PhD position in physics: Nanostructure Dynamics at the atomic scale - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The Division of Synchrotron Radiation Research (www.sljus.lu.se) has during recent years been the fastest growing part of the Physics Department, with now more than 40 employees. The main focus of the research is experimental studies of electronic, structural, and chemical properties of materials, especially nanostructures. At the division we use and develop a wide range of synchrotron and lab based techniques, such as X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy/imaging and X-ray diffraction/imaging. We also host Sweden's largest facility for scanning probe microscopy).

Job assignment

Within this project, the PhD candidate will use and develop scanning probe microscopy – including both scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). He/she will investigate nanostructure surface and interface dynamics from microns to the atomic scale and from seconds to attoseconds. An emphasis will be on studies of atomic scale dynamics due to either electrical operation in nanodevice configurations or excitation by advanced light sources such as ultra fast lasers and synchrotron sources. A broad range of nanostructures will be studied, however a focus will be on 0D, 1D and 2D semiconductor materials with potential novel applications in renewable energy and computation. This work will be embedded in the NanoLund (www.nano.lu.se) Center for Nanoscience, a world-leading research center that involves more than 250 scientists from various disciplines working within nanoscience and nanotechnology.

The research group has access to five fully functioning ultrahigh vacuum STM/AFM systems, several of which are equipped with electrical contacts for in-situ studies of electronic devices and one (newly acquired) also operate at below 10K. In addition, experiments will be performed at the MAX IV Laboratory in Lund, the world’s most brilliant synchrotron facility (www.maxiv.lu.se), and at ultra fast femto/attosecond laser facilities within Lund Laser Center (www.llc.lu.se). Finally, experiments will include the use of a variety of other widely used nanoscience characterization and fabrication techniques.

The successful candidate is expected to use existing equipment and develop novel approaches to explore nanostructure surface and device dynamics to the atomic scale, even under operational conditions or during surface modification. The work will be performed in collaboration with several other researchers at the department. The main task for the doctoral student will be to conduct research education, which includes work with research, but also to master graduate courses. Participation in several PhD schools (e.g. on nanoscience or advanced microscopy) is offered.

Entry requirements

A formal requirement for doctoral studies in physics is:

• a university degree on advanced level within a related field, such as a Master's degree in physics, nanoscience or equivalent, or
• substantial advanced course work at the Master level, or comparable, including an independent research project.

Furthermore, the acceptance is based on the estimated ability to accomplish postgraduate studies.

Other requirements:

Good knowledge in spoken and written English is a requirement.

Basis of assessment

Selection to postgraduate studies is based on the expected ability to perform well in the studies. The evaluation of the ability to perform well is based primarily on the results of studies at the basic and advanced levels, in particular:

1. Knowledge and skills relevant to postgraduate studies within the research area, such as a broad and thorough preparation in physics. This can be documented by appended documents.
2. Estimated ability to work independently and the ability to formulate and solve scientific questions. This ability can be established, for example, based on undergraduate research experiences, a Master's thesis or in a discussion of scientific problems during a possible interview.
3. Skills in written and oral communication.
4. Other experience relevant to postgraduate studies, such as professional experience.

Other assessment criteria:

We consider good cooperation ability, drive, and independent work ability as positive personal attributes, as well as creativity and a curious mind.

For the present position, experience with high resolution STM or surface studies of semiconductors is considered of value. The ability for skillful laboratory work is important, including advanced microscopy and ultrahigh vacuum technology. Experience in working at synchrotron radiation facilities, femtosecond lasers and in clean-room environments is of additional benefit. Experience in the scientific interaction with researchers from other disciplines and from other countries is important.

Terms of employment

A PhD position is an employment with the main duty to be engaged in PhD studies according to the study plan. The duration of PhD studies is 4 years full time studies. In addition, those appointed to doctoral student position may be required to work with educational tasks, research, and technical/administrative duties at a level of at most 20% of full time. The position is then extended correspondingly, however not longer than corresponding to 5 years full time employment. PhD positions are subject to special regulations. These can be found in the Swedish Higher Education Ordinance (SFS 1993:100, ch. 5, with updates). Only those who are or have been admitted to PhD-studies may be appointed to PhD position.

Application procedure

Apply online! Applications must contain a covering letter in which applicants describe themselves and their particular research interests. Applications must also include a CV, a copy of the applicant’s Master’s thesis (or a summary text if the thesis is not yet completed), contact details of at least two references, copies of grade certificates, and any other documents that the applicant wishes to refer to.

Remarks

We ask companies dealing with advertising job openings and staffing companies to refrain from seeking contact with us since we are bound by contracts in the governmental system.

The English version of this announcement is an interpretation of national formalities expressed in the Swedish text. In case of uncertainties, the Swedish text applies.