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study programme
Original title in Czech: Pokročilé materiály a nanovědyFaculty: CEITECAbbreviation: CEITEC-AMN-CZ-PAcad. year: 2025/2026
Type of study programme: Doctoral
Study programme code: P0588D110002
Degree awarded: Ph.D.
Language of instruction: Czech
Accreditation: 26.4.2021 - 26.4.2031
Mode of study
Full-time study
Standard study length
4 years
Programme supervisor
prof. RNDr. Radim Chmelík, Ph.D.
Doctoral Board
Chairman :prof. RNDr. Radim Chmelík, Ph.D.Vice-chairman :prof. Ing. Radimír Vrba, CSc.Councillor internal :prof. RNDr. Josef Jančář, CSc.prof. RNDr. Tomáš Šikola, CSc.prof. Ing. Miroslav Kolíbal, Ph.D.prof. RNDr. Karel Maca, Dr.Councillor external :prof. RNDr. Ludvík Kunz, CSc., dr. h. c.prof. RNDr. Václav Holý, CSc.prof. RNDr. Jiří Pinkas, Ph.D.
Fields of education
Issued topics of Doctoral Study Program
X-ray computed tomography (CT) is one of the most powerful methods for 3D visualization and inspection. This non-destructive method especially provides sufficient resolution and contrast to evaluate any microstructural features, with the ability to resolve structures even below one micron. The complete information about any biological sample, from macroscale to nanoscale, can be then easily acquired in non-destructive manner and thus enabling the visualization and the quantification of cellular features and intracellular spaces opening the way for virtual histology, live cell and subcellular imaging and correlative microscopy. This work addresses the practical implementation of lab-based CT systems with high-resolution for imaging and mainly 3D characterization of biological structures by development of dedicated sample preparation and CT measurement methodologies together with testing and evaluation of possibilities of advanced CT techniques such as phase-contrast imaging CT or dual-energy CT for those applications.
Tutor: Zikmund Tomáš, doc. Ing., Ph.D.
Recent advances in x-ray detection technologies have opened new possibilities in the field of computed tomography. Direct conversion systems make it possible to localize the detected photons more accurately. Devices with this technology also exhibit a direct relationship between the energy of incident photons and the magnitude of the output signal. Furthermore, cutting-edge photon counting technology enables modern detectors to discriminate between individual incident photons and measure their energies precisely. All these technologies can be used for high-speed acquisition with low noise, high-resolution spectral imaging, and quantitative tomographic methods. However, the novelty of these detectors also necessitates further research and development in terms of their applications. The aim of this topic is to study the suitability of these advanced technologies in the fields of metrology and industrial tomography, which focus on dimensional accuracy and require detectors to be calibrated according to widely recognized and norms and standards.
Quantum computers are currently applied in an ever-growing number of scientific and engineering research areas. Their onset is foreseen also in theoretical calculations in computational materials science. The prime topic of this PhD study will be to use currently available quantum computers and their simulations in a theoretical study of materials. The secondary topic will be to develop a suitable software tools for applications in the case of quantum computing technologies and systems.
Tutor: Friák Martin, Mgr., Ph.D.
This thesis explores the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to revolutionize battery technology, focusing on enhancing performance, lifespan, and sustainability. Advanced machine learning algorithms are employed to model battery behaviors, predict degradation, and optimize charging strategies. By leveraging data-driven insights, the research addresses critical challenges in battery design, including energy density improvements, safety, and material selection. The interdisciplinary approach bridges AI and electrochemistry, providing innovative solutions for next-generation energy storage systems. This work contributes significantly to the development of smarter, more efficient batteries for applications ranging from consumer electronics to electric vehicles and renewable energy grids.
Tutor: Pumera Martin, prof. RNDr., Ph.D.
This thesis investigates the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to accelerate the discovery and design of advanced materials. By utilizing machine learning algorithms and data-driven approaches, the research aims to predict material properties, optimize compositions, and identify novel candidates for specific applications. The study integrates computational modeling with experimental validation to address challenges in material performance, sustainability, and cost-efficiency. This interdisciplinary framework bridges AI, materials science, and chemistry, offering innovative pathways for developing next-generation materials for energy, healthcare, and environmental technologies. The findings significantly contribute to advancing the field of materials discovery through AI-driven methodologies.
This thesis explores the synergy between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and multiscale robotics to advance robotic systems capable of operating across multiple scales, from nano to macro. The research leverages AI-driven algorithms for precise control, motion planning, and adaptation in dynamic environments, enabling robots to perform complex tasks with high efficiency and accuracy. A particular focus is placed on the integration of machine learning with robotic fabrication, navigation, and manipulation strategies to address challenges in scalability, coordination, and functionality. By bridging robotics, AI, and material science, this interdisciplinary work contributes to the development of transformative technologies in fields such as biomedical applications, advanced manufacturing, and environmental monitoring. The findings significantly enhance the capabilities of multiscale robotic systems through intelligent design and operation.
Tato disertační práce zkoumá využití umělé inteligence (AI) k revoluci v návrhu, optimalizaci a funkčnosti senzorů, se zvláštním zaměřením na plynové senzory a biosenzory. Algoritmy řízené AI jsou využívány k analýze dat ze senzorů, zlepšení citlivosti a zvýšení selektivity prostřednictvím predikce výkonu materiálů a optimalizace architektury senzorů. Výzkum integruje strojové učení s výrobou senzorů a zpracováním signálů za účelem řešení výzev, jako je miniaturizace, monitorování v reálném čase a detekce více analyzovaných látek. Spojením AI, materiálového inženýrství a senzorové technologie tento výzkum posouvá vývoj inteligentních senzorových systémů pro aplikace ve zdravotnictví, monitorování životního prostředí a průmyslových procesech. Závěry práce významně přispívají k vývoji senzorů nové generace prostřednictvím metod vylepšených AI.
Address accurate reconstruction of image background and cell segmentation using artificial intelligence. Quantitative phase imaging has specific requirements, and standard approaches developed for fluorescence or other light microscopy contrast techniques are not directly applicable. Artificial intelligence will be useful in decomposing the image, and corrected raw data will be finally used to ensure maximum accuracy of the phase measurements.
Tutor: Zicha Daniel, doc. Ing., CSc.
X-ray imaging offers a way to non-destructively visualize the internal structure of the measured sample. It is often used to determine the presence and morphology of defects (inclusions, pores, cracks, etc.) in samples across many industries. Artificial intelligence, and specifically deep learning, currently represent stat- of-the-art in various image analysis tasks, including the detection of defects. However, the problem of limited or low-quality ground-truth annotated data often arises. In this project, advanced training strategies and weakly supervised, or completely unsupervised techniques will be developed to create robust deep learning models for defect detection in industrial X-ray imaging. These models will finally be validated on a multitude of real applications of X-ray imaging-based defect detection.
The highly-engineerable scattering properties of metallic and high-index semiconductor/dielectric nanostructures currently underpin the operation of nowadays metasurfaces. They support geometrical plasmonic or Mie resonances that offer strong light-matter interaction and excellent control over the scattering phase and amplitude. Their optical responses tend to be of a simple, linear form and they are hard to modify with external stimuli. As a result, basic Maxwell equation solvers can be used to predict and optimize their behavior. In stark contrast, van der Waals (vdW) materials comprised of atomically-thin layers bonded by the vdW force exhibit a fascinating diversity of quantum, collective, topological, non-linear, and ultrafast behaviors. It is exciting to think how such materials may open up new functions for metasurfaces [1]. This PhD topic aims to start addressing that question by exploring the new fundamental physics that can emerge at the cross roads of the metasurface and vdW fields. We will start by exploring how the properties of two-dimensional (2D) vdW semiconductors materials, such as the transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), can be modified by subwavelength patterning to form atomically-thin metasurfaces. Further, flat 2D-material based metasurface optical devices for dynamic wavefront control providing new functionalities not achievable by bulk optical elements or “classical” plasmonic or all-dielectric metasurfaces will be studied. References: [1] J. van de Groep et al., Exciton resonance tuning of an atomically thin lens, Nature Photonics 14, 426–430 (2020).
Tutor: Šikola Tomáš, prof. RNDr., CSc.
Are you interested in the fields of electrochemistry, or more broadly biomedical engineering? We are seeking talented students who are motivated to explore novel electronic methods to solve problems in fundamental biology and applied medicine within the new GAČR EXPRO project “Orthogonal Neuromodulation”. This interdisciplinary topic spans physical chemistry and electrochemistry, physiology, cell biology, and neuroscience. Collaboration with neuroscientists and participation in animal studies is envisioned as an important aspect of the project.
Tutor: Glowacki Eric Daniel, prof., Ph.D.
Classical biochemical tests in vitro are currently replaced by bioelectronic sensors that excel in their speed, reusability and minimal dimensions. One of the most promising materials in this area is graphene, which has a high sensitivity to the presence of adsorbed molecules and is biocompatible at the same time. The subject of the doctoral thesis will be development and production of biosensors based on graphene and related two-dimensional materials. In the thesis, it will be necessary to master the general physical principles of sensors, problems of field-controlled transistors with electrolytic gate and functionalization to achieve selective sensor response. A suitable applicant is a graduate of a Master's degree in Physical Engineering, Electrical Engineering or Biochemistry. Aims: 1) Managing physical principles of biosensors, their theoretical and experimental aspects. 2) Design and manufacture of a sensor based on a field-controlled transistor with an electrolytic gate. 3) Functionalization of sensor for specific biological and chemical reaction 4) Sensor response testing on selected biological materials. 5) Adequate publishing output and presentation of results at the international conference. Literature: Schedin, F.; Geim, A. K; Morozov, S. V.; Hill, E. W.; Blake, P.; Katsnelson, M. I; Novoselov, K. S., Detection of individual gas molecules adsorbed on graphene. Nature Materials 2007, 6, 652. Justino, C. I. L.; Gomes, A. R.; Freitas, A. C.; Duarte, A. C.; Rocha-Santos T. A. P., Graphene based sensors and biosensors. Trends in Analytical Chemistry 2017, 91, 53. Kaisti, M., Detection principles of biological and chemical FET sensors. Biosensors and Bioelectronics 2017, 98, 437. Wangyang, F.; Lingyan, F.; Panaitov, G.; Kireev, D.; Mayer, D.; Offenhausser, A.; Krause, H.-J., Biosensing near the neutrality point of graphene. Science Advances 2017, 3, 10, e1701247. Wangyang, F.; Lingyan, F.; Panaitov, G.; Kireev, D.; Mayer, D.; Offenhausser, A.; Krause, H.-J., Electrolyte-Gated Graphene Ambipolar Frequency Multipliers for Biochemical Sensing 2016, 16, 4, 2295.
