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Postdoctoral Research Position in Ferroelectric & Multiferroic Materials – Rice University (ORAMI) 2026 Full Time
The Rice Advanced Materials Institute (ORAMI) at Rice University is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position in the Martin Group under Professor Lane Martin. This is an exciting opportunity for researchers specializing in ferroelectric, multiferroic, and complex oxide thin-film materials to join a world-class materials science research environment.
The position is available on a rolling basis, with a targeted start date between March 2026 and June 2026. The selected candidate will officially be appointed through the Department of Materials Science & NanoEngineering and ORAMI at Rice University in Houston, Texas.
If you are an experimental materials scientist with expertise in thin-film synthesis, ferroelectric materials, epitaxial growth, and advanced characterization techniques, this postdoctoral opportunity offers an excellent platform for academic and professional growth.
About Rice Advanced Materials Institute (ORAMI)
The Rice Advanced Materials Institute (ORAMI) is a multidisciplinary research hub at Rice University focused on advancing next-generation materials for applications in electronics, energy, sensing, and communications. ORAMI brings together experts in materials science, nanoengineering, physics, and chemistry to develop transformative materials solutions.
The Martin Group is internationally recognized for its pioneering work in ferroelectric and multiferroic thin films, complex oxides, nitrides, and functional materials with tunable properties.
Position Overview – Postdoctoral Researcher
Position Title: Postdoctoral Research Associate
Institution: Rice University
Department: Materials Science & NanoEngineering
Institute: Rice Advanced Materials Institute (ORAMI)
Supervisor: Prof. Lane Martin
Location: Houston, Texas, USA
Start Date: As soon as possible (Target: March–June 2026)
Number of Positions: One (1)
Application Review: Rolling basis
Research Focus: Exploring and Understanding Ferroelectric/Multiferroic Materials
Thin-film ferroelectric and multiferroic materials have long been studied for their remarkable functional properties. However, they are now positioned to make a major impact in next-generation technologies, including:
- Logic and memory devices
- Advanced sensing and actuation systems
- Energy transduction and conversion
- High-frequency communications
- Smart materials engineering
- High-energy-density storage systems
The selected postdoctoral researcher will contribute to developing a fundamental and comprehensive understanding of polar order engineering, energy landscapes, and polarization dynamics in:
- Epitaxial ferroelectric thin films
- Relaxor and antiferroelectric materials
- Complex oxides and nitrides
- Novel emerging material phases
The ultimate goal is to overcome long-standing performance limitations in dielectric, piezoelectric, pyroelectric, and multiferroic materials.
Core Research Responsibilities
The postdoctoral researcher will lead experimental efforts involving:
1. Thin-Film Synthesis & Processing
- Growth of epitaxial complex oxide and nitride thin films
- Development of ferroelectric and multiferroic materials
- Fabrication of thin-film heterostructures
2. Advanced Characterization
- Structural characterization (XRD, TEM, AFM)
- Chemical analysis techniques
- Electrical and dielectric property measurement
- High-frequency and temperature-dependent studies
3. Materials & Device Testing
- Dielectric tunability testing
- Electromechanical response analysis
- Polarization rotation studies
- Energy storage capacity evaluation
4. Collaboration & Leadership
- Work closely with graduate students and fellow postdocs
- Coordinate with international collaborators
- Support research reporting and funding requirements
- Publish high-impact peer-reviewed journal papers
- Present research findings at conferences
- Research Goals & Application Impact
This project aims to develop materials with:
- Large electromechanical responses at high frequencies
- Temperature-stable dielectric properties
- High susceptibility at extreme temperature ranges
- Novel tunability across large frequency ranges
- Smart material responses to specific stimuli
- Enhanced energy storage capabilities
The candidate’s work will bridge the gap between fundamental materials physics and real-world technological applications.
Desired Skills & Experience
Rice University is seeking experimental candidates with expertise in:
Required Background
- PhD in Materials Science, Physics, Engineering, or related field
- Strong research experience in solid-state materials
- Preferred Technical Experience
- Complex oxide/nitride thin-film synthesis
- Epitaxial growth techniques (e.g., PLD, MBE, sputtering)
- Structural and electrical characterization
- Device fabrication and testing
- Ferroelectric/multiferroic materials research
Additional Strengths
Publication record in peer-reviewed journals
Experience working in collaborative research environments
Strong presentation and communication skills
Ability to independently lead experimental research
Why Join Rice University?
Rice University is consistently ranked among the top research institutions in the United States. Benefits of joining ORAMI and the Martin Group include:
Access to cutting-edge research facilities
Collaboration with leading global researchers
Opportunities for high-impact publications
Career development in academia or industry
Exposure to next-generation materials innovation
Houston also provides a vibrant academic and research ecosystem, with strong connections to industry and national laboratories.
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Application Process – How to Apply
Interested candidates must email the following materials to:
📧 Theresa Cisneros
Email: tac6@rice.edu
Subject Line: “Candidate for Postdoctoral Position”
Required Documents:
- One-page cover letter
- Statement of interest
- Justification of qualifications and experience
- Full CV (PDF format)
- List of 2 references
- Names
- Contact information
Review Process:
- Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
- Qualified candidates will be invited for a Zoom interview.
- Candidates will present a short summary of recent research work.
- A small search committee will review applications and attend interviews.
- Early applications are strongly encouraged.
Frequently Asked Questions (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the start date for the Rice University postdoctoral position?
The position targets a start date between March 2026 and June 2026, though earlier start dates may be possible.
Where is the postdoctoral position located?
The role is based at Rice University in Houston, Texas, within the Department of Materials Science & NanoEngineering and ORAMI.
What materials research focus is required?
The position focuses on ferroelectric, multiferroic, complex oxide, and nitride thin films, including epitaxial growth and advanced characterization.
How do I apply for the Rice University postdoc?
Email your cover letter, CV (PDF), and two references to tac6@rice.edu with the subject line “Candidate for Postdoctoral Position.”
Is the application deadline fixed?
No, applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
What experience is preferred for this postdoctoral role?
Experience in thin-film synthesis, epitaxial growth, ferroelectric materials research, and advanced materials characterization is preferred.
Final Thoughts
The Postdoctoral Research Position at Rice University (ORAMI) offers an exceptional opportunity for researchers passionate about ferroelectric and multiferroic materials. With access to cutting-edge laboratories, international collaborations, and strong institutional support, this role provides a powerful platform for advancing your research career.
If you are ready to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries in thin-film materials science and device engineering, apply today and take the next step in your postdoctoral journey.