Research Assistant - Electronic structure and quantum properties of two-dimensional materials and related heterostructures (Open)

This Research Assistant position is linked to the project Artificial Quantum Matter: From 2D Materials to Spin Lattice Systems (AQM-2MSLS), funded by the BBVA Foundation (Fundamentos 2024). The project develops theoretical and experimental tools to engineer and characterize artificial quantum matter based on two-dimensional (2D) systems, with graphene and related heterostructures at its core.

The candidate will contribute primarily to WP1, which focuses on the electronic properties of twisted and proximity-coupled graphene systems. A central theme of this work package is understanding how periodic interlayer perturbations — whether from a twist angle, a reconstructed substrate, or an adjacent van der Waals layer — modify the low-energy electronic structure of graphene, potentially giving rise to flat bands, correlated phases, or topological features.

Within this framework, the candidate will work on graphene-based van der Waals heterostructures where an adjacent 2D layer modifies the local symmetry and electronic environment of graphene. This connects to broader efforts in the field to understand interface-driven quantum phenomena in layered systems, including heterostructures involving halide-based or perovskite-related compounds, which have recently emerged as a rich platform for studying proximity effects, charge transfer, and symmetry breaking at the 2D limit. The work will involve electronic structure modelling, analysis of spectral properties, and preparation of scientific publications contributing to the project's objectives. The position is based at DIPC (San Sebastián) and will be carried out in close collaboration with the project's theory team.

Candidates should hold a degree in Physics, Materials Science, or a related field, with a strong background in solid-state or condensed matter physics. Experience with the electronic properties of 2D materials or layered heterostructures is particularly valued. Knowledge of density functional theory (DFT) and/or tight-binding approaches is desirable, as is familiarity with graphene physics or halide-based quantum materials. The candidate should have the ability to work independently, contribute to manuscript writing, and communicate results effectively in English.

• Estimated annual gross salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and consistent with our pay scales
• Target start date: 2026/07/01

We provide a highly stimulating research environment, and unique professional career development opportunities.

We offer and promote a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity.

The position is supervised by Dr. Dario Bercioux (DIPC, San Sebastián), theoretical physicist and member of the AQM-2MSLS project team. The project is coordinated by Prof. Francisco Guinea (DIPC & IMDEA Nanociencia, Madrid) and Prof. Iván Brihuega (Universidad Autónoma de Madrid), and involves six research groups with complementary theoretical and experimental expertise in two-dimensional materials, artificial lattices, and quantum simulation. The team maintains active international collaborations with groups at Radboud University, Utrecht University, and the Université Grenoble Alpes/CNRS.

Interested candidates should submit an updated CV and a brief statement of interest to the following application email below. 

Reference letters are welcome but not indispensable.

The reference of the specific opening to which the candidate is applying should be stated in the subject line, and the application must be received before the application deadline.

Although candidates are welcome to contact the project supervisors to know further details about the proposed research activity, please be aware that the application will be evaluated only if it is submitted directly to the email address listed below as application email.

• Reference: 2026/24
• Application deadline: 2026/05/19
• Application email: jobs.research@dipc.org

Applications received by the deadline will be evaluated by a Committee designed by the DIPC board on the basis of the following criteria:

• CV of the candidate (60%)
• Adequacy of the candidate’s scientific background to the project (20%)
• Reference letters (10%)
• Other: Diversity in gender, race, nationality, etc. (10%)

Evaluation results will be communicated to the candidates soon after. Positions will only be filled if qualified candidates are found.

The DIPC may revoke its decision if the candidate fails to join by the appointed time, in which case the position will be awarded to the candidate with the next highest score, provided it is above 50 (out of 100).

However, the selected candidate may keep the position if, in the opinion of the Selection Committee, the candidate duly justifies the reasons why he or she cannot join before the specified deadline, and as long as the project allows it.

This contract is part of the grant ‘Artificial Quantum Matter: From 2D Materials to Spin Lattice System’ funded by the BBVA Foundation's 2024 Fundamentals Programme.