Doctoral student in Physics within the discipline of experimental nanothermodynamics - 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, and it hosts Lund Nano Lab, 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.

NanoLund stands at the forefront of research in semiconductor quantum devices and nanoscale heat engines - recently demonstrating quantum dot-based heat engines with thermoelectric energy conversion efficiencies approaching the fundamental limit while producing power. These novel devices serve as an interesting platform both for fundamental nanothermodynamics studies as well as applications for harnessing waste heat in quantum technologies.

This specific position focuses on conducting experimental investigations of heat fluctuations in nanoscale heat engines as a means toward demonstrating an energetic advantage of quantum systems over their classical counterparts, and further providing proof-of-concept groundwork for heat-management schemes in quantum technologies where waste heat generated during quantum operations could be converted into useful electrical energy.

More information can be found at: Division of Solid State Physics, NanoLund, Research portal, Nanothermodynamics

Work duties

• Device fabrication in the Lund Nano Lab cleanroom environment.
• Low-temperature transport measurements and time-resolved noise measurements.
• Analysis of the measurement results to gain an understanding of the underlying physical phenomena, including programming of analysis scripts.

As a PhD student in this position, you will get hands-on experience in quantum device fabrication within the Lund Nano Lab, perform time-resolved, low-temperature measurements and develop an understanding of the underlying physics of the devices’ operation. You will work as an important member of the research team and in collaboration with other research groups within NanoLund. The work provides a good mix of fundamental physics concepts and a technology-oriented mindset for building new devices.

The purpose of the PhD project is to study the effects of heat fluctuations on thermoelectric transport in nanoscale heat engines. In addition, the position may include development of various other device architectures for nanoscale energy harvesting applications. The PhD student is expected to work independently as well as in close collaboration with the other partners in the project.

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.

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. The assessment can, for example, be based on the thesis and a discussion about this during a possible interview.
3. Written and oral communication skills.
4. Other experience relevant to postgraduate studies, such as professional experience.

Other assessment criteria

• Knowledge of quantum device physics and/or low-dimensional transport physics,
• Experience with programming (e.g. Python / MATLAB),
• Ability to think analytically and creatively,
• Ability to skilfully conduct laboratory work.

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.

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 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, a copy of the master thesis or equivalent or a summary of the thesis work if the thesis has not yet been finished, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).

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

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.

Welcome to apply!