic and legal status, comparable to that of other international organisations.

This unique status is governed by the INL Statute and the Headquarters Agreement with the Portuguese Republic, which provide both INL and its employees with specific rights and obligations, including:

• Exemption from certain national laws and taxes, as outlined in the Headquarters Agreement, specifically in relation to work-related matters
• Eligibility for a diplomatic ID card issued by the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which serves as the only residency document required in Portugal for the duration of the employment contract
• Protocol obligations, including the duty to respect local regulations while exercising privileges with responsibility and discretion
• Non-application of national labour laws, as INL operates under its own legal framework and Staff Rules, approved by INL Council

INL’s legal framework is designed to support a diverse and international workforce, enabling the organisation to operate independently from its Member States, drive cutting-edge research, and foster international scientific cooperation.