Tutor: Bartošík Miroslav, doc. Ing., Ph.D.
Non-trivial topological electronic states are of particular interest due to their potential for high-temperature superconductivity and forming robust quantum states. The scope of this Ph.D. project is a theoretical characterization of structural, electronic and topological properties of 2D metal-organic frameworks incorporating heavy metals with large spin-orbit coupling. These systems will be investigated using density functional theory (DFT) calculations implemented in state-of-the-art codes (VASP, FHI-aims), followed by postprocessing procedures to characterize their topological properties, including Wannier orbital analysis and tight-binding modeling.
Tutor: Čechal Jan, prof. Ing., Ph.D.
Rotationally symmetric electromagnetic lenses used for imaging in electron microscopy are burdened by imaging aberrations that limit their resolution. Several physical principles have been described in the literature, which make it possible to correct aberrations of electromagnetic lenses. Image correction can be achieved, for example, by a multi-pole electromagnetic field, a phase plate formed by a solid substance or field, an electrostatic mirror and others. Correction systems have been successfully implemented on some types of electron microscopes (e.g. a hexapole corrector for a spherical aberration in a transmission microscope). The dissertation will be focused on the methodology of correction of imaging aberrations and the design of a correction system for an electron microscope in cooperation with the company TESCAN.
Tutor: Zlámal Jakub, doc. Ing., Ph.D.
Engineering and production of novel materials, including coatings and layers, is demanding new analytical solutions. Compared to other analytical techniques, Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) enables selective ablation of layers with variable depth resolution. However, the depth of the analysis with certain number of laser pulses differs for individual materials. The calibration of depth to laser pulse number is also of an issue, while there is no solid evidence for this phenomenon in classical LIBS literature. The goal of this thesis is to find complementary approaches, for instance using Computed Tomography and standard approaches of metallography, in depth profiling in order to fully calibrate LIBS technique to depth profile analysis. As an output, methodological protocol applicable across broad range of materials is demanded.
Tutor: Pořízka Pavel, doc. Ing., Ph.D.
The dissertation will focus on the design and fabrication of tunable metasurfaces for unconventional optical elements in the visible and infrared wavelength regions. Specific metasurface design methods using optimization algorithms with multiparametric metrics, such as the Gerchberg-Saxton algorithm, will be explored. Fabrication approaches will be investigated, together with possibilities of optical switching of the metasurface prototypes and active control of their function. The main goal of this work is to produce fully characterized prototypes of tunable metasurfaces with verified functionalities, which could be used for shaping high-performance optical beams or in the transmission and processing of optical signals in communication technologies.
Atmospheric Plasma Spray and High Velocity Oxy-Fuel techniques belong to the group of thermal spray technologies that are widely used to produce functional ceramic, cermet and metallic coatings in a large variety of industries, where the quality of deposited coatings significantly enhances durability and ensures reliability of coated components in service. Both techniques offer to set up a plethora of parameters related to material of the substrate, powder material and feeding, source of the heat, heat transfer, trajectory and velocity of molten or semi-molten particles, etc. that plays a crucial role in the resulting coating quality. Considering the requirement on coatings formation reproducibility it is substantial to focus on thermal spray process diagnostic systems that enable not only to monitor but also control the whole deposition process including its relation to final coatings properties. Currently available diagnostic systems are often restricted only to measure molten particles temperatures and velocities that are also limited by the size of the powder particles used. Therefore, this topic will focus on development of more advanced diagnostic system and research that will help to better understand the relation between these coating production technologies, measured and processed data from different sensors and resulting coatings properties. For the characterization, for example, the methods of Optical Emission Spectroscopy or Laser Absorption Spectroscopy will be used, that are expected to allow the measurement of not only the physical parameters of plasma, but also the properties of the particles during the deposition. The applicant will during the study deepen knowledge in design of these electronic systems, programming and data processing and learn the use modern manufacturing and coatings characterization techniques. Only, highly motivated candidates with outstanding track record in the areas of electronics, physics, mechanical engineering and/or materials science and engineering, and with the ability to work in the research team are welcome to apply.
Tutor: Čelko Ladislav, doc. Ing., Ph.D.
The focus of this thesis is to develop a magnetic field sensor that shall be integrated into an obstacle avoidance system for safe multi-copter operations. Beyond visual line of sight operations require a reliable detection of obstacles. This work focuses particularly on the detection of high-voltage lines. The sensor will be designed to be adaptive to allow in-situ filtering of stray fields, caused by the power train and electronic speed controllers (ESCs) of the uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs). The thesis work includes the fabrication of nano-structured semiconductor chips, which allow to selectively detect signals from motors or to compensate these for the detection of high-voltage lines. * Evaluation of inductive and magneto-resistive sensors and identification of suitable platform * Fabrication of a sensor chip that is able to compensate the stray fields from the ESCs * Fabrication of a sensor, including on-chip antennas for the detection of high-voltage lines * Fabrication of a differential sensor chip that is able to measure small magnetic field gradients to detect high voltage lines
Tutor: Detz Hermann, Dr.techn. Ing.
The main goal of the work will be the experimental development of an ultrafast scanning electron microscope enabling the analysis of samples using spatially and temporally modulated electron pulses. The electron pulses will be generated using photoemission driven by ultrashort laser pulses and their further spatial shaping will be achieved through interaction with shaped laser beams in the condenser system of the microscope. The first task of the student will be to modify the cathode module of the microscope for the introduction of a laser, and to test the thus modified source. The next task will be to introduce laser pulses for the excitation of the sample in the chamber and synchronize the electron and laser pulses to achieve high temporal resolution. The student will also develop a special module for the interaction of electrons and shaped laser pulses, which will be integrated in the condenser system of the microscope. The modified microscope will be used for experiments with samples exhibiting dynamic processes (e.g., phase transitions), and selected applications of shaped electron beams will also be investigated.
Tutor: Konečná Andrea, doc. Ing., Ph.D.
Pulsed Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) methods are intensively used to investigated structure and dynamics of complex macromolecules containing unpaired electrons. Among these methods Pulsed Electron-Electron Double Resonance (PELDOR) also known as Double Electron-Electron Resonance (DEER) has emerged as a powerful technique to determine relative orientation and distance between macromolecular structural units on nanometre scale. For successful applications of pulsed EPR methods it is important to have tools enabling transformation of measured signals into structural information. The goal of this PhD project is to develop new effective computational procedures and computer programs for the processing of measured pulsed EPR data in order to extract structural and dynamical information from experiments. This goal also includes application of the developed computational methods to real experimental data obtained on the molecules tagged with spin labels. For more details please contact Petr Neugebauer.
Tutor: Neugebauer Petr, doc. Dr. Ing., Ph.D.
The amount of data obtained in one experiment is steadily increasing. Contemporary state-of-the-art Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy system provide bulky data sets with millions of objects (spectra) and thousands of variables (wavelengths). Thus, there is a must driven by more efficient data storage, handling and processing; this might be tackled by lowering the dimension of raw data sets. This demands to truncate the information and omit redundancy and noise. In this work, advanced mathematical algorithms will be investigated, with special attention to non-linear algorithms. The main parameter is robustness of the algorithm. Outcomes of this thesis will be directly applied to data processing in various applications, including the multivariate mapping of sample surface.
Powder preparation is an important stage in the production of thermal spray coatings with the desired characteristics because powder composition, size distribution, shape, mass density, and mechanical resistance play a key role in the coating microstructure and its thermo-mechanical properties. A key feature of a powder for thermal spray is flowability, which can be adjusted through particle morphology, size and distribution. Good powder flowability can be achieved through appropriate powder processing, which can include mechanical milling and spray drying methods, which strongly affect the quality and properties of the powder. Therefore, deep and systematic studies on the relation between powder’s processing technology, its flowability and sprayability and the resulting microstructure and functional properties of the thermally sprayed coatings are missing. The aim of this doctoral thesis is to investigate the potential of combining the powder processing technologies through mechanical milling and spray drying for the production of advanced ceramic powders based on rare earth oxides, which will be suitable for the subsequent thermal spraying of functional coatings. The specific focus of the study is devoted to understanding of relation between powder’s chemistry, morphology, microstructure and its flowability, which is supported with the development of relevant approaches for characterization of this relation. Target coatings functionalities investigated in the PhD study include the controlled surface wettability, thermal or electrical conductivity or insulation, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance. Keywords: Chemical preparation, Mechanical milling, Spray drying, Thermal spray, Coating properties
Tutor: Tkachenko Serhii, Ph.D.
The theoretical analysis of novel optical effects and functionalities in modern nanophotonic structures is impossible without adequate and powerful numerical tools. Interestingly, the methods based on eigenmode expansion (EME), enabling a deep physical understanding of the problem, are often overlooked. That is why the project will focus on development and application of EME techniques suitable for the study of selected interesting problems of contemporary nanophotonics. Application will address topics such as nanophotonic lattices that support bound states in the continuum, the issues related with the loss compensation in plasmonic structures, systems with gain and loss where realistic models of gain media based on the rate equations for the populations is used, and modulation in hybrid waveguides with graphene.
