FPU2025 - Exploring Strain and Moiré Engineering in Atomically Thin Materials

The 2D Foundry Lab at the Instituto de Ciencia de Materiales de Madrid (ICMM-CSIC) invites motivated candidates to apply for an FPU doctoral fellowship to study the fundamental physics of two-dimensional (2D) materials under controlled strain and twist. The project will focus on single-flake devices of materials such as MoS₂, WSe₂, and 1T-TaS₂, exploring how mechanical deformation and interlayer rotation modify their electronic, optical, and phase-transition properties. Our group has developed unique experimental setups to apply and measure strain in 2D crystals, including bending stages, flexible substrates, and Raman/PL mapping under controlled conditions. The candidate will learn deterministic transfer of 2D layers, microfabrication, and low-temperature electronic/optical characterization. This project is ideal for students passionate about condensed-matter physics and nanoscience, who wish to explore how strain and moiré potentials can be used to engineer new quantum and correlated phenomena in low-dimensional materials.