Postdoctoral position in machine learning for the development of novel semiconductor materials (PA2026/2619)

Lund University was founded in 1666 and is repeatedly ranked among the world’s top universities. The University has around 46 000 students and 8 500 staff based in Lund, Helsingborg and Malmö. We are united in our efforts to understand, explain and improve our world and the human condition.

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. The division hosts the research group of Prof Vanya Darakchieva whose research over the past twenty years on the fabrication and advanced characterization of large bandgap semiconductors has been at the international forefront.

More information can be found at: www.ftf.lth.se , www.nano.lu.se , https://kaw.wallenberg.org/en/research/semiconductor-bandgap-key-future-green-electronics, https://c3nit.se/

The purpose of this project is to develop a data-driven approach for optimizing the growth of semiconductor materials by combining machine learning with a physics-based understanding of the growth process. Doping and processing of ultra-wide bandgap semiconductors present challenges, but it can enable electronic devices with substantially better performance as compared to traditional power electronic devices based on Si and SiC.

The position is part of a large initiative funded by KAW to develop a comprehensive platform that will enable, for the first time, deterministic control of atomic configurations in UWBG materials. The project combines leading expertise and unique know-how in theory, modelling, synthesis, atomic-scale imaging and spectroscopy, and nanoelectronics aiming to unlock the potential of AlN and UWBG materials for next-generation energy technologies.

The research work will be conducted in close collaboration with PhD-students and researchers working with power electronic devices within the competence center for III-Nitride technology C3NiT and within a European network within the WBG Pilot Line, but also with experienced researchers within materials growth and materials characterization, at the departments of solid state physics and synchrotron radiation physics. 

The main duties involved in a post-doctoral position is to conduct research. 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 research tasks will include to develop machine-learning methods using experimental data provided by collaborating experimentalists. A central part of the work will be to identify and define the most relevant parameters governing material growth based on the underlying physics, and to develop an open-source computational framework for analyzing experimental data, identifying relationships between growth conditions and material properties, and proposing optimized growth parameters. 

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.

• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• The subject area of the doctoral degree should be in physics, materials science or equivalent, specializing in machine learning and data-driven approaches
• Experience in modelling of multiphase systems (e.g. liquid/solid, gas/liquid, liquid/liquid, or gas/solid)
• Experience in application of machine learning approaches.
• Experience in scientific computing for experimental data analysis

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.

• 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.

Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme. 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.

Read more on the University website about being a Lund University employee. 

This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of 3years. 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”).

Applications are to be submitted via the University’s recruitment system. The application should include a CV and a personal letter justifying your interest in the position and how it matches your qualifications. The application should also include a degree certificate or equivalent and any other document to which you would like to draw attention (copies of grade transcripts, details of referees, letters of recommendation, etc.)”  

We welcome your application!