Postdoctoral position in synthesis of zinc phosphide nanostructures - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Description of the workplace

This position will be part of the Inorganic Nanomaterials research group within the Centre for Analysis and Synthesis (CAS) at the Department of Chemistry. We are a highly international unit and strive to maintain gender balance. Research at CAS focuses on inorganic, organic, polymer and materials synthesis, as well as advanced analysis and characterization techniques, with applications across such topics as photovoltaics, energy storage and catalysis. 

Subject description

The focus of the research will be on the synthesis of zinc phosphide nanostructures using selective area epitaxy and their structural and optical characterization. Semiconductor nanostructures have a wide range of potential uses in energy applications such as solar energy (photovoltaics). To be able to meet the rising challenges in sustainable production of materials for these applications, novel earth-abundant materials must be explored. For this reason we are aiming to develop synthesis of zinc phosphide with potential for circular and low-cost production at large scales.

The project will be part of the EIC Pathfinder project SolarUP, which will include collaboration and potential research stays at partner sites.

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 includes the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning. The purpose of the position is to develop the independence as a researcher and to create the opportunity of further development.

You will be responsible for designing, planning and carrying out experiments independently, including development of project ideas. Specifically you will be responsible for developing the fabrication of zinc phosphide nanostructures using selective area epitaxy, and characterizing their structural and optical properties. Supervision of graduate or postgraduate students may also be part of the work duties.

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. The certificate proving the qualification requirement is met, must be received before the employment decision is made. Priority will be given to candidates who have graduated no more than three years ago before the last day for application. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.

Additional requirements:

• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Doctoral degree within engineering, chemistry, materials science, or a related subject.
• Well versed in cleanroom nanofabrication.
• Advanced theoretical knowledge of crystal growth and nucleation.
• Good problem-solving and linguistic analytical abilities.

Assessment criteria

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.

Other qualifications:

Experience in any of the following will be counted as a merit: vapour phase epitaxy of zinc phosphide materials characterisation using transmission electron microscopy characterisation of the optical properties of semiconductors. We are looking for a person who is structured, goal-oriented and has good self-awareness.

Consideration will also be given to 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.

We offer
Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme. 
Read more on the University website about being a Lund University employee Work at Lund University. 

Further information

This is a full-time, fixed-term employment 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”).

How to apply

Applications shall be written in English. Please draw up the application in accordance with LTH’s Academic qualifications portfolio – see link below. Upload the application as PDF-files in the recruitment system. Read more: To apply for academic positions at LTH.

Welcome with your application!