Doctoral student in Physics with focus on theoretical many-body physics - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Mathematical Physics is a common division between the Natural Science and Engineering (LTH) faculties and is part of the Department of Physics. Research is conducted primarily in the field of quantum mechanical many particle physics, which includes theoretical nuclear structure physics, nanometer physics, quantum information, atomic theory and material modeling, with numerous partnerships both internationally and within Lund University.

Work duties
All elements are forged in a series of processes that constitute the nucleosynthesis. However, the calculation of the neutron capture on heavy, exotic nuclei is one of the largest sources of error in the modelling of these nucleosynthesis processes. Some of these nuclei are starting to be produced in new experimental radioactive ion beam facilities around the world, constituting a timely opportunity to impact this research sitting at the intersection of different trends.

The work will consist in the development of models for nuclear structure and reactions, to help guide experiment and discover properties of astrophysical processes such as the nucleosynthesis. The nucleus is modeled as a many-body system with the objective of contributing to the development of a consistent theory of structure and reaction that can be applied to isotopes not yet discovered.

The development will be both analytical formulation and numerical implementation in computational codes for high performance computing. The development of effective Hamiltonian is the starting point of description of nuclei. The project can concern connecting Chiral Effective Field Theory to an effective separable Hamiltonian. Many-body methods used include Hartree-Fock-(Bogolyubov), Green’s functions and Generator Coordinate Method, with also the specific interest in symmetry breaking of quantum fields and projection techniques for the description of deformed nuclei.

There will be considerable scope for the doctoral student to influence both the design of the projects, the degree of analytical or numerical work, and the possibilities for collaboration and travel, based on the doctoral candidate’s ability and interest.

No previous experience in specific many-body methods or their application to the description of the atomic nucleus is necessary, but it is considered a merit.

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 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.

Finally, the student must be judged to have the potential to complete the programme.

Additional requirements:

• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.

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 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

• Previous experience in theoretical physics. Modelling of quantum mechanical many-body systems will consist additional merit.
• Knowledge of concepts from nuclear physics or correlated quantum mechanical systems as well as competence in computational procedures.
• Programming skills.

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 should 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, a copy of the thesis or equivalent or a summary in case the work is not completed and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).

As the first step of the application process in the cover letter answer the job specific questions!

The English version of this announcement is an interpretation of national formalities expressed in the Swedish text. In case of uncertainties, the Swedish text applies.