PhD-student in physics, within the discipline of nano-optics - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The research at the division of Solid State Physics is focused around different aspects of semiconductor physics, ranging from materials science to quantum physics, to different applications. The PhD work is conducted in close collaboration with Division of Physical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry. The division of Solid State Physics also leads NanoLund, the major interdisciplinary research environment within nanoscience and nanotechnology at Lund University. 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.

For the last fifteen years, the research at the division of solid state physics has focused on one-dimensional semiconductor structure, nanowires. The research has been at the international forefront. So far, our three main areas have been: epitaxial growth of nanowires, fundamental properties studied with transport physics and optical physics, and more applied nanoelectronics. Over that last few years, we have developed the fabrication processes so that we have control over the structural properties of the nanowires on the atomic level, which is the foundation for this project.

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

Work duties
The main task for the doctoral student will be to conduct research education which includes work with research but also to master graduate courses

The focus of the position is optical studies of nanowires with controlled crystal phases. The studies will be concentrated on the interfaces between wurtzite and zincblende, aiming at understanding the electronic structure of electron and exciton gases bound at these interfaces. The materials in question are mainly GaAs and InP. The structures we intend to fabricate are likely to have unique and complicated optical properties. In addition, studies will be performed on quantum wells defined by varying the crystal phase, polytypic quantum wells. To investigate the optical properties of the nanowires, we will use a combination of a number of different techniques with high spectral and spatial resolution. The main techniques are photoluminescence, excitation spectroscopy, selective excitation, Raman scattering, resonant Raman scattering, and spatially resolved cathodoluminescence. It is important that the properties of single nanowires are studied using many different techniques, and that the results are compared when measuring on the same nanowire. The optical properties will be compared with the structural properties, using both scanning and transmission electron microscopy, performed on the optically studied nanowire. Some theoretic calculations will be performed in order to compare with the experimental results. The candidate is expected to establish a close collaboration with crystal growers, electron microscopists and theoreticians within the project.

Admission 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 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:
Very good knowledge in spoken and written English is a requirement.

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:

• 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.
• 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.
• Skills in written and oral communication.
• Other experience relevant to postgraduate studies, such as professional experience.

Other assessment criteria:

• We expect that your undergraduate studies include courses in physics, solid state physics and quantum physics.
• The research is both experimental and theoretical in combination and experience from relevant areas of physics are of special value.
• The ability of skillful laboratory work is essential, including building set-ups,
• as is experience of computing and programming.

Important personal qualities are, beside creativity and a curious mind, the ability to work both independently and in a group with experience in the scientific interaction with researchers. Previous experience in the area, for example as witnessed by a relevant Masters thesis is an asset. The ability of communicating verbally and in writing in English in also 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.

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.). Applicants are also required to answer the job specific questions in the final step of the application process.