PhD student in theory of topological states in nanowires - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The research at the division of Solid State Physics is focused on different aspects of semiconductor physics, ranging from materials science via quantum physics to different applications. The division is at the center of the major interdisciplinary research environment within nanoscience and nanotechnology at Lund University – the Nanometer Structure Consortium at Lund University (nmC@LU). Lund Nano Lab is a central key facility for fabrication of material and devices on the nanoscale. The division is also heavily involved in the undergraduate education, especially within the “Engineering Nanoscience” program.

Research on semiconductor nanowires is an area where the division of Solid State Physics is at the international forefront. The research includes both material growth and characterization of nanowires, as well as their use in different devices and in, for example, fundamental quantum physics experiments. Theoretical research on nanowires is conducted in close collaboration with the experimental activities.

For more information see: www.ftf.lth.se, www.nano.lth.se.

Job assignment

The PhD student will be a part of a large newly established research program with 10 – 15 PhD students and postdocs focused on creating and investigating exotic electronic states in nanowires. The specific PhD position announced here will be focused on theoretical studies of topological states in heterostructured nanowires. The research will involve both numerical and analytical calculations, as well as a close collaboration with experimental groups. Close collaborations also exist with several international theoretical and experimental research groups, for example at the Center for Quantum Devices at the University of Copenhagen.

The PhD studies contain a course part and a scientific project. Teaching on undergraduate level might also be a part of the job.

Admission requirements

A formal requirement for doctoral studies in physics is

• an advanced university degree within a related field, such as a Master's degree in physics or nanotechnology or equivalent, or
• has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded into second cycle or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

A person meets the specific admission requirements if he or she has:

• at least 30 credits of relevance to the subject, including at least 15 second-cycle credits, and a second-cycle degree project of 15 credits of relevance to the field, or
• an MSc in engineering in engineering physics or an associated field, or a Master’s degree in physics or an associated field.
• The student must be judged to have the potential to complete the programme.

Additional requirements: Very good oral and written proficiency in English. Experience from conducting an independent research project. 

Assessment criteria

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 this 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 masters 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.

Desirable Qualifications:

We expect that your undergraduate studies include courses in physics, especially theoretical physics, quantum mechanics, and solid state physics. The research is to a large extent interdisciplinary, and a broad competence profile and experience from other relevant areas of physics and nanoscience is of high value. Theoretical skills are essential, and courses in advanced quantum mechanics for condensed matter systems are highly meriting. An interest in working in close collaboration with experimental researchers is essential. Important personal qualities are, beside creativity and a curious mind, the ability to work both independently and in a group and experience in the scientific interaction with researchers from other disciplines and in other countries. Good knowledge in spoken and written English, and good oral and written communication skills are very important.

Terms of employment

Only those admitted to third cycle studies may be appointed to a doctoral studentship. Third cycle studies at LTH consist of full-time studies for 4 years. A doctoral studentship is a fixed-term employment of a maximum of 5 years (including 20% departmental duties). Doctoral studentships are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), chapter 5, 1-7 §§.

Instructions on how to apply

Applications shall be written in English and include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background. The application must also contain a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).