Available Positions

Postdoctoral Research Position: Surface Science/Nanocluster catalysis

There is an open position for an experimental postdoctoral scholar interested in the research fields of nanocluster catalysis and nanoscale materials design using state-of-the-art surface science techniques and advanced scanning probe microscopies. The successful applicant will utilize UHV-based surface analysis techniques to characterize the mechanisms of metal nanoparticle enhanced chemical reactivity. The project aims to improve the understanding of the processes taking place in nanocluster-catalyzed reactions. Key features that influence catalysis such as nanoparticle size and shape, nanoparticle mobility and ability to modify its structure in the course of a chemical reaction, nanocluster-support interactions, adsorbate mobility, selective active site blocking, catalyst surface poisoning or promoter effects will be studied. Interconnections between directly measurable electronic phenomena and surface chemistry will be established and used to provide insight into catalytic reactions.

We are seeking candidates with experience in Temperature-Programmed Desorption (TPD), Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) in ultrahigh vacuum as well as fundamental knowledge of catalyst-mediated chemical reactions. Expertise in other surface characterization tools including Ultraviolet Photoelectron Spectroscopy (UPS), Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES) and Low Energy Electron Spectroscopy (LEED) is a plus.

Required qualifications include a PhD in Physics, Physical Chemistry, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science.

Interested applicants should send their curriculum vitae and the names and contact information for three references by email to: (PDF format)

Beatriz Roldan Cuenya
Assistant Professor
University of Central Florida
Physics Department
Orlando, FL 32816

E-Mail: roldan@physics.ucf.edu

PhD Position: Surface Science/Nanocluster catalysis

There is one opening available for a PhD student interested in the research fields of Surface Science, Nanoscale materials design and Nano-catalysis in the Department of Physics at the University of Central Florida. The successful applicants will utilize UHV-based surface analysis techniques to characterize the mechanisms of metal nanoparticle enhanced chemical reactivity. The project aims to improve the understanding of the processes taking place in nanocluster-catalyzed reactions. Key features that influence catalysis such as nanoparticle size and shape, nanoparticle mobility and ability to modify its structure in the course of a chemical reaction, nanocluster-support interactions, adsorbate mobility, selective active site blocking, catalyst surface poisoning or promoter effects will be studied.

Interconnections between directly measurable electronic phenomena and surface chemistry will be established and used to provide insight into catalytic reactions. Temperature-Programmed Desorption (TPD), Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Surface Photovoltage Spectroscopy (Kelvin Probe) are among the techniques that will be employed to characterize the changes induced in the metal nanoclusters and their supports, upon gas exposure.

Required qualifications include a Master in Sciences in Physics, Physical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science. Previous experience using UHV surface analysis equipment (XPS, AES, TPD, STM, LEED) instruments would be a significant benefit.

Interested applicants should send their curriculum vitae and the names and contact information for three references by email to: (PDF format)

Beatriz Roldan Cuenya
Assistant Professor
University of Central Florida
Physics Department
Orlando, FL 32816

E-Mail: roldan@physics.ucf.edu