Postdoctoral Researcher (computational physics)

Tampere University and Tampere University of Applied Sciences create a unique environment for multidisciplinary, inspirational and high-impact research and education. Our universities community has its competitive edges in technology, health and society. www.tuni.fi/en

The Materials and Molecular Modeling group in the Tampere University is specialized in atomistic simulations, mostly using DFT methods. One of the main focus areas is semiconducting phase change materials (PCMs) for electronic and optical memory applications. The group has actively investigated the formation of amorphous PCM structures and their recrystallisation, and the related phenomena in electronic properties. The latest project considers a high-throughput DFT discovery of PCM superlattice structures for optimal contrast in resistivity and optical absorption. We use also machine learning methods for speeding up the simulations and mapping out potential materials.

Job description

The research work includes high-throughput DFT simulations of chalcogenide superlattice structures for memory materials application. The workflow includes calculations of conductivity and optical absorption using special techniques (NEGF, TD-DFT). In parallel, a machine learning code will be developed to speed up the mapping of target properties for different materials.

The work is part of an external project funded by the Academy of Finland until 2025.

The Postdoctoral fellow will be integrated in the Computational Physics Laboratory which is a versatile research environment comprising several fields of physics. The successful candidate will also be involved in the supervision of M.Sc. and Ph.D. students and some teaching duties.

Requirements

We are searching for a talented and highly motivated researcher holding a Ph.D. degree in Physics, Materials Science or Chemistry, and with a substantial and demonstrated experience in first-principles computational methods. Experience with non-equilibrium Green's function methods (NEGF), time-dependent DFT, high-throughput workflows, and/or machine learning algorithms will be considered as benefits. We expect that the successful candidate will have a solid background knowledge in condensed matter physics and be proficient in programming. 

We offer

The position will be filled for a fixed-term period of 2 years with a possibility for extension. The planned starting date is 1.1.2023 or as mutually agreed. A trial period of six months applies to all our new employees.

The salary will be based on both the job requirements and the employee's personal performance in accordance with the Finnish University Salary System. The position of a Postdoctoral Researcher is placed on the job demands level 5-6 (teaching and research staff). A typical starting salary of Postdoctoral Researcher is around 3500 EUR/month.

We offer a wide range of staff benefits, such as occupational health care, flexible working hours, excellent sports facilities on campus and several restaurants and cafés on campus with staff discounts. Please read more about working at Tampere University .

Computational Physics Laboratory focuses on diverse topics in quantum matter, complex systems, novel materials, nanostructures, electronic structure and interdisciplinary challenges in medical technologies and physiology. Our fields is one of the most prestigious research areas of Tampere University. We offer a world-class research environment in internationally recognized research groups. We have strong collaborative networks and offer great opportunities for researchers to develop their careers in an international setting. 

How to apply

Please submit your application through our online recruitment system. The closing date for applications is 30th of November 2022 (at 23.59 EEST / 20.59 UTC). Please write your application and all accompanying documents in English and attach them in PDF format.

Applications should include the following documents:

• Curriculum Vitae according to TENK guidelines
• List of publications according to Academy of Finland guidelines
• References from two people
• Motivation letter, including a short introduction of the applicant, previous research work and future plans

For more information, please contact:

Dr Janne Kalikka janne.kalikka(at)tuni.fi