Doctoral student in Physics with focus on experimental quantum 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. Lund Nano Lab is a central key facility for fabrication of material and devices on the nanoscale. The division is also heavily involved in the undergraduate education, especially within the “Engineering Nanoscience” program.

Through our research on one-dimensional semiconductor structures, so-called nanowires, we investigate new or improved device concepts in areas such as electronics, optics and energy harvesting. The structures also have strong relevance for the novel research field of Quantum Technologies; inside a nanowire, it is possible to create artificial atoms and molecules, whose properties and states can be studied and controlled. The electron spin is one example of such a state, and could serve as information in a quantum computer.

Project 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 investigation of electron transport in coupled quantum dots (artificial molecules) and nanowires, developed through collaborations in a larger project. Here we wish to explore the physics of quasiparticles that appear when very well defined molecular states couple to superconducting materials, and how quantum dots can be used to split Cooper-pairs in a controlled way. Another goal is to be able to study how electron spins couple to photons in superconducting resonance circuits. The project primarily involves basic/fundamental research, but has strong ties to future concepts for quantum computing and quantum technologies.

More information can be found here: www.ftf.lth.se and www.nano.lu.se/claes-thelander

Work duties

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%).

You are expected to be an active member of the research group and to participate in meetings and seminars. The position is part of a larger project where you will work together with researchers who develop the underlying structures, where your role will primarily 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.

Admission requirements

A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if he or she:

• 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 he or she 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 physics or an associated field, or a Master’s degree in physics or an associated field.

Additional requirements:

• Very good oral and written proficiency in 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 the thesis project and the subject of the study.
2. An assessment of ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems.
3. Written and oral communication skills
4. Other experience relevant to postgraduate studies, such as professional experience.

Other assessment criteria (desired merits)

• Experience in electrical measurements of quantum mechanical phenomena in nanostructures, ideally through a project with scope corresponding to a Bachelor/Master thesis project, is highly desired.
• 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.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through his or her experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programme.

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 must 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.). The applicant is also required to answer the job specific questions when submitting the application.