Doctoral student in Physics on “Ultrafast dynamics of elementary processes in small quantum systems” - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Of particular importance for this position is the Department of Synchrotron Light Research (www.sljus.lu.se) where the PhD position is located. The department has about 50 staff, half of whom are PhD students. In addition to surface physics and magnetism, the department has a strong profile in electron spectroscopy, imaging methods and the development of new methods using synchrotron light. Research on light-induced dynamical processes in molecules and clusters is an important area where attosecond light sources at the Lund Laser Centre, the MAX IV synchrotron in Lund and free-electron lasers in Hamburg are used.

The PhD position will be linked to the HELIOS research school (https://www.heliosgraduateschool.org/) which is a collaboration between Lund University and Universität Hamburg, as well as the DESY.

Work duties

The aim of the project is to investigate ultrafast and elementary processes in small quantum systems, such as (bio)molecules in clusters that are model systems for studying energy transport in water droplets.

In this project, the PhD student will study the electronic structure, photochemical reactions and ultrafast dynamics of small quantum systems using electron and ion spectroscopy imaging with attosecond light sources, synchrotron light, and to some extent free electron lasers. This combination of light sources makes it possible to achieve a fundamental understanding of ultrafast mechanisms and to explore the relationship between elementary processes on different length scales from the atomic scale to a few nanometres.

Since the properties of matter are ultimately determined by their electronic properties, a particular focus on characterizing processes driven by electron correlation is made to underpin the interplay between multi-electron and nuclear dynamics. Studies are performed both on isolated samples or samples prepared in situ after growth.

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:

• 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.
• Experience with programming.
• Willingness to participate in teamwork for extended experimental periods at large research facilities (synchrotron light facilities or free electron lasers), which may involve several trips annually.

 Other assessment criteria

• Experience in laboratory work is essential, including the use of electron spectrometers, mass spectrometers and (ultra)high vacuum techniques.
• Experience of scientific collaboration with researchers from other disciplines and from other countries.

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:

• Knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project and the subject of the study.
• An assessment of ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems.
• Written and oral communication skills
• Other experience relevant to postgraduate studies, such as professional experience.

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 LU 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, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).

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.