Can we create new electronic phases and unique material properties by mechanically reshaping the crystal lattice of a 2D quantum material?

We are looking for a PhD candidate to join us at BCMaterials (Leioa/Bilbao, Spain) for a research project co-supervised by S. Lucarini and myself, R. Calvo. https://www.bcmaterials.net/en/join-us

Mechanical deformation changes atomic distances, bond angles and crystal symmetry, providing a powerful way to modify the electronic, optical and magnetic properties of 2D materials. Rather than treating strain simply as an external perturbation, our aim is to use it as a mechanism for inducing and controlling new states that are not present in the undeformed lattice, enabling the emergence of new phases and unique material properties.

The goal of the project is to develop new methods to generate and control strain in 2D materials: designing how an applied mechanical deformation is transferred into a desired strain state, and experimentally exploring the physical properties that emerge.

The PhD will combine





? 2D materials and nanodevices

? Development of new strain-engineering approaches

? Optical and electrical characterization and data analysis

? Finite-element multiphysics simulations

We welcome candidates from Physics, Materials Science, Engineering or related fields. Previous experience with 2D materials experiments, FEM/multiphysics modelling, instrumentation or scientific programming is a plus, but experience in all of these areas is not required.

? Application deadline: 25 September 2026

Applications, including a CV, motivation letter and reference letters, can be submitted through the BCMaterials Join Us website: https://www.bcmaterials.net/en/join-us, under Ref. 2026-17 , “Predoctoral Position in the Electronic Properties of Two-Dimensional Materials under Controlled Deformation”.

Please share with anyone who might be interested!

📌 ? PhD position | Strain Engineering Quantum 2D Materials (Bilbao)
🏢 BCMATERIALS, BASQUE CENTER FOR MATERIALS, APPLICATIONS AND NANOSTRUCTURES
📍 Bilbao