Uppsala University, Department of Physics and Astronomy

Institutionen för fysik och astronomi är en av Uppsala universitets största med närmare 400 anställda, varav ca 125 doktorander. Institutionen bedriver forskning och utbildning i världsklass inom såväl teoretisk som experimentell fysik och har en omfattande samverkan med omvärlden. Forskningen genomförs vid 10 forskningsavdelningar och berör allt från det ofattbart lilla till det stora inom till exempel energiförsörjning, klimatutveckling, nya material och universum. Hela detta spektrum avspeglar sig också i institutionens kurser och utbildningsprogram. Runt 2 500 studenter läser varje år kurser på grund- och avancerad nivå vid institutionen. Läs mer på www.physics.uu.se

Research group: In the Nanodevice Physics group, we explore charge and spin transport phenomena in quantum materials and devices. We build novel graphene circuits to uncover spin relaxation physics and new device architectures for demonstrating new spin functionalities for next generation energy-efficient spin memory and logic applications. Beyond graphene, we explore 2D semiconductors such as dichalcogenides (MoS2 and MoSe2) and black phosphorus, 2D insulators (hexagonal boron nitride), layered topological insulators (Bi2Se3), the newly discovered 2D magnetic systems (such as Cr2Ge2Te6), all of which provide new opportunities for investigations. Apart from individual crystals, we assemble 2D materials with contrasting properties to prepare special laminates that show improved properties for spin transport with enhanced mobility. In addition to transport-based investigations, we study these systems through complementary experimental techniques such as magneto-optic effects, X-ray probes, and computational methods. Our overall goal is to go beyond state-of-the-art to report new physics and device structures for enhanced performance, and realize novel sensing and energy related applications. 

More information on the research group's profile is available in the website:https://www.physics.uu.se/research/molcond/ongoingresearch/functional-materials/spin-transport/

Research project and work duties: Electrons possess a magnetic property called 'spin' that can be Up or Down. Spin-polarized electrons or spins form the basis for spintronics that enabled ultrahigh-density magnetic memory storage and precision sensing, thereby revolutionizing the information technology age. Over the past decade, the advent of two-dimensional materials brought a fresh stimulus for spintronics. This project aims to use the spin of electrons to realize efficient spin devices using two-dimensional materials. The project involves advanced nanofabrication in state-of-the-art cleanroom facilities at Ångström Laboratory, and precision measurements utilizing a number of sophisticated techniques to characterize the devices and 2D material heterostructures. 

The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research duties, which include participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%). The doctoral student position is a 4-year appointment, and the candidate will primarily devote the time to his/her own research studies. Extension, up to a maximum of five years, is possible by involving departmental duties at a level of at most 20%, typically teaching.

Qualifications: We are looking for a creative and highly motivated candidate, who, at the agreed start date, will have completed an undergraduate degree at Master’s level or equivalent in Physics, with specialization in one of the subjects such as solid-state physics, condensed matter physics, materials science, or in another appropriate discipline. Earlier experience in graphene and 2D materials and nanodevices, flexible electronics and cleanroom experience will be considered an advantage.

Additional requirements: We give great importance to personal qualifications of the candidates. The selected candidate will receive training in advanced nanofabrication and measurements, and get an opportunity to work in a team with expertise in devices, instrumentation, and necessary measurements. We are looking for a pro-active person with great ability to learn to work independently as well as with coworkers, while working in a team. It is important that the candidate has enthusiasm for a doctoral programme and possess a strong internal motivation for success of the research. The research requires that the candidate needs to be committed and display strong analytical and problem-solving skills to accomplish the experimental objectives in a timely manner. The candidate must have a good knowledge of English, both oral and in writing, and, in general, good communication skills.

Instructions for application: Your application should include the following:

  1. A letter about yourself, your research interests, why you want to pursue a Ph.D., and why you are a suitable person for the research project described
  2. Your curriculum vitae
  3. A copy of your Master diploma and complete list of your course grades
  4. Name and contact details (address, email address, and phone number) of at least two (ideally three) references.
  5. A list of relevant publications (including master thesis)

The application should be written in English.

Rules governing PhD students are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University's rules and guidelines http://regler.uu.se/?languageId=1.

Salary: According to local agreement for PhD students.

Starting date: 01-09-2020 or as otherwise agreed.

Type of employment: Temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7.

Scope of employment: 100 %

For further information about the position please contact: Venkata Kamalakar Mutta, 0728731687, venkata.mutta@physics.uu.se. 

Please submit your application by 15 May 2020, UFV-PA 2020/1168.

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? If so, you will find a lot of information about working and living in Sweden at www.uu.se/joinus. You are also welcome to contact International Faculty and Staff Services at ifss@uadm.uu.se.

Type of employment Temporary position
Contract type Full time
First day of employment 20200901
Salary Fixed salary
Number of positions 1
Full-time equivalent 100 %
City Uppsala
County Uppsala län
Country Sweden
Reference number UFV-PA 2020/1168
Union representative
  • Seko Universitetsklubben, seko@uadm.uu.se
  • ST/TCO, tco@fackorg.uu.se
  • Saco-rådet, saco@uadm.uu.se
Published 25.Mar.2020
Last application date 15.May.2020 11:59 PM CEST

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