Tutor: Petráček Jiří, prof. RNDr., Dr.
Implementation of antiferromagnetic materials in spintronic devices would allow increasing the operation speeds up to the Terahertz range and scaling down the device size to nanometer scale due to the absence of magnetic stray fields. The thesis will focus on exploring the fundamental physical mechanisms to control antiferromagnetic configurations using electrical current. The relevant phenomena are related to spin-orbit torques created by the spin Hall effect, alternatively to antiferromagnetic domain fragmentation using electrical current or optical pulses. The model platforms would involve antiferromagntetic and ferrimagnetic materials.
Tutor: Uhlíř Vojtěch, Ing., Ph.D.
Candidate will be trained in ammonia conversion, 3D printing, 2D materials synthesis, characterization and modification. Candidate will learn how to use different technologies of 3D printing to achieve desired electrocatalyst design. He/she will learn how to prepare high performance devices. Supervisor, Prof. Pumera, is highly cited researcher, see www.pumera.org, more info about the group on www.energy.ceitec.cz PhD candidate will be trained to use high end equipment at nano.ceitec.cz
Electron sources used in electron microscopes generate a beam with an energy distribution whose width is characteristic of the given source. The low energy dispersion is advantageous for microscopic techniques, because especially at low accelerating voltage, the contribution of the chromatic aberration is a significant factor limiting the resolution. The aim of the dissertation will be the design of an energy filter for the electron beam, which will enable the narrowing of the energy distribution in the electron beam emitted from the Schottky source and its realization in cooperation with the TESCAN company.
Ultra Fast TEM (U-TEM) allows to monitor dynamic phenomena such as phase changes, melting/crystallization of materials with time resolution in ns to ps. Furthermore, samples sensitive to electron beam exposure can be observed using stroboscopic illumination (another U-TEM mode). Current U-TEM microscopes use photoemission sources or a combination of standard sources with very fast deflectors (RF cavity,…). Nanostructured materials appear to be very promising for the production of U-TEM electron sources. For example, GaN materials are seems to be good candidate for this purpose due to their considerable chemical and thermal resistence, low switching voltage of 1.25 V/um and high current density. The properties of the cathode depend to a large extent on the shape and form of nanostructures such as nanotubes, nanocarbons and nanocrystals.
The PhD study will be aimed at characterization of van der Waals materials and measurement of their functional properties. It will especially cover new types of these materials such as MXenes, their multilayers with TMDs, as well as 2D perovskites. As the major investigation tool, electron microscopy will be applied, namely a newly developed 4D STEM with FIB for fabrication and in situ analysis of lamellas of these materials, as well as HR (S)TEM for getting atomically resolved information. This will enable to study structure (electron diffraction), composition (EDS, EELS) and selected functional properties (e.g. localized surface plasmons and their coupling with excitons) of these novel materials.
The dissertation will deal with the development of electron tweezers, which allows to move droplets of eutectic liquids on the surface of semiconductors. The electron tweezers utilize the focused electron beam and is already tested in the UHV-SEM microscope, developed in cooperation with TESCAN company. During the controlled movement, the gold-containing droplet can for example etch or otherwise modify the surface of semiconductors (germanium, silicon). The dissertation thesis should focus on the interaction of different eutectic droplets with various substrates including 2D materials (graphene, etc.). Part of this work will be optimization of this process including its real-time monitoring using UHV-SEM microscope.
Tutor: Bábor Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.
The proposed PhD project aims to synthesize and characterize magnetically active transition metal complexes, specifically iron(II) Spin Crossover (SCO) complexes and cobalt(II) or lanthanide(III) Single Molecule Magnets (SMMs). These coordination compounds demonstrate magnetic bi- or multistability, making them highly appealing from an application standpoint. Initially envisioned for data processing and recording, their potential applications have since expanded to include electronic transport properties. This encompasses investigations into dielectric permittivity and electrical conductivity across bulk powders, deposited surfaces, and single molecules integrated into test devices. The project specifically focuses on incorporating photoactive moieties into the molecular structure of ligands, enabling photoswitching among various magnetic states of coordination compounds. The PhD study will concentrate on advancing organic and coordination synthesis techniques for both mononuclear and polynuclear complexes of transition metals. Newly synthesized compounds will undergo thorough characterization using analytical and spectral methods. Magnetic properties will be assessed through HFEPR&FIRMS and MPMS SQUID magnetometry. Furthermore, coordination compounds exhibiting the most intriguing magnetic bistability will be deposited onto surfaces using sublimation or wet lithography techniques.
Tutor: Šalitroš Ivan, doc. Ing., Ph.D.
The topic of the Ph.D. thesis is focused on the experimental description of La-Ni-M ternary systems in the entire concentration range at different temperatures. These alloys are perspective materials for the formation of the hydrides and their potential use in the field of hydrogen storage materials. The storage of hydrogen in the solid phase has a high application potential in the field of power supply and transport. Alloy samples will be prepared using a arc melting furnace and subsequently annealed for a long time in quartz glass ampoules. The prepared samples will be characterized using a combination of static and dynamic analytical methods, mainly scanning electron microscopy SEM, X-ray powder diffraction XRD and thermal analysis DSC/DTA. Based on the obtained data, an experimental ternary phase diagram will then be constructed. A powder will be created from the selected samples and their reactivity with hydrogen will be tested and the kinetics of hydrogen adsorption and desorption will be studied. The aim of the theoretical part of the thesis is the modeling of phase equilibria and phase diagrams using the CALPHAD (Calculation of Phase Diagrams) method implemented in Pandat and ThermoCalc programs. The result of the theoretical part of the work will be a predicted phase diagram with the best possible agreement with the obtained experimental and the data from literature.
Tutor: Zobač Ondřej, Mgr., Ph.D.
The rapid advancements in additive manufacturing have revolutionized the fabrication of complex porous structures using metals, ceramics, and polymers. By integrating hybrid processing techniques, we can now achieve unprecedented control over topography, unlocking new possibilities for high-performance cellular materials. In this PhD project, you will have the opportunity to master and develop cutting-edge processing techniques for cellular materials, enhancing their mechanical, chemical, optical, magnetic, and biological properties. You will work in CEITEC-BUT’s state-of-the-art facilities, leveraging advanced infrastructure to explore and push the limits of cellular material performance across a wide range of applications. We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a proactive mindset, strong scientific curiosity, and a solid foundation in professional, methodological, and ethical research practices. If you are passionate about innovation and eager to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in cellular materials, we encourage you to apply.
Tutor: Montufar Jimenez Edgar Benjamin, M.Sc., Ph.D.
The main objective of the work is to develop fast data processing methods for processing force-distance-energy data coming from Scanning Probe Microscopy on surfaces relevant for life sciences research and medicine, including curve classification tools based on machine learning, providing both the curve quality feedback to the SPM controller and initial estimates for the nano-mechanical and electrical fits, with known measurement uncertainty related to data quality and data processing. This will be combined with research on potential speedup methods in fitting of large volumes of curves (e.g. using Field Programmable Gate Arrays, Graphics cards and machine learning), and finally will lead to integration into an autonomous multiparametric SPM in cooperation with other partners in the MSCA-Doctoral Network project “Autonomous Scanning Probe Microscopy for Life Sciences and Medicine powered by Artificial Intelligence (SPM4.0)”. In parallel to this, aspects of machine learning explainability and uncertainty in SPM will be handled. To achieve it the doctoral candidate will • Develop both machine learning based and conventional methods based data processing routines for force-distance and force-distance-energy data cubes. • Contribute to Gwyddion open source software development to be used as a demonstrator platform for developed routines. • Integrate the algorithms into autonomously running microscopes. • Cooperate on the goals of SPM4.0 project by performing joint research with other doctoral candidates, visiting the partner institutions and attending training activities organized by the consortium. The candidate will be supported by a 3-year job offered by the Czech Metrology Institute in the framework of the Horizon Europe MSCA-Doctoral Network “Autonomous Scanning Probe Microscopy for Life Sciences and Medicine powered by Artificial Intelligence (SPM4.0)” and should therefore match the eligibility criteria for mobility within the project and other MSCA Doctoral Network rules. This project is funded by the European Union (GA: 101168976) and in total will involve 16 PhD positions distributed in 10 research centers/academic institutions and 3 companies from Spain, Sweden, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Czech Republic and UK. Conditions to fulfill to get this support are listed here.
Tutor: Klapetek Petr, Mgr., Ph.D.
The PhD project will concentrate on a study of complex issues related to development of UV detectors using GaN (Ga)/graphene nanostructures. The initial part of the study will focuses on the preparation of Ga and GaN nanostructures on poly-and single-crystal graphene using a low-temperature deposition method. The low temperature growth of GaN nanocrystals will be carried out by a combination of UHV PVD technologies such as Ga vapour deposition and low energy nitrogen ion-beam (50 eV) post-nitridation using a unique ion-atomic beam source [1] . The growth of GaN will be realized at much lower temperatures (T<250°C) than in conventional technologies (e.g. MOCVD, 1000°C). Subsequently, the relation between parameters/functional properties of Ga and GaN nanostructures and deposition conditions will be studied. The complex characterization of the Ga (GaN)/graphene nanostructures will be provided by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Scanning Probe Microscopy (AFM, EFM, SKFM), Raman spectroscopy, photoluminescence micro-spectroscopy, etc. Finally, the electrical response of the nanostructures to UV radiation will be studied via a FET-setup utilizing these optimized nanostructures as photosensitive elements. References: [1] J. Mach, P. Procházka, M. Bartošík, D. Nezval, J. Piastek, J. Hulva, V. Švarc, M. Konečný, and T. Šikola, Nanotechnology, Vol. 28, N. 41 (2017).
