Doctoral student in Physics within the discipline of theory of nanostructures coupled to microwave cavities - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Description of the workplace

The research at the division of Solid State Physics within the Physics Department is focused around different aspects of nanophysics, ranging from materials science to quantum physics, to different applications. The division plays a central role in NanoLund, the major interdisciplinary research environment within nanoscience and nanotechnology at Lund University. 

Research on semiconductor nanowires is an area where the division of Solid State Physics is at the international forefront. The research includes both material growth and characterization of nanowires, as well as their use in different devices and in, for example, experiments in fundamental quantum physics and quantum technology. Theoretical research within nanowires, quantum science and quantum technology is conducted in close collaboration with the experimental activities. More information can be found at: www.ftf.lth.se, www.nano.lu.se

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 will also/can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

The project will focus on theoretical research within quantum technology, meaning technology that takes advantage of the unique properties of quantum systems, such as superpositions and entanglement, to enhance performance or enable new functionality beyond the reach of classical physics. Specifically, we will in this project use different analytical and numerical methods to study quantum dots and other nanostructures coupled to photons in microwave cavities. The coupling to microwave photons can, for example, be used to couple and entangle spatially separated electronic or spin states, which is useful for sending quantum information between different qubits in a quantum computer. There are also applications within quantum sensing, where superpositions and entanglement are used to boost measurement precision.

This is a theoretical project, but it will be carried out in close collaboration with experimental research groups, both at Lund University and within national and international collaborations. The project is part of the Wallenberg Center for Quantum Technology (WACQT), a 12-year, billion-SEK initiative with the purpose of advancing Swedish academia and industry to the forefront of quantum technology, and to build a Swedish quantum computer.

Admission requirements 

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

• 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 the applicant 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.

Assessment criteria

Selection for third-cycle studies is based on the student’s potential to profit from such studies. The assessment of potential is made primarily on the basis of academic results from the first and second cycle. Special attention is paid to the following: 

1. Knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project and the subject of 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 the third-cycle studies, e.g. professional experience.

Other assessment criteria:

• The degree should include courses within theoretical physics, quantum mechanics and solid-state physics.
• Abilities and experience from theoretical and mathematical work will be essential, and courses within advanced quantum mechanics for condensed matter physics are of great value.
• Experience from programming and numerical work is beneficial. 

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

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. 

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 §§.

How to apply

Applications shall 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.).

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

Welcome to apply!