Postdoctoral fellow in experimental quantum transport physics - 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, and different applications. The division also leads NanoLund, the major interdisciplinary research environment within nanoscience and nanotechnology at Lund University.

Over the last decade, our research within the area of one-dimensional semiconductor structures, so-called nanowires, has been at the international forefront. These structures have shown great potential for use in different types of electronics and optical applications, and represent an important platform in the novel research field of Quantum Technologies. Our research focuses on epitaxial growth of III-V semiconductor nanowires, investigation of fundamental physical, chemical and structural properties, and exploration of their potential device applications. More information can be found here: www.ftf.lth.se  and www.nano.lu.se/claes.thelander

Subject description
The main research topic of the position is studies of quantum mechanical phenomena that emerge in small semiconductor structures at low temperatures. The focus will be on studies of electron and hole transport in coupled quantum dots (artificial molecules) and nanowires, developed through collaborations in the project. Here we wish to explore the physics of quasiparticles that appear when very well defined molecular states couple to superconducting materials. The project primarily involves basic/fundamental research, but has strong ties to future concepts for quantum computing and quantum technologies.

Work duties
The main duties involved in the post-doctoral position is to conduct experimental research on quantum transport, and to expand the knowledge in this field. If the candidate is interested, teaching may also be included, but up to no more than 20% of working hours. The position includes the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning. The postdoctoral fellow is expected to interact with the master students and the PhD students in the research group and contribute to meetings and seminars.

The position is part of a larger project with a purpose to develop and study new types of semiconductor materials and structures based on atomic-level design of nanostructures in all three dimensions. You will work with other researchers who develop the underlying structures, where your role will be to investigate the electronic properties through transport measurements at low temperatures. You are expected to participate in the planning and development of new structures and experiments in close collaboration with experts in semiconductor epitaxy and quantum transport theory.

Qualification requirements
Appointment to a post-doctoral position requires that the applicant has a PhD, or an international degree deemed equivalent to a PhD, within the subject of the position, completed no more than three years before the last date for applications. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.

Additional requirements:

• The subject of the doctorate degree should be physics.
• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Experience with electronic transport measurements at low temperatures focused on nanostructures.

Assessment criteria and other qualifications
This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers. Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

For appointments to a post-doctoral position, the following shall form the assessment criteria:

• A good ability to develop and conduct high quality research.
• Teaching skills. Included within this category are related experiences such as supervision of undergraduate students and training of new equipment users.

Additional assessment criteria:

• Experience in advanced fabrication and characterization of nanostructures.
• Broad knowledge in the fields of semiconductor- and quantum physics, ideally with some experience in simulations and modelling.
• Very good communication skills.
• We are looking for a person who is structured, goal-oriented, dedicated to problem-solving, and has good self-awareness.

The research is to a large extent interdisciplinary, and a broad competence profile and experiences from relevant areas of physics and materials science are of special value. Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

Terms of employment
This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of a maximum of 2 years. The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow”) between Lund University, SACO-S, OFR/S and SEKO, dated 4 September 2008.

Instructions on how to apply
Applications shall be written in English and must include a cover letter (1-2 pages) motivating why you want to conduct research in this field at Lund University, how the research matches your interests and scientific background, and how you would contribute to the research topic.

Please draw up the application in accordance with LTH’s Academic qualifications portfolio – see link below. Upload the application as PDF-files in the recruitment system. Read more: www.lth.se/english/working-at-lth/to-apply-for-academic-positions-at-lth/

If the application is not designed in accordance with the academic qualifications portfolio it shall be compiled into a PDF containing a covering letter in which applicants describe themselves and their particular research interests, including contributions to the described research project (maximum 2 pages). Applications must also include a CV, publication list, a copy of the applicant’s doctoral thesis, contact details of at least two references, copies of grade certificates, and any other documents that the applicant wishes to refer to. Applicants are also required to answer the job specific questions in the final step of the application process.