Summary
The Huff Laboratory at Queen’s University invites applications for MSc positions, focusing on ultra-high vacuum scanning probe microscopy and innovative materials research. This scholarship offers a unique opportunity to explore novel manufacturing strategies and molecular interactions at an atomic level.
- 🧪 Position & Location: MSc research position available at the Department of Chemistry/Physics, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
- 🔬 Lab Focus: Huff Lab specializes in ultra-high vacuum (UHV) scanning probe microscopy (SPM) surface science, emphasizing atomically precise “bottom-up” manufacturing and molecular self-assembly.
- 🛠️ Techniques Used:
• Scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) for imaging atomic/molecular assemblies and electronic properties.
• qPlus atomic force microscopy (AFM) for inter-molecular charge, bond structure, and polarization.
• Tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS) for dynamic molecular interactions and flexibility. - 🧩 Research Areas:
• Self-assembly of N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) molecules on metallic surfaces for semiconductor optimization.
• Low defect density silicon carbide coatings using tetragem molecules for quantum material applications.
• Atomically precise construction of structures using tetragem molecules as building blocks, targeting quantum defect color centers. - 🤝 Collaborations: Work includes partnerships with campus carbon-to-metal coating institute, linking with academic and industrial communities.
- 🚀 Goal: Enable next-generation material production by understanding molecules and surfaces at atomic precision.
Designation
MSc Position
Table
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Department | Department of Chemistry/Physics |
| University | Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada |
| Start Dates | January 1, May 1, or September 2026 |
| Compensation | $29,030 – $40,000/year (based on external scholarships) |
| Duration | Guaranteed for 2 years |
Research Area
- Ultra-high vacuum (UHV) scanning probe microscopy
- Surface molecular self-assembly
- Atomically precise 3D manufacturing strategies
- Material properties examination using advanced microscopy techniques
Location
Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
Eligibility/Qualification
- Required: BSc in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering, or equivalent.
- Ideal (but not mandatory):
- Background in surface science
- Knowledge of solid-state physics and materials properties
- Familiarity with quantum mechanics
- Experience with UHV systems and scanning probe techniques (STM/AFM)
- Programming experience (Python, LabVIEW)
- Strong collaboration and communication skills
Job Description
- Conduct equipment development for STM/AFM/TERS investigations.
- Explore molecular properties, specifically focusing on Tetragems and NHCs.
- Engage in methods development and data analysis.
- Collaborate with academic and industrial partners.
- Prepare research papers, presentations, and publications.
- Maintain and modify ultra-high vacuum systems and hardware.
How to Apply
Applicants should email their CV (including publications) and a one-page document detailing their research interests and motivations for joining the Huff group to taleana.huff@queensu.ca. Indicate three references (names only, letters will be requested later).
Last Date to Apply
- January Intake: December 23, 2025
- May Intake: April 15, 2026
- September Intake: August 1, 2026
This opportunity encourages applications from all qualified individuals and fosters diversity and inclusion in the academic environment.
