Postdoctoral Researcher – Perovskite Spiking Neural Networks

Job Description

Organization: BCMaterials – Basque Center for Materials, Applications and Nanostructures
Location: Leioa, Bilbao area, Spain
Position: Postdoctoral Researcher – Perovskite Spiking Neural Networks
Reference Number: 2026-25
Project: SHIFT – Shape-shifting robots with Hybrid Intelligence for Flexible Actuation
Funding Programme: Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Action
Grant Agreement: 101343611
Application Deadline: 22 November 2026

About BCMaterials

BCMaterials (Basque Center for Materials, Applications and Nanostructures) is an autonomous research centre established in June 2012 by Ikerbasque, the Basque Foundation for Science, and the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU).

The centre is part of the Basque Excellence Research Centers (BERC) network. Its mission is to generate knowledge on next-generation materials and translate scientific discoveries into multifunctional solutions and devices for the benefit of society.

Position Overview

BCMaterials is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to contribute to the development of proof-of-principle perovskite spiking neural networks (SNNs) within the SHIFT project, a Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Action scheduled to conclude on 30 November 2030.

SHIFT aims to develop modular, shape-changing robots in which local spiking neural networks process tactile signals and trigger rapid reflexes. BCMaterials leads the perovskite research activities in close collaboration with the neuromorphic team at the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT).

The successful candidate will develop a new technology based on controlling ion migration within the perovskite family of semiconductors and exploiting its influence on charge-recombination processes at device interfaces to achieve self-learning capabilities in the network.

The researcher will be responsible for the complete device-fabrication process, from substrate patterning and thin-film crystal growth to contact deposition. In addition to standard electronic characterisation, the candidate is expected to develop new characterisation protocols to investigate and understand fundamental charge-transfer processes at device interfaces.

This research aims to contribute to a sustainable and recyclable computing platform that can be printed, potentially transforming approaches to electronics design.

Research Objectives

The research will focus on developing perovskite-based neuromorphic devices and integrating them into spiking neural networks. Particular emphasis will be placed on understanding ion-mediated charge-transfer mechanisms and their role in device functionality and self-learning behaviour.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop perovskite neuron and synapse devices.
• Conduct extensive structural and optoelectronic characterisation.
• Investigate ion-mediated charge-transfer processes.
• Analyse the mechanisms underlying the operation of novel devices.
• Integrate the developed devices into perovskite spiking neural networks.

Additional Project Responsibilities

• Coordinate perovskite-related tasks within the embodied inference work package.
• Plan research activities, monitor progress against project deliverables and milestones, and contribute to project reporting.
• Serve as the main point of contact with the neuromorphic engineering team at IIT.
• Establish a common spike encoding and decoding framework for the silicon and perovskite approaches.
• Align device specifications with the overall network design.
• Collaborate with robotics, sensing, and control partners across the consortium.
• Participate in project meetings.
• Prepare and publish scientific manuscripts.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences.
• Maintain research equipment.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to a positive, collaborative research environment.

Candidate Profile

Applicants should hold a doctoral degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related discipline. Candidates whose doctoral thesis has already been submitted in a relevant field may also be considered.

Extensive experience in perovskite device fabrication and characterisation is essential. The ideal candidate will have experience in single-crystal synthesis, thin-film deposition, solar-device preparation, structural and electronic characterisation, and interfacial engineering.

Candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in fundamental charge-transport processes and instrument automation. Programming aptitude is desirable. Proficiency in English and the ability to work in an international, interdisciplinary environment are also required.

Research Environment and Opportunities

The position offers the opportunity to work on an emerging research area combining perovskite materials, neuromorphic engineering, and robotics.

The successful candidate will collaborate with an international research consortium and contribute to the development of novel computing devices for embodied intelligence and shape-changing robotic systems.

BCMaterials provides a stimulating research environment with state-of-the-art infrastructure and professional career-development opportunities. The centre promotes diversity and inclusion and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

Project Duration

The SHIFT project is scheduled to conclude on 30 November 2030. The specific employment start date and individual contract duration are not stated in the vacancy announcement.

Application Procedure

Applicants must submit the following documents in English:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Motivation letter.

Applications must be submitted using the Contact button associated with the relevant vacancy in the BCMaterials Join Us portal.

Applicants will also be required to provide their name and email address for further communication.

Official Application Portal: https://www.bcmaterials.net/en/join-us

Application Deadline: 22 November 2026.