Tutor: Mach Jindřich, doc. Ing., Ph.D.
Spin waves in the THz region have become a subject of growing interest due to a high group velocity of magnons (steep dispersion curve) which renders them attractive for the design of ultrafast spintronic devices [1]. Here, antiferromagnetic materials like rare earth orthoferrites (RFeO3) could be a solution because of their very high (terahertz) frequencies of spin resonances [2], [3]. However, due to the lack of efficient sources and detectors, the physics of magnons at THz frequencies is far less studied. The proposed interdisciplinary PhD study combining photonics and magnetism is based on generation and detection of THz spin waves by near fields enhanced by plasmonic resonant structures - antennas. It brings a new qualitative view into this subject. The antennas will be fabricated on a substrate surface, ideally on ribbons or magnonic crystals made out of RFeO3 thin film samples (e.g. TmFeO3) by EBL/FIB at CEITEC. Then, the magnons propagating along these structures will be analysed by a Brillouin light scattering (BLS) micro-spectrophotometer [4], using the method reported in [5] and successfully implemented at CEITEC [6]. Further, to extend the detected Brillouin-zone range, plasmonic resonant nanostructures providing large momentum components in their near-field hot spots will be used as well [7]. In this PhD study, plasmonic resonant structures for generation and detection of magnons should be optimized, and then dispersion relations tuned by shape, dimensions and periodicity of ribbons/magnonic crystals [6] and external magnetic field. Supportively, magnetic near-field enhanced THz T-D spectroscopy might be applied to test magnon-polariton dispersion curves of the thin film samples according to [3]. References: [44] K. Zakeri, PHYSICA C 549, 164, 2018. [45] J. Guo, J. Phys.: Condens. Matter 32, 185401, 2020. [41] K. Grishunin, ACS Photonics 5, 1375, 2018. [46] T. Sebastian, …, H. Schultheiss, Front. Phys. 3, 35, 2015. [47] K. Vogt, …, B. Hillebrands, Appl. Phys. Lett. 95, 182508, 2009. [38] L. Flajšman, …, M. Urbánek, Phys. Rev. B 101, 014436, 2020. [X] R. Freeman,,…., Phys. Rev. Research 2, 033427 (2020).
Generative models are machine learning models that are used to learn a probability distribution of the data. When the underlying distribution is correctly captured, it can be easily sampled to obtain new data or compute (physical) quantities. Recently, many novel architectures appeared (e.g. for text-to-image generation) with exceptional performances. Accordingly, there are many scientific applications ranging from cosmology to condensed matter systems. We will explore the potential of these models for spectroscopic data. The focus will be laid on so-called energy-based models that take inspiration from physics.
Magnetic spin waves (magnons) have become a subject of an intensive research due to their high application potential in future electronics and communication technologies. There are several methods how to detect them, one should especially refer to the Brillouin light scattering (BLS), [1]. This technique brings information about the amplitude and phase of magnons and can be operated in a microscopic mode provided by a BLS micro-spectrophotometer [2] available at CEITEC Nano Research Infrastructure [3]. However, as the spectrophotometer utilizes conventional optical element, the spatial resolution does not exceed the diffraction limit. To beat this limit, PhD study will deal with the utilization of nanophotonic effects similar to those used in tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS), i.e. formation of enhanced near optical fields (so called hot spots) in the vicinity of specially designed AFM tips equipped with resonant nanoparticles (antennas). Simultaneously, the near-field hot spots of these resonant nanostructures will provide large momentum components and thus an extension of the detected Brillouin-zone range [4], [5]. The study will concentrate on the modification of AFM modules for tip-enhanced BLS microscopy and testing of optimized AFM tips in this technique. References: [1] T. Sebastian et al., Front. Phys. 3, 35, 2015. [2] K. Vogt et al., Appl. Phys. Lett. 95, 182508, 2009. [3] L. Flajšman etal., Urbánek, Phys. Rev. B 101, 014436, 2020. [4] R. Freeman et al., Phys. Rev. Research 2, 033427 (2020). [5] O. Wojewoda et al, Communications Physics, (2023), https://doi.org/10.1038/s42005-023-01214-z .
Hydrogels are currently the most promising materials for the moist healing of chronic wounds, however, in addition to physical parameters, they must also have ideal biological properties that will not only prevent the rapid elimination of pathogens but also accelerate wound healing, including blood supply. The work will focus on additives that could replace overused antibiotics that cause bacterial resistance, and on substances that accelerate healing, coping with wound hypoxia and insufficient blood supply to damaged tissue.
Tutor: Vojtová Lucy, doc. Ing., Ph.D.
Hydrogen is a very prospective and eco-friendly fuel which can bring significant economical and environmental benefits. The main obstacle that impedes expected future of hydrogen technology is safe and acceptably efficient hydrogen storage (HS). It is generally accepted that a possible solution to this problem is HS in solid phase of metallic materials (HSM). However, there are not HSMs up to now with sufficient HS properties at low temperature and pressure. Therefore, the main idea of this study is to investigate HS properties of new perspective model alloys which could show effective HS at temperatures near to room temperature and at low pressure. One of ways how to influence HS properties HSM is to change their phase and chemical composition. The results could lead to new strategies in development of HSM.
Tutor: Král Lubomír, Ing., Ph.D.
Low Energy Ion Scattering (LEIS) has proven its capability to study the elemental composition of solid-state surfaces. It is a low-energy modification of Ernest Rutherford's famous experiment with the scattering of alpha particles on gold foil. The extreme surface sensitivity of the technique is widely used in the analysis of the composition of a topmost atomic layer with nanometre depth resolution. The sensitivity of the methods originates mainly from charge exchange mechanisms between the projectile and involved surface atoms. Only a small fraction of the scattered projectiles leaves the surface in an ionized state. This ion fraction is represented by characteristic velocity that is the measure of the charge exchange processes and is characteristic of the given combination of the projectile and surface atom. The characteristic velocity is frequently influenced by the chemical arrangement of the sample surface as well. This project aims to characterise the charge exchange processes between the He+ and Ne+ ions (projectiles) on a variety of solid-state surfaces and thin layers. The primary kinetic energies of the projectiles will be varied within the range between 0.5 keV to 7.0 keV. The outputs of the project will significantly improve the potential of the LEIS technique in the field of quantitative analysis. The experiments will be performed on a dedicated high-sensitivity LEIS instruments – Qtac100 (ION TOF GmbH) at Ceitec BUT and at partner institutions at TU Wien and Twente University. A very effective tool for studying charge exchange is the LEIS spectrometer with an energy analyzer based on Time of Flight (ToF) measurement, which allows comparing the intensities of the ionized and neutralized parts of the detected signal in one experiment. Therefore, as part of the study, an internship in the scientific group of Professor Daniel Primetzhofer at Uppsala University in Sweden is proposed. For reference see for example: • S. Průša, P. Procházka, P. Bábor, T. Šikola, R. ter Veen, M. Fartmann, T. Grehl, P. Brüner, D. Roth, P. Bauer, H.H. Brongersma, Highly Sensitive Detection of Surface and Intercalated Impurities in Graphene by LEIS, Langmuir 31 (35) (2015) 9628–9635, https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.langmuir.5b01935 • S. Průša, M.R. Linford, E. Vaníčkova, P. Bábík, J.W. Pinder, T. Šikola, H. H. Brongersma, A Practical Guide to Interpreting Low Energy Ion Scattering (LEIS) Spectra, Appl. Surf. Sci. (2023) 158793, https://doi.org/10.1016/j. apsusc.2023.158793 • D. Goebl, R.C. Monreal, D. Valdés, D. Primetzhofer, P. Bauer, Calculation of Auger-neutralization probabilities for He+ -ions in LEIS, Nucl. Instrum. Meth. B 269 (2011), https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nimb.2010.11.042
Tutor: Průša Stanislav, doc. Ing., Ph.D.
Geometric-phase optical elements are a new tool for complex light shaping and generation of special states of light. Unlike traditional refractive elements, the geometric-phase elements control the light using transformation of its polarization state. Thanks to technology of liquid crystals or principles of plasmonics, geometric-phase elements provide abrupt phase changes on physically thin substrates. Compact size and unique polarization properties make them ideal candidates for simply integrable spatial light modulators. The dissertation thesis topic is to find and verify the potential of geometric-phase elements in common-path digital holography and advanced optical imaging.
Tutor: Bouchal Petr, Ing., Ph.D.
Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) is a powerful analytical technique that has been gaining popularity in the polymer industry for the detection and quantification of trace elements. One challenge in the analysis of polymer matrices is the detection of halogens and other elements at trace levels. Multi-pulse LIBS has been shown to improve the detection limits of halogens and other trace elements in polymer matrices. The main aim of this thesis is the use of multi-pulse LIBS for the detection of trace elements (esp. halogens) in polymer matrix. This approach should offer several advantages over other analytical techniques; it requires minimal sample preparation of a variety of polymers, including polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyvinyl chloride. This technique has the potential to improve the quality control of polymers by providing accurate and reliable detection of trace elements, which can affect the performance and properties of the final product.
The observation of layered materials growth at nanoscale is a challenging task. In our group, we have a large expertise in real time electron microscopy and we operate beyond-state-of-the-art instrumentation (LEEM, UHV SEM and SEM for observations in extreme conditions). The aim of this PhD dissertation is to revealing the growth modes of 2D materials (transitiv metal dichalcogenides, group-IV-based 2D materials etc.) and thein properties by advanced microscopy and spectroscopy in UHV as well as under high pressure and at high temperature. Student is expected to be involved in instrumentation development and experimental verification on selected material systems.
Tutor: Kolíbal Miroslav, prof. Ing., Ph.D.
