PhD student in Inorganic chemistry, Advanced Thermoelectric Materials via Nanoparticle-in-Alloy Engineering in thin film

The Department of Chemistry - Ångström conducts research and education in the chemistry field. The department has more than 270 employees and has a turnover of 300 million SEK. At the department's six programs, we conduct very successful research of a high international standard. We have a large number of externally funded research projects, often with international cooperation and we see continued good growth in our subject area. The department has education assignments in engineering programs and master's programs. More information is available on our website.

Duties
PhD student in the Inorganic Chemistry research program. The research focuses on the development of next-generation thermoelectric materials through advanced nanoscale engineering. The project aims to significantly enhance thermoelectric performance by decoupling the key thermoelectric characteristics using a “nanoparticle-in-alloy” design strategy within an inorganic thin-film system. The core objective of the research is to tailor the interface structure and electronic interactions between magnetic nanoparticles and a degenerated semiconductor matrix. The proposed synthesis route, based entirely on physical vapor deposition—a highly non-equilibrium process, is unique and enables the development of unprecedented nanocomposites such as those envisioned in this project. The research provides fertile ground for scientific innovation with the present project but has the potential to impact other related fields.

The research includes studies from materials synthesis, thin-film deposition, advanced structural and magnetic characterization, to thermoelectric and electronic transport measurements. The project also incorporates a theoretical component, including theoretical predictions of material stability and properties, carried out in collaboration with the Physics Department at Linköping University. Depending on the PhD student’s interests, involvement in this theoretical work may range from collaborative participation to direct engagement in the modeling and simulations.

The duties may also include (e.g.) teaching, supervision of degree projects, collaboration with other University partners, administration linked to the tasks above

Requirements
To meet the entry requirements for doctoral studies, you must

• been awarded a second-cycle degree in Materials Chemistry, Materials Science, Materials Physics, or equivalent
• have completed at least 240 credits in higher education, with at least 60 credits at Master’s level including an independent project worth at least 15 credits, or
• acquired essentially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

The candidate must have:

• very good oral and written proficiency in English.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and 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.

Additional qualifications
A background in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, or a related field is preferred. Experience with vacuum systems, thin-film growth, nanomaterials, solid-state physics, or thermoelectric characterization is also beneficial.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date:  June 1 2026 or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala

Rules governing PhD students are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University's rules and guidelines.

For further information about the position, please contact: 
Arnaud le Febvrier, arnaud.lefebvrier@kemi.uu.se

Please submit your application by 30th January 2026, UFV-PA 2025/3805.

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