PhotoSeebeck and photothermoelectric properties of low-dimensional semiconductors

The project merges the knowhow of two experimental groups of the Physics department, the thermal properties of nanoscale materials group (GTNaM) and the Optics group. The research combines expertise in thermal transport and thermoelectricity in low-dimensional solids together with polarimetry and optics instrumentation.

The PhD candidate will investigate light–matter interactions in these systems, aiming to uncover photothermoelectric effects (photo-Seebeck) and clarify the role of photocarriers in modulating Seebeck response under strong thermal gradients. To enable such studies, micro- and nanofabricated devices will be developed using clean-room facilities in collaboration with IMB-CNM and ICN2 partners, integrating advanced architectures at the nanoscale.

The experimental program will rely on cutting-edge tools, including nanoscale electrothermal techniques. Beyond fundamental understanding, the project will contribute to new strategies for efficient energy harvesting and sensing through optoelectronic conversion. By bridging nanoscale heat transport with functional device concepts, the research aims to position 2D chalcogenides and low-dimensional semiconductors materials as central players in energy-efficient, multifunctional technologies for next-generation sensing and harvesting devices.

The candidate must have a strong background in materials science, solid-state physics and optics instrumentation, ideally with knowledge of advanced and 2D materials. Experience or strong interest in materials characterization, including structural, optothermal, electrothermal and thermoelectric techniques, is highly valued.

Familiarity with laser instrumentation, clean-room fabrication and related methods will be considered an advantage. Proficiency in instrumentation, data analysis, basic modelling and scientific communication is required to design experiments, interpret results and disseminate findings. Curiosity, adaptability, initiative and problem-solving skills are essential to explore nanoscale heat transport, energy conversion and light–matter interactions beyond established models.

The project demands independent learning and effective collaboration in a multidisciplinary environment where new methods must be developed to advance energy-efficient technologies.

GTNaM investigates thermal, electrical, and thermoelectric properties of materials in thin films, nanowires, 2D systems, and nanostructures, with emphasis on nanoscale heat transport and energy conversion. Our research spans organic and inorganic systems, including semiconductors, 2D and amorphous materials, using both custom-built and advanced facilities. Sustainability and energy efficiency drive our work, connecting fundamental physics with technologies for next-generation information processing.

The Optics Group at UAB focuses on image processing, surface metrology, and liquid crystal applications, with expertise in polarimetry and instrument development. We build novel optical tools using liquid crystal panels and conical refraction, applied in industry, biomedicine, and materials characterization. Our contributions have advanced tissue visualization and recognition through depolarizing observables and machine learning models, and improved the study of chiral samples.