Post-doctoral position in theory of topological superconductivity - 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.

The division of Solid State Physics and NanoLund are at the forefront of research on semiconductor nanowires, including both material growth and characterization, as well as their use in different devices and in, for example, fundamental quantum physics experiments. Theoretical research on nanowires and other nanostructures is conducted in close collaboration with the experimental activities. This position is based on a close collaboration with the Center for Quantum Devices (QDev) at University of Copenhagen. More information can be found at: www.ftf.lth.se, www.nano.lth.se, www.qdev.nbi.ku.dk/

Subject description
Topological phases of matter and topological states.  

Work duties
The main duties involved in a post-doctoral position is to conduct research. Teaching may also be included, but up to no more than 20% of working hours. The position shall include 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.

This specific project is within condensed matter theory and is focused on new physics and phenomenology of nonlocal and nonabelian topological systems. It is a part of a newly established research program sponsored by an ERC Synergy grant that involves advanced experimental and theoretical projects working closely together. This gives a unique opportunity for participating in a creative project where theory and experiment together explore new physics. The project is carried out in close collaboration with groups at the nearby (1 hour by train) Center for Quantum Devices, Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen.

The research is on hybrid superconductor-semiconductor structures and the overarching goal of the project is to demonstrate the existence of nonlocal and nonabelian quasiparticles. The experimental groups are led by Ferdinand Kuemmeth and Charles Marcus, the theory groups are led by Karsten Flensberg and Martin Leijnse.

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 research in areas of theoretical condensed matter physics of relevans to the position.

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 with programming and numerical work.
• Very good communication skills.
• Experience from work on the theory of superconductor-semiconductor hybrid system, in particular with a focus topological phases, will be seen as meriting.

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 shall contain:

• a covering letter in which applicants describe themselves and their particular research interests, including contributions to the described research project (maximum 2 pages).
• a CV
• a publication list
• a copy of the applicant’s doctoral 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.

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