Postdoctoral fellow in Physics within THz-electron spin resonance-ellipsometry

Description of the workplace
The position is placed at the Division of Solid State Physics at the Department of Physics, a division with around 100 employees where extensive research is carried out centered on various aspects of nanophysics, ranging from materials science to bio- and quantum physics to various applications. The division is a central part of NanoLund, Lund University's large interdisciplinary research Centre on nanoscience and nanotechnology.

A significant part of the research at the division is in characterization of semiconductor materials. The department hosts the research group of Prof Vanya Darakchieva. Together with its co-operating partners, the group has developed in recent years THz ellipsometry and its applications in characterization of semiconductor materials and devices. The optical Hall effect is one of the advanced characterizations to access electronic transport properties. The method has been applied to two-dimensional semiconductor systems such as nitride-based high electron mobility transistors and graphene, but also to large band gap and low symmetry semiconductors such as Ga2O3. These materials and components lay the foundation for the next generation of high-frequency and high-power electronics being developed together with leading Swedish industrial partners.

More information can be found at: www.ftf.lth.se, www.nano.lu.se, THeMAC - Facilities - Linköping University (liu.se)

We offer
You will be included in a team of researchers at NanoLund, a highly visible nanoscience center that offers excellent career development, an open and inclusive research environment with an active community of PhD students and postdocs, and access to a wide range of state-of-the-art capabilities within characterization, nanofabrication and modelling.

Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme.
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Subject description
The person in charge of the position is Prof Vanya Darakchieva at the Division of Solid State Physics. Vanya Darakchieva has extensive experience in the development of new semiconductor materials for high frequency and power electronics. The research also focuses on developing spectroscopic techniques to study electronic and transport properties of materials from bulk to nanoscale.

A specific direction to be further developed is to investigate electron spin resonances with the THz ellipsometer, so-called high field EPR. It involves the development of equipment and strategies based on polarisation optical methods and aims at defect characterisation in semiconductors. The development is mainly basic research, but has strong links to future quantum technology concepts.

Work duties
The main duties involved in a post-doctoral position is to conduct research. You will work closely together with PhD students, giving you the opportunity to gain advising experience. 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.

The aim of this postdoctoral project is to conduct research in THz material analysis to expand the scope of THz ellipsometry and optical Hall effect to electron spin resonance ellipsometry. The method will mainly be applied in materials science, in particular for the investigation of crystal phases and defects in semiconductors. In addition to nitride material systems, a focus area will be Ga2O3 and other ultrawide bandgap semiconductors. 


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.
• The subject area of the doctorate degree should be in physics, materials science or equivalent specialising in optical properties of semiconductors.

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:

• Expertise in semiconductor characterization using spectroscopic methods
• Deep knowledge of semiconductor physics.
• Knowledge of ultrawide bandgap semiconductors.
• Proven experience in writing scientific papers.

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.

Further information
This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of 3 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
The application must be written in English and contain a letter in which you briefly describe yourself and your research interests, including contributions to the described research project. The application must also contain a CV, a copy of the doctoral degree certificate, a list of at least two references with contact details, copies of grades and other documents that you wish to refer to.

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

Welcome with your application!