Laser ablation of matter is an essential process involved in the chemical analysis using various techniques of analytical chemistry. The spectroscopic investigation of characteristic plasma emission provides qualitative and quantitative information about the sample of interest. Standard analysis is based on the processing of emission signal; the process of laser ablation and consecutive development of laser-induced plasma is marginal and of little analytical interest. But, understanding the complexity of laser-matter interaction is a crucial step in the improvement of the latter data processing approaches. Thus, this work will target the investigation of spatial and temporal development of laser-induced plasmas, imaging of plasma plumes and determination of their thermodynamic properties. Outcomes of this work will be used in further advancement of the ablation of various materials (incl. biological tissues), improvement of optomechanical instrumentation (collection optics) and optimization of signal standardization.
Plastic recycling and production is currently at its climax, current legislative is forcing faster processing of material while avoiding toxic metal content. Plastic industry is looking for solution in analytical chemistry, with high throughput and satisfactory analytical performance. Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) technique is being intensively applied in various industrial applications. Its robustness and instrumental simplicity drive its direct implementation into production processes and even to production lines. The goal of this thesis is design of LiBS instrumentation, methodological protocol for classification of individual plastic materials and detection of toxic metals using LIBS spectra.
The thesis will focus on finding efficient routes to control magnetic configurations without applied magnetic fields using femtosecond laser stimuli. The physical phenomena involved are linked to ultrafast spin dynamics and the associated energy and angular momentum transfer between the spins, electrons, and lattice. The proposed experimental approach will exploit magnetic heterostructures to generate collective magnetic excitations. The first milestone is to implement a system for transport measurement of spin currents in the geometry of the lateral spin valve. The project assumes previous experience with optical set-ups.
The topic aims at optimizing quantitative analysis of cell behavior with high accuracy for measurements of cell reactions to experimental treatments with applications in cancer research. The topic involves cell culture, specimen preparation for microscopy, time-lapse acquisition, image processing, data analysis, and interpretation. Requirements: knowledge of fundamentals of optics, cell biology, microscopy, coding, the ability to work independently and in a team, and high motivation.
The PhD project is aimed at the study of strong coupling between the localized surface plasmons in antennas and phonons in resonantly absorbing non-metallic environments and, consequently, to exploitation of this knowledge for finding and utilizing general principles of spatially localized plasmon-enhanced absorption. The study will tackle this issue in the near IR and mid-IR range and verify it in new types of uncooled antenna-coupled microbolometers with improved sensitivity and spatial resolution response. Due to common characteristics of index of refraction at absorption peaks/bands of materials, the outcomes and conclusions can find direct applications in other spectral regions, regardless the physical origin of resonant absorption. It will make it possible to carry out research on challenging phenomena exploitable not only in the local heating of materials, but also in IR and light detection, energy harvesting, (bio)sensing, quantum technology, etc. References: Břínek L. et al., ACS Photonics 5 (11), 4378-4385, 2018
Single molecular magnets (SMM) are molecular entities bearing nonzero magnetic moment. In addition to the magnetic properties SMM provide one important attribute: they represent two-state system that can be in superposition state, i.e., SMM represent quantum bits (qubits). Recent developments pushed the coherence properties of individual magnets to the range required for competitive qubits. However, for any future application the molecular qubits should be processable as thin films. Moreover, the individual qubits should be mutually interacting. The goal of PhD study is to prepare long-range ordered arrays of molecular qubits on solid surfaces a possible basis for a molecular quantum registry. The experimental research within the PhD study aims at the understanding of deposition/self-assembly phenomena of organic compounds containing magnetic atoms on metallic and graphene surfaces. A special focus will be given to graphene surfaces that provide means to control their electronic properties (by intercalation or external gate voltage) and, hence, mutual interaction of individual spins. The spin coherence properties will be investigated by cooperating partners at CEITEC and University of Stuttgart. (For detailed information, please, directly contact the Jan Čechal)
There are numerous uses for electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy in chemistry, physics, biology, materials science, and medicine. EPR has a less adopted use in applied sciences compared to nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), partly because the interpretation and analytical work for comprehending the results of a set of observations require a spectroscopist with a dedicated background in the technique. This PhD project will use contemporary machine learning (ML) algorithms to automatize spectral analysis using computer-simulated spectra as a training set and prove the concepts by applying them to real data obtained in the lab. This will help bring the powerful features of EPR as a characterization and diagnostic technique closer to other communities inside and outside the academic sphere by creating an automatized tool for spectral analysis. The extensive range of EPR experiments makes it impractical or even impossible to cover all modes and applications. Thus, the student will concentrate on the spin trapping method, which uses continuous-wave EPR to identify radical species in catalytic reactions. There is a vast online database for assigning radical species with their EPR-derived spectrum parameters, and the assignment process will also be automatized. Upon the success in this application, the workflow can be adapted to be used in different spectral fitting problems. Objectives - Review the literature and understand the theory and applications of EPR spectroscopy. - Identify the range of all relevant EPR parameters for the common spin trapping agents, adducts and develop an algorithm to create the training set for the ML algorithm. - Select and train a ML algorithm with one, two and possibly more adduct species with a variable concentration in order to automatize the fitting of experimental data. - Use the online database (https://tools.niehs.nih.gov/stdb/index.cfm) to enable the automatic identification of radical species based on the results of the fitting. - Develop a tool with a user interface to make the solution available to the community via open repositories. - Prepare manuscripts with described and discussed results to be submitted to peer-reviewed journals. Keywords: Electron Paramagnetic Rezonance (EPR), machine learning (ML), spin trapping, radical, catalysis. Literature: [1] WEIL, John A. a James R. BOLTON. Electron paramagnetic resonance: elementary theory and practical applications. 2nd edition. Hoboken: Wiley-Interscience, 2007. ISBN 978-0-471-75496-1. [2] Jeschke, G. (2019). Quo vadis EPR? Journal of Magnetic Resonance, 306, 36–41. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.JMR.2019.07.008 [3] Biller, J. R., & McPeak, J. E. (2021). EPR Everywhere. Applied Magnetic Resonance 2021 52:8, 52(8), 1113–1139. https://doi.org/10.1007/S00723-020-01304-Z [4] Roessler, M. M., Salvadori, E. (2018). Principles and applications of EPR spectroscopy in the chemical sciences. Chemical Society Reviews, 47(8), 2534–2553. https://doi.org/10.1039/C6CS00565A
Machine learning is one of the most exciting tools that have entered the material science toolbox in recent years. It has become very popular and grown very quickly. One of its recent and promising applications is a generation of reliable and efficient interatomic potentials. This PhD topic will cover generation and DFT (density functional theory) benchmarking of machine-learned potentials and their subsequent application to selected groups of advanced materials.
Tutor: Černý Miroslav, prof. Mgr., Ph.D.
Localized surface plasmons (LSP) generated in metal nanoparticles (plasmonic antennas) can exhibit various modes differing in energy, charge distribution (dipoles vs. multipoles) and radiation capability (bright and dark modes). One of the most effective methods enabling generation and characterization - mapping of these modes at the single antenna level is Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS) provided by High-resolution Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR STEM). The PhD study will be aimed at application of HR STEM-EELS for mapping the modes of LSP in plasmonic antennas. The emphasis will be especially put at a study of hybridized modes of coupled antenna structures and/or strong coupling effects between modes in plasmonic antennas and excitations in their surrounding environments. These excitations will be polaritons in quantum nanodots localized nearby antennas (the visible range) and/or phonons in absorbing antenna substrate membranes (IR – mid IR). In the former case, the experiment will be carried out by HR STEM-EELS at CEITEC Nano infrastructure (Titan), in the latter case, by Nion Ultra STEM available at some laboratories abroad (e.g. Oak Ridge national laboratory).
Metal-insulator transition (MIT) is a phase change between high-conductivity and low-conductivity state of matter, typically related to strong electron-electron correlation. Materials exhibiting MIT are promising candidates for applications in fast optical switching or novel optical elements. While the mechanism of MIT is satisfactorily understood in bulk materials, much less is known about the role of domain boundaries, atomic-scale defects, or interfaces in nanostructures. Ph.D. thesis shall focus on utilizing temperature-dependent analytical electron microscopy to gain a deep insight into the interplay between temperature, local crystal structure, and electronic structure for MIT in a specific material, possibly vanadium dioxide.
Tutor: Křápek Vlastimil, doc. Mgr., Ph.D.
Presence of internal interfaces is important for functional properties of bulk materials as well as for properties of nanoparticles. Interfaces can serve as barriers for dislocation glide or mediate plasticity by themselves. Besides, internal interfaces can affect shape and symmetry of nanoparticles. Twin boundaries are specific kind of interfaces, which have special symmetry and, as rule, low energy. Variety of twin modes are known for materials with non-cubic symmetry (Mg, Ti, Ni-Ti etc.), where twin boundaries can occur as consequence of plastic deformation, crystal growth or phase transformation. However, this process is often spontaneous and development of methods to control the process is important and still unsolved problem. This project is devoted to computer simulations of twinning process in order to develop methods how to reach of initiation and subsequent growth of specific type of twin in non-cubic metallic materials.
Tutor: Ostapovets Andriy, Ph.D., Mgr.
For detailed info please contact the supervisor.
Tutor: Kalousek Radek, doc. Ing., Ph.D.
Nitrides of Ga, Al, and In are key materials for next-generation electronics and optoelectronics, yet their performance is strongly influenced by atomic-scale charge transfer and defect interactions. Our group has developed an innovative empirical model that self-consistently treats ionicity and covalency, offering a fresh perspective on these complex materials. This Ph.D. project will use molecular statics and dynamics simulations to investigate charge transfer and structural properties around extended defects in III-nitrides. In its second phase, this approach will be applied to explore critical III-nitride/Si interfaces, essential for integrating these semiconductors with existing technologies. The findings will directly inform an ongoing experimental project on optimizing epitaxial growth. This research provides an opportunity to work at the intersection of computational modeling and real-world applications, contributing to the advancement of III-nitride-based devices.
