1-2 Doctoral students in physics with focus on ultrafast laser diagnostics - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The Division of Combustion Physics carries out research with a distinct focus on development of laser spectroscopic techniques for a wide range of applications, such as combustion processes, gasification, catalysis, and creation of nanostructures. Over the last decade the Division has also established a significant research activity in biophotonics, particularly focusing on optical remote sensing techniques. The Division has an extensive network within the Faculty of Engineering (LTH), with other universities, nationally as well as internationally, and with the industry. The Division is since 2001 located in modern premises housed in the Enoch Thulin Laboratory at the Dep. of Physics and there are currently about 60 employees.

Job assignment
There is a great need for sensitive measurement techniques capable to measure on samples located at a distance, i.e. remote sensing techniques. The purpose of the PhD projects is to develop new optical remote sensing concepts based on backward lasing in gas, i.e. a mirrorless laser with a constituent of the surrounding gas as active medium. Two different main concepts will be pursued; 2-photon pumped stimulated emission in atoms and optical filamentation utilizing femtosecond laser pulses. The backward generated signal beam opens up unique possibilities to carry out studies inside facilities and devices with only a single optical port. Furthermore, Coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) will be developed for studies of ultrafast molecular dynamics. The research work is both experimental and theoretical. The experimental part consists of designing and constructing laser/optical setups, carry out scientific studies, analyze measurement data, and documentation. The theoretical part deals with development of theoretical models for simulation of the backward lasing signal.

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 will 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 for third cycle studies in physics 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:

• Good knowledge in spoken and written English.
• Solid theoretical knowledge in optics, lasers, and spectroscopy.
• Good knowledge and experience from programming in Matlab or a similar programming language.

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:

• Theoretical knowledge within the areas laser spectroscopy, atomic- and molecular physics, and non-linear optics, acquired through university courses or other high-level education.
• Practical experience from one or several of the aforementioned areas.
• Knowledge and experience of Coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy (CARS)

We consider good cooperation ability, drive and independent work ability as positive personal attributes.

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 §§.

We intend to employ 1-2 doctoral students

Application procedure
Apply online! Applications must contain a covering letter, which can be written in Swedish or English, in which you describe yourself and your particular research interests. Application must also include a CV, a copy of your 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 you wish to refer to.

You are also required to answer the job specific questions as the first step of the application process.