Doctoral student in physics with focus on quantum transport and quantum thermodynamics - 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 division also leads NanoLund, the major interdisciplinary research environment within nanoscience and nanotechnology at Lund University.

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.

More information can be found at: www.ftf.lth.se and www.nano.lth.se

Work duties
The PhD student will become a part of a large ongoing fundamental research project which includes several experimental and theoretical research groups within NanoLund at Lund University. The project aims at exploiting the special properties of nanoscale systems, quantum effects as well as classical fluctuations, for novel concepts in high-efficiency energy conversion and generation. The specific PhD position announced here will focus on theoretical studies of quantum transport in quantum dots and/or one-dimensional nanowires under the effects of external voltages, photons (in the visible range, or in the microwave regime in superconducting cavities), phonons and temperature gradients. Theoretical studies of (quantum) thermodynamic machines might also undertaken. The research will involve both numerical and analytical calculations, and will include close collaborations with experimental groups. There are also close collaborations with several international theoretical and experimental research groups, for example at the Center for Quantum Devices at University of Copenhagen, and the PhD studies might include an exchange with another University.

The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

Admission requirements
A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if the applicant:

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

 A person meets the specific admission requirements if the applicant has

• at least 30 second-cycle credits of relevance to the subject, of which at least 15 credits shall comprise a second-cycle degree project, or
• an MSc in engineering in engineering physics or an associated field, or a Master’s degree in physics or an associated field.

Other requirements:

• Very good knowledge in spoken and written English.

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 master 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 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.
• Experience and ability to work theoretically/mathematically is essential, and courses in advanced quantum mechanics for condensed matter systems are highly meriting.
• Experience from programming and numerical work is considered meriting.
• Important personal qualities are, beside creativity and a curious mind, the ability to work both independently and in a group and the ability to collaborate with researchers from other disciplines and in other countries. 

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.).

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