Tutor: Gröger Roman, doc. Ing., Ph.D. et Ph.D.
The PhD project aims to develop novel theranostics - multifunctional magnetic nanoplatforms integrating drug delivery, magnetic hyperthermia, and cellular imaging. The proposed work combines fundamental materials research in small molecule and nanoparticle design with cutting-edge nanobiotechnology and biomedical applications to develop an innovative basis for functional cancer therapy. The candidate will be trained in an interdisciplinary environment, gaining expertise in molecular and nanomaterial synthesis and characterization supported by computational modeling and biological evaluation.
This PhD research aims to develop and investigate nanomagnonic devices utilizing CoFeB ultrathin films with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) as a platform for miniaturized and energy-efficient spintronic applications. The focus will be on exploiting voltage-controlled magnetic anisotropy (VCMA) to achieve precise and dynamic control of spin waves, enabling reconfigurable magnonic circuits without the need for external magnetic fields. The study will explore the fabrication and characterization of CoFeB thin films, emphasizing the optimization of PMA and VCMA effects through careful material engineering and interface design. Spin-wave propagation and manipulation in nanoscale waveguides will be analyzed using a combination of micromagnetic simulations and experimental techniques, including Brillouin light scattering (BLS) and spintronic experiments. Key objectives include demonstrating voltage-tunable spin-wave filters, logic gates, and non-reciprocal devices that leverage the strong VCMA effect in CoFeB/MgO interfaces. Additionally, the research will investigate energy-efficient mechanisms for spin-wave excitation and damping control, crucial for the scalability of magnonic devices. The results are expected to contribute significantly to the field of nanomagnonics by providing a pathway towards highly integrated, low-power magnonic circuits suitable for beyond-CMOS technologies.
Tutor: Urbánek Michal, Ing., Ph.D.
The goal of the PhD study is to exploit unique functionalities of nanophotonic devices [1] in specific areas related to quantum technologies, e.g. quantum information processes. First, the near optical fields generated by metallic or dielectric nano/microantennas will be used for enhancement of efficiency of single-photon emitters associated with defects-colour centres in 2D materials and/or bulk single crystals (e.g. SiC, diamond). Second, to collect and transfer these photons, all-dielectric nanophotonic metasurfaces will be designed, fabricated and tested [2], [3]. The outputs of such a study will contribute to a progress in very recent efforts in quantum optical experiments at micro/nano scale. References: [1] L. Novotny and B. Hecht, Principles of Nano-optics, Cambridge, 2006 [2] Hui-Hsin Hsiao, Small methods, 1, 2017, 1600064 [3] M. Radulaski et al., Scalable Quantum Photonics with Single Color Centers in Silicon Carbide, Nano Lett., vol. 17, no. 3, pp. 1782–1786, 2017
The interaction of the electron beam with a semiconductor produces bound electron-hole pairs that exhibit different lifetimes in the defect-free material and in the vicinity of defects. Scanning the surface with an electron beam while measuring the Electron Beam Induced Current (EBIC) produces detailed 2D maps with darker regions indicating defect locations. This project aims to revolutionatize the existing technology by using a conductive AFM tip positioned adjacent to the electron beam to collect EBIC current with higher resolution. Its theoretical part will describe the electron beam - sample interactions, charge collection efficiency by point metal-semiconductor junctions, and adapting these principles for self-sensing cantilevers operating at resonant frequency. Working within NenoVision's innovative application team, the student will translate the theoretical concepts and novel design principles into practical solutions. The project also incorporates machine learning techniques that can automatically identify and classify specific defect types, creating a comprehensive system that transforms semiconductor quality control and failure analysis capabilities.
Most engineering products exposed to high temperatures and harsh environments are prone to failure due to thermal shock issues, which cause system and component degradation and eventual failure during thermal cycles. Surface modification by depositing various types of coatings have been used in industrial sectors to improve system efficiency. Thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) have recently become one of the high temperature industries' top priorities. There is a growing interest in the use of novel TBC due to the need to increase the efficiency of gas turbine engines and energy generating systems. TBCs that are new and modern have been developed to solve problems associated with traditional ones while also increasing their efficiency. New and modern TBCs are classified into several categories, including TBCs with new materials such as Perovskite and Pyrochlore structure, high entropy materials and new structures. One of the most significant new materials that can alter the properties (especially thermal conductivities) and life span of the TBCs is high entropy ceramics. A number of high entropy materials have been progressed in recent years with unparalleled characteristics, such as low thermal conductivity, high thermal stability, tunable CTE, suitable water-vapor corrosion properties, low grain growth rate, high hardness, and high thermal. Particularly, the effects of lattice distortion and high entropy result in phonon scattering rise, which leads to low thermal conductivities in HEAs compared to single-component compounds. Among the properties, low thermal conductivity accompanied by phonon scattering with different atoms can be accounted as one of the most significant features of high entropy materials that make them suitable for the application of environmental and thermal barrier protection. The proposed study will focus on the processing and characterization of fluorite and pyrochlore structure-based bulk high-entropy ceramics and coating systems for the application of extreme environments. It is noteworthy to develop high-entropy ceramic films in order to design a novel high-entropy ceramic material with superior properties for a practical application in surface science is of utmost importance. These categories of oxide materials generally possess a high melting temperature, high hardness, low thermal conductivity, and high oxygen conductivities. Thus, they are suitable candidates for high-temperature coating applications especially, thermal barrier coatings. Key words: High entropy ceramic, Thermal barrier coating, Hot corrosion, High temperature
Algorithms for the reconstruction of 3D refractive index distribution of unstained samples from data obtained by holographic incoherent light source quantitative phase imaging using a Telight Q-Phase microscope will be investigated and developed. The algorithms will be targeted at highly scattering samples of biological nature and reconstruction in real time. The results will be preliminary tested on three-dimensional biological samples common in cancer research and digital histopathology. Requirements: knowledge of the fundaments of optics, cell biology, microscopy, programming, ability to work independently and in a team and high motivation.
Tutor: Chmelík Radim, prof. RNDr., Ph.D.
Magnetic materials constitute a highly tunable platform for the design of adaptive optical and magnonic elements. Moreover, coupled order parameters in complex magnetic phase-transition materials can be controlled using various driving forces such as temperature, magnetic and electric field, strain, spin-polarized currents and optical pulses. The Ph.D. candidate will explore the first-order metamagnetic phase transition in materials that have been subjected to strong spatial confinement and optical stimuli and design new functional systems by combining individual structures with well controlled properties into 2D and 3D arrays.
Bound states in the continuum (BICs) represent a theoretically interesting way of field localization, which contradicts the conventional wisdom of bound states with energies solely outside the continuum of free states. BICs offer a number of interesting applications; for example, in photonics, BICs enable development of sensitive nanostructures with significant reduction of radiation leakage [1,2]. The project will focus on theoretical analysis and physical understanding of the operation of photonic waveguide structures supporting the propagation of a selected type of BIC. We assume the design and subsequent systematic research of selected photonic waveguide structures that resemble a lattice investigated in Ref. 3 and support the so-called symmetry protected BIC. The student will perform simulations with the aim to confirm the existence of the assumed BICs. Subsequently, the behavior of BICs will be investigated, and structural parameters will be optimized in order to achieve the required properties. [1] K. Koshelev, A. Bogdanov, and Y. Kivshar, “Engineering with Bound States in the Continuum,” Opt. Photonics News, vol. 31, no. 1, p. 38, 2020 [2] S. I. Azzam and A. V. Kildishev, “Photonic Bound States in the Continuum: From Basics to Applications,” Adv. Opt. Mater., vol. 9, no. 1, pp. 16–24, 2021 [3] Y. Plotnik et al., “Experimental observation of optical bound states in the continuum,” Phys. Rev. Lett., vol. 107, no. 18, pp. 28–31, 2011
SiC provides several advantages over silicon in semiconductor applications: 10x higher dielectric breakdown field strength, 2x higher electron saturation velocity, 3x higher energy band gap, and 3x higher thermal conductivity. The drawbacks are the SiC wafer cost and availability. Thus, key improvements and innovations are needed in SiC surface polishing, which is extremely difficult due to its high hardness and chemical and thermal stability. One of the promising techniques used in the development of SiC polishing is plasma etching. This thesis aims to deepen the understanding of how various plasma discharges interact with the SiC surface to propose optimized processes for industrial applications. Thus, the Ph.D. candidate will collaborate closely with the Czech branch of ONSEMI in Rožnov. The SiC reactive ion etching (RIE) will be investigated in a radio frequency (RF) inductively coupled plasma (ICP) in which the processed wafer can be biased by RF or LF (low frequency) voltage. The etching and polishing processes will be influenced by the choice of working gases (e.g., Ar, oxygen, SF6) and the variations of the ion energy distribution function. Basic research on the ion interaction with the SiC surface will also use reactive ion beam etching (RIBE), in which the ion energy is precisely defined by its accelerating voltage, and it is also possible to vary the angle of incidence of the ions by tilting the substrate. Surface conditions will be analyzed regarding roughness and depth of the damaged layer by, e.g., atomic force microscopy (AFM), ellipsometry, optical Raman or fluorescence microscopy, surface composition, and crystallinity analyses. The epitaxial growth of SiC will test surface quality.
Tutor: Zajíčková Lenka, doc. Mgr., Ph.D.
