PhD position in Physics - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The Division of Synchrotron Radiation Research (http://www.sljus.lu.se) is a part of the Physics Department and has more than 50 employees. The main focus of the research is experimental studies of electronic, structural and chemical properties of materials. 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

PhD studies at the division of synchrotron radiation physics. The applicant will investigate thin ordered porous oxide films of electrochemically anodized aluminum, and deposition of material in the pores, focusing on new materials for gas or electrocatalysis. The overall objective is an improved structural understanding and functionality of nanostructures made using the porous oxide structure. The division of synchrotron radiation physics develop and use new experimental techniques for material science. The studies will mainly be carried out with the help of diffraction and spectroscopy at synchrotron radiation sources in Europe and in the USA, but also laboratory work at our local laboratories at the division of synchrotron radiation physics. The main task for the doctoral student will be to conduct research education which includes work with research but also to master graduate courses.

Entry requirements

A formal requirement for doctoral studies in physics is:

• have completed courses of at least 240 credits, of which at least 60 credits are from second-cycle courses, or have acquired largely equivalent knowledge in some other way, in Sweden or abroad
• 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:

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.

Previous experience of synchrotron radiation based diffraction methods, scanning electron microscopy and scanning probe microscopy is merit. Basic knowledge in surface physics / surface chemistry is an advantage. Basic knowledge in electrochemistry and electrodeposition is an advantage. Experience with programming using Matlab / C ++, python or equivalent is an advantage.

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.

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.