Postdoctoral Researcher in Photomemristor Arrays for Optogenetic-Neuromorphic Interfaces

About the role

Aalto University's Department of Applied Physics, within the Nanomagnetism and Spintronics group led by Prof. Sebastiaan van Dijken, is looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher to work on active interfaces between biological neurons and neuromorphic electronic devices. The project is funded by the Research Council of Finland and runs in collaboration with researchers at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. It focuses on photomemristor arrays for neural imaging in bio-machine hybrid systems, with a focus on strong photoresponsivity, suitable wavelength response and biocompatibility.

Key responsibilities

• Investigate different material candidates and device structures for photomemristor arrays.
• Integrate the most promising ones into a bio-hybrid system in which neuronal signals are processed in a closed loop.
• Work in a lab equipped with thin-film growth and electronic/optoelectronic characterization equipment, with full access to the OtaNano research infrastructure, including the Micronova cleanroom and the Nanomicroscopy Center.

Required profile

• PhD in physics, materials science, electrical engineering or a related field.
• Strong track record in materials science, electrical engineering and/or nanofabrication.
• Excellent written and spoken English and the ability to communicate research clearly (publications, talks).
• Motivation to conduct research at an international level and publish in high-impact venues.
• Finnish is not required.

What we offer

• 2-year postdoctoral contract, gross monthly salary of 4,229.48 to 4,649.25 EUR depending on experience.
• Access to Aalto's occupational healthcare.
• An annual working-time framework of 1,612 hours.
• Support for professional development, including staff training and development programs.
• A flexible, modern working culture that values work-life balance and wellbeing.

Applications are submitted as a single PDF in English through the university's recruitment portal, with a letter of motivation, CV with publications, degree certificates and transcripts, and contact details for two referees. The deadline is 31 October 2026, with rolling review.