Plasma treatment and plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition are highly efficient technologies for the modification of polymer surfaces because the processes take advantage of a highly reactive plasma environment, enabling low processing temperatures. The technologies are dry and, therefore, belong to ecological alternatives to chemical modification of surfaces that require large amounts of liquid chemicals. However, the complexity of plasma-surface interactions hinders the entire understanding and optimization of the processes. The thesis aims to improve the knowledge base for the plasma treatment of polymers by atmospheric pressure plasma jets. One of the tasks will be to understand the factors influencing the strength of the adhesive joints of plasma-treated polymers, such as polypropylene, by combining several surface characterization methods. Other tasks are related to the plasma activation of hybrid polymer composites and hydrogels.
Low energy ion scattering (LEIS) is an extremely surface-sensitive technique that can quantitatively analyse the outermost atomic layer of a material. The only element that cannot be evaluated directly by this technique is hydrogen since it is lighter than the projectiles of noble gas ions used in LEIS. The surfaces of the solid-state materials are often terminated by hydroxyl groups (-OH). This is particularly true of glass materials. The flat panel displays (FPDs) found in cell phones, displays, electronics, and computers are a crucial part of modern technology. A higher resolution of the FPDs can be achieved by taking full control of the glass surfaces used in this technology. Surface hydroxyls influence the FPDs technology and performance of FPDs. It is difficult to characterise the hydroxyl groups with selective sensitivity to the top atomic layer by standard methods. The novel tag-and-count approach for quantifying hydroxyl (consequently surface silanol) densities is developing in our collaboration with Brigham Young University (USA) and Corning Corporation (USA). The first successful results were published in Applied Surface Science (please see for more information). The hydroxyls are selectively marked by Zn atoms during Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD). The marked (tagged) groups are then analysed (quantified) by HS-LEIS harvesting the extreme surface sensitivity of the technique. The proposed topic for PhD study will continue this promising research and collaboration with BYU. The applicant (student) will be involved in both, the tagging technology done in USA and LEIS analysis in Ceitec BUT. For reference see for example: • Tahereh G. Avval, Stanislav Průša, Cody V. Cushman, Grant T. Hodges, Sarah Fearn, Seong H. Kim, Jan Čechal, Elena Vaníčkova, Pavel Bábík, Tomáš Šikola, Hidde H. Brongersma, Matthew R. Linford, A tag-and-count approach for quantifying surface silanol densities on fused silica based on atomic layer deposition and high-sensitivity low-energy ion scattering, Applied Surface Science 607 (2023), https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apsusc.2022.154551 • S. Průša, P. Procházka, P. Bábor, T. Šikola, R. ter Veen, M. Fartmann, T. Grehl, P. Brüner, D. Roth, P. Bauer, H.H. Brongersma, Highly Sensitive Detection of Surface and Intercalated Impurities in Graphene by LEIS, Langmuir 31 (35) (2015) 9628–9635, https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.langmuir.5b01935 • S. Průša, M.R. Linford, E. Vaníčkova, P. Bábík, J.W. Pinder, T. Šikola, H. H. Brongersma, A Practical Guide to Interpreting Low Energy Ion Scattering (LEIS) Spectra, Appl. Surf. Sci. (2023) 158793, https://doi.org/10.1016/j. apsusc.2023.158793
The rapid improvements in the instrumentation of electron microscopy and spectroscopy enable us to perform measurements with unprecedented accuracy approaching the quantum limits. To fully utilise the new possibilities, the development of effective procedures to obtain and analyse data is required. In this project, a PhD candidate will theoretically study the measurement and estimation process in several microscopical and spectroscopical techniques and propose how to optimise them. To this end, it is essential to employ adaptive algorithms that consider the outcomes of previous measurements.
The use of quantum materials for the preparation of supercapacitors. The candidate will gain experience with quantum materials, various technologies for the preparation of quantum nanomaterials, their characterization, and the preparation of supercapacitors with high efficiency. Supervisor is a Highly Cited Researcher. More at www.pumera.org, more info about the group at www.energy.ceitec.cz. Part of the PhD is training on high tech devices, see www.nano.ceitec.cz
The topic is focused on development of numerical methods for rigorous simulation of electromagnetic wave propagation in arbitrary inhomogeneous media. Namely, we assume investigation of the techniques based on the expansion into plane waves and/or eigenmodes in combination with perturbation techniques. Developed techniques will applied to modeling of light scattering by selected biological samples. Requirements: - knowledge in fields of electrodynamics and optics corresponding to undergraduate courses - basic ability to write computer code, preferably in Matlab.
The self-assembly process of chiral molecules on surfaces presents a fundamental aspect in enantioselective catalysis and chiral separations. Whereas some promising chiral systems have already been described in the literature, the self-assembly process, layers transformation, and surface dynamics remain unexplored. The goal of the Ph.D. is to study and understand molecular diffusion, adsorption kinetics, and the mechanisms driving homochiral domain formation. The molecular systems will be studied under ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) conditions by a unique combination of surface science techniques employing mainly low energy electron microscopy (LEEM), scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS).
Tutor: Procházka Pavel, Ing., Ph.D.
While additive manufacturing of polymers, has become increasingly popular for design studies, rapid prototyping and the production of noncritical spare parts, its application in structurally loaded components is still scarce. One of the reasons for this might be skepticism of engineers due to the lack of knowledge regarding the expected lifetime and reliability as well as knowledge to failure mechanisms. Therefore presented work will be focused on fatigue damage of additively manufactured polymer materials, experimental testing of such materials as well as on numerical modeling of fatigue damage and fatigue crack propagation. This work will be solved in close cooperation with PCCL- Polymer Competence Center in Leoben.
Tutor: Hutař Pavel, prof. Ing., Ph.D.
The doctoral thesis will deal with research in the field of catalytic reactions using analytical methods capable of monitoring reactions in real-time. The reactions will be studied by various analytical methods such as UHV-SEM, E-SEM, MS, SIMS etc. aiming to better understand the mechanism of catalytic reactions on different types of surfaces (crystals, nanoparticles) and in a wide range of reaction pressures. In the first phase, the oxidation of carbon monoxide and subsequently other oxidation or reduction reactions important in technical practice will be studied. The work will also include the development of new methods and devices enabling real-time observation under various experimental conditions.
Magnesium and titanium alloys are important structural materials in hi-tech applications such as aerospace or medical industry because of their superior combination of low density, mechanical strength, corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. Nowadays, with the boom of additive manufacturing technologies, material properties need to be specifically designed for particular applications. Therefore, it is necessary to completely understand the processes that drive the behaviour of materials. The magnesium and titanium alloys have an HCP crystal lattice. Such atomic ordering resulting in a complex plastic deformation mechanism, including slip and twinning. Studying these phenomena is challenging as they combine a wide range of temporal and spatial scales from the atomic level to material grain size. The thesis focuses on investigating plastic slip and twinning under complex loading conditions at the micro level and suggesting ways of controlling these processes to achieve the required macroscopic mechanical properties. The analysis will be based on the combination of theoretical and experimental approaches. The theoretical part will include numerical simulations based on the finite element method and advanced theories of plasticity, and the experiments will be based on nanoindentation techniques that are able to create complex stress states.
Tutor: Šiška Filip, Dr. Ing., Ph.D.
Demineralization of hard tissues (teeth and bones) is a process in which mineral ions (mainly calcium and phosphate) are released from the hydroxyapatite matrix of the tissue. This can occur naturally due to a disease (tooth decay and osteoporosis) and trauma, or artificially through methods such as acid solutions. Demineralization is also associated with accumulated heavy metals in hard tissues. This thesis will be focused on the analysis of demineralized teeth and bones by Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy. A study of tissues with different demineralization sources, such as heavy metals, caries, or artificial solutions, and a methodology for the early detection of osteoporosis will be the main aims of this thesis.
Tutor: Kaiser Jozef, prof. Ing., Ph.D.
This PhD research aims to establish a comprehensive experimental and theoretical framework for understanding spin-wave dynamics in ferromagnet/superconductor (F/S) hybrid structures and to propose innovative methods for the excitation, manipulation, and detection of spin waves beyond conventional magnonic techniques. A multidisciplinary theoretical approach will be developed, integrating finite-element micromagnetic simulations with advanced phenomenological models based on the Landau-Lifshitz-Gilbert equation for dipole-exchange spin waves and the London equations or Ginzburg-Landau model for superconductivity. This approach will enable the design of F/S hybrid structures with precise functional properties. The research will explore the utilization of stray fields from superconducting patterns to confine and direct spin waves in uniform ferromagnetic layers. Key objectives include the theoretical and numerical investigation of spin-wave couplers for non-reciprocal transmission and reflection, as well as graded-index structures to control spin-wave refraction. Experimental validation will involve prototype devices tested at microwave frequencies up to 50 GHz, vector magnetic fields up to 9 T, and He temperatures down to 1.6 K. The outcomes are expected to significantly advance the fields of microwave magnetism, superconductivity, and magnon-based quantum technologies.
Holographic incoherent-light-source quantitative phase imaging (HiQPI) is a unique imaging technique developed by our group. It allows obtaining high-quality quantitative phase images of samples, such as living cells, even when they are immersed in a scattering environment. A big challenge for quantitative phase imaging is to achieve super-resolution, as the usual approaches in microscopy are not applicable. Recent calculations, simulations and experiments have shown that in HiQPI it is possible to achieve sub-diffraction resolution (super-resolution) due to partially coherent illumination, which is unique in holographic microscopy. The area of application of quantum Fisher information, allowing to break the classical resolution limit in the case of special types of objects, also remains unexplored. The student will explore various techniques to achieve super-resolution and their utility in HiQPI. Part of the solution to the topic will be a theoretical analysis of each method, a proposal for its implementation in HiQPI and, last but not least, experimental verification on a Q-Phase microscope. The most successful super-resolution technique will then be applied to an experiment with living cells.
The electronic configuration of transition metals, characterized by an incomplete subshell and a readiness to donate cations, allows the production of coordination complexes that are represented by a relatively wide range of oxidation states, and unique chemical and physical properties having a great potential in a new environment friendly and cost-effective energy applications. The doctoral thesis topic will focus on development of green chemistry, mechanochemistry and/or powder metallurgy protocols for synthesis of selected transition metal-based complexes, and study its interaction with various environments, characterization of properties as well as their compaction and sintering into the form of a precursors or targets utilized for thin film deposition technologies. Along the studies, the candidate will have the opportunity to work on a development of chemical syntheses routes and learn a variety of modern materials characterization and manufacturing technologies. Only, highly motivated and collaborative candidates with outstanding track record and with the ambition in progress in chemistry, materials science and mechanical engineering are welcome to submit an application.
Currently there is a big expansion in the development of nanomaterials that find their use in industry. As they become mass spread the risk of leaking into the environment increases and therefore it is necessary to monitor their influence on various ecosystems. Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) is an optical emission method suitable for elemental mapping of large sample surfaces. The information about biodistribution and bioaccumulation of material in the organism is crucial for correct evaluation of its toxic effect. The LIBS method can detect contaminants in plants with sufficient resolution. The goal of this work is to determine bioaccumulation and translocation of selected nanomaterials in plants.
Dynamic Nuclear Polarization (DNP) is a phenomenon, that can enhance greatly the NMR sensitivity (several hundred times at least). There are several mechanisms of DNP, though all of them result from the transferring of electron spin polarization (from special polarizing agents) to nucleus. This process is strongly dependent on the electron spin relaxation of the polarizing agent. However, due to the instrument limitations, the spin dynamics of polarizing agents is studied very poorly at frequencies above 100 GHz, especially at frequencies of 263, 329 and 394 GHz, which correspond to NMR proton frequencies of 400, 500 and 600 MHz, respectively. Usually, the spin relaxation properties are studied using the pulsed method. Unfortunately, the nowadays level of microwave sources at THz frequencies, mostly in terms of output power, does not allow the implementation of the pulsed technique in the wide frequency range. For this reason, the Rapid Scan Electron Spin Resonance (RS-EPR) spectroscopy is the only possible technique for the investigation of spin dynamics at THz frequencies. In this project, PhD student will (i) develop and implement a technique of fast frequency sweeps into the high field/high frequency EPR spectrometer (ii) investigate the spin relaxation processes in different DNP polarizing agents in the wide frequency and temperature ranges.
Topological insulators (TIs), which demonstrate conductor properties at surfaces and behave as insulator in the bulk, present unique quantum state properties. Therefore, we have witnessed enormous research interest on these materials. It is anticipated that TI materials have a great potential to serve as a platform for spintronics due to their spin-locked electronic states, which could open new avenues for spintronic, quantum computing and magnetoelectric device applications. Moreover, interfacing TIs with superconducting layers is predicted to create mysterious physical phenomena, ranging from induced magnetic monopoles to Majorana fermions. The present PhD study aims at i) synthesizing theoretically studied topological insulators and ii) investigating topological superconductors, formed by hybridizing TIs and superconductor materials. TI and superconductor thin films will be fabricated via employing physical vapor deposition processes such as magnetron sputtering, pulsed laser deposition and molecular beam epitaxy. The obtained films will be characterized by X-ray diffraction method, X-ray Photo-electron Spectroscopy (XPS), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and HR (S)TEM and so on. Furthermore, the magnetic properties of the thin films will be examined by Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM). In addition, magneto-transport measurements of these films will be carried out as well.
2D metal-organic frameworks with honeycomb or kagome lattices are predicted to be intrinsic topological insulators. However, the presence of a metal substrate breaks down these properties. In the framework of the Ph.D. project, the candidate will develop protocols for the synthesis of 2D MOFs on graphene substrate under UHV conditions. The goal of the Ph.D. is to prepare 2D metal-organic frameworks (MOF) on intercalated graphene surfaces and explore their topological properties. The MONs will be prepared via self-assembly from molecular precursors and transition metal atoms. Their properties will be investigated by combining surface-sensitive UHV techniques, i.e., low-energy electron microscopy and diffraction, scanning tunneling microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and angle-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy. The goal is to realize the hybrid organic-inorganic material system, describe the growth kinetics to obtain large area MOFs, optimize their structure to display long-range order and tune the Fermi level position by additional adsorbate doping or intercalating. The studies are supported by a running project. (For detailed information, please directly contact Jan Čechal)
Optimizing the structural design of laser gain media is essential to meet the challenging equirements for laser power, beam quality, efficiency, size, and weight. Due to recent progress in ceramic processing, polycrystalline ceramics opened a pathway to new gain media architecture, which was previously impossible with single crystals. This Ph.D. topic will be aimed at developing ceramic composite structures of optical quality based on yttrium-aluminium garnet doped with rare earth elements. Advanced shaping and sintering technologies based on colloidal shaping, including 3D ceramic printing and high-pressure sintering, will be used to prepare laser ceramics. Ceramics will be evaluated in terms of effectiveness and usability in intended laser applications.
Tutor: Trunec Martin, prof. Ing., Dr.
The method of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, which belongs to the group of atomic emission spectroscopy techniques, has been described as one of the most expanding spectroscopic techniques in recent years, especially in the field of biological and medical research. It is a quasi-destructive analytical method with extensive elemental analysis capabilities that can detect macrobiogenic and microbiogenic elements that compose a given animal tissue. The scope of the dissertation is the complete optimization of the soft tissue measurement parameters of the LIBS technique, together with the processing and interpretation of the obtained data. Furthermore, the implementation of an ideal methodology for soft tissue analysis on model samples. Rodent organs, e.g., polycystic mouse kidneys at different developmental stages, will be the focus of the research. Results from LIBS analyses will be complemented by complementary analytical techniques such as ICP-OES, LA-ICP-MS, or standard optical microscopy (histology).
Amphiphilic block copolymers represent a promising group of biomaterials for targeted drug release, as their hydrophilic-hydrophobic structure enables the efficient encapsulation of various bioactive compounds and their controlled release. In addition to physicochemical parameters, the interaction mechanism between the polymer and the drug plays a crucial role in overall effectiveness, influencing the stability, particle size, and biological availability of the resulting formulation. Therefore, this work will focus on a detailed analysis of these interactions and on investigating the stoichiometry and kinetics of polymer–drug association/dissociation, as well as on the comprehensive characterization of the entire system in terms of stability and controlled release, with the aim of designing and optimizing these polymeric systems.
The study will be aimed at design, fabrication, and characterization of resonant plasmonic nano- and micro-structures (“diabolo” antennas, split ring resonators, etc.) providing a significant local enhancement of magnetic components of electromagnetic fields. The structures with resonant properties particularly in the IR and THz will be studied, with respect to their potential applications in relevant spectroscopic methods.
The doctoral thesis will focus on research and development of new analytical approaches in the field of secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) and electron microscopy for the study of nanostructures and their ability to moderate catalytic reactions (CO oxidation, CO2 hydrogenation etc.). The work will focus on the development of new experimental procedures capable of monitoring the composition of the surface and nanostructures during reactions in real-time.
Are you interested in electronics and nano/microtechnologies, but also fascinated with the brain, and motivated to improve medical practice? This project in the field of neuromodulation technologies may be for you. Wireless stimulation devices, powered by tissue-penetrating deep red and infrared light wavelengths, can enable minimally-invasive solutions without wires and interconnects. This project involves fabrication and testing of light-powered neurostimulation, with a focus on maximizing efficiency while reducing the size of devices. The project involves micro and nanofabrication, with a focus on semiconductor materials and electronics, while also involving advanced electrochemical and photoelectrochemical measurements. Collaboration with neuroscientists and participation in animal studies is envisioned as an important aspect of the project. The student can learn to work in-house with invertebrate models for stimulation.
X-ray micro computed tomography is becoming one of the commonly used imaging methods in the fields of developmental biology and other biological disciplines. In the native sample only the mineralised bones are visible in the microCT scan, the visualization of the soft tissues requires the staining of the sample in the solutions of elements with high proton number. When the scans of the same sample in native and stained condition is combined the time-consuming process of segmenting the mineralised bones from the stained dataset can be skipped, this new approach enables much faster method of analysing the complex biological samples. In the scope of this work the optimising of the staining method of soft tissues and co-registration of both stained and native scans of same sample will be performed.
2D materials of functional devices for supercapacitors. Candidate will be trained in 2D materials. Candidate will learn how to use different technologies of 2D materials to achieve desired supercapacitor design. He/she will learn how to prepare high performance supercapacitors.
The dissertation thesis will deal with the development of 3D epitaxial printing using eutectic liquid droplets, which are moved by electron beam (electron tweezers) in the UHV-SEM microscope, developed in cooperation with TESCAN. During the movement, the gold-containing droplet is saturated with germanium (silicon) atoms, resulting in epitaxial deposition of the semiconductor at the droplet location. The movement of the droplet and thus also the "print" location of the semiconductor can be controlled programmatically. Part of the work will be optimization of this process including its real-time monitoring using UHV-SEM microscope.
3D printing for devices for hydrogen evolution. Candidate will be trained in 3D printing. Candidate will learn how to use different technologies of 3D printing to achieve desired water electrolyzer design. He/she will learn how to prepare high performance electrolyzers for hydrogen evolution.
3D printing of functional devices for supercapacitors. Candidate will be trained in 3D printing. Candidate will learn how to use different technologies of 3D printing to achieve desired supercapacitor design. He/she will learn how to prepare high performance supercapacitors.
The topic deals with 4D printing, i.e. 3D printing where 4 dimensions are time and applications for biomedicine. Supervisor, Prof. Pumera, is highly cited researcher, see www.pumera.org, more info about the group on www.energy.ceitec.cz PhD candidate will be trained to use high end equipment at nano.ceitec.cz
Study plan wasn't generated yet for this year.