Doctoral researcher, Physics

Updated: over 2 years ago
Job Type: FullTime
Deadline: 15 Nov 2021

We are currently seeking to recruit staff for the position of  

DOCTORAL RESEARCHER in artificial quantum materials in van der Waals heterostructures 

The position starts 1 December or as agreed, for maximum of 4 years.

We are looking for

The goal of this Ph.D. project is to investigate artificial quantum materials e.g., topological materials, multiferroic materials in various 2D heterostructures.

The field of condensed matter physics is now entering a fascinating era where the design and control of quantum matter are becoming a reality. Instead of being limited to naturally occurring materials, we can fabricate new materials from known building blocks with purposefully designed novel functionalities based on designer material principles. 

Our designer platform is based on atomically well-defined 2D van der Waals heterostructures. This designer platform provides pathways to many-body quantum phenomena that are exceedingly difficult to find intrinsically in isolated materials. Moreover, these synthetic materials not only reveal new facets of quantum many-body physics in a controlled laboratory setting but also offer advances in technological applications in the field of quantum information science.

You will use molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) to fabricate high-quality 2D vdW heterostructures and probe the resulting properties using low-temperature scanning tunneling microscopy (LT-STM) and spectroscopy (STS)1,2,3 .

You will work with cutting-edge ultra-high vacuum (UHV) cryogenic scanning probe microscopy (SPM) facilities and join a young and innovative team of experienced researchers and technicians. The contract term is four years.

We ask

  • A Master's degree in physics or a related field and a thesis written on an experimental topic. Priority will be given to applicants with SPM, cryogenic, and/or UHV experience.
  • A high proficiency in spoken and written English.
  • You are expected to carry out experiments, both independently and in a team.
  • You are expected to learn to communicate your results by writing manuscripts and giving presentations at international conferences.
  • You will operate UHV-SPM and MBE facilities, and perform high-precision spectroscopic measurements.

We are

You will be part of the Nanoscience center at the University of Jyväskylä with many international scientists and students. We utilize SPM techniques beyond the state of the art to study numerous problems in fundamental physics and chemistry. We focus on the fabrication of high-quality 2D van der Waals heterostructures and high-precision magnetic and electronic imaging of 2D materials in cryogenic ultrahigh vacuum environments under external magnetic fields.  

What does the University of Jyväskylä offer as an employer?

The University of Jyväskylä is a human-centered environment of 2,500 experts and 14,500 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and well-being for all. JYU's naturally beautiful campus is located in the heart of the city of Jyväskylä. JYU is the third-largest employer in Central Finland. At the University of Jyväskylä, you are a recognized member of our community with a unique opportunity to influence international research. You get to participate in our international and multidisciplinary community where the welfare of each individual is important. At the University of Jyväskylä, we offer a great and lively campus area with opportunities to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.

Finland has a high standard of living, with free schooling (also in English), affordable childcare, good family benefits, and healthcare. Jyväskylä is located in central Finland in the Finnish Lake District having excellent opportunities for different nature, outdoor, and sports activities. The City of Jyväskylä is a major educational center with a large student population and a vibrant cultural atmosphere. For more information regarding the University of Jyväskylä, the City of Jyväskylä, and living in Finland, see the University's International Staff Guide .

The monthly salary range will be approximately 2300 EUR in the beginning. With progess of the thesis work, the salary will be revised in accordance with the Collective Agreement of Finnish Education Employers. A trial period of six months will be used at the beginning of the employment. The employment contract will be done at first for one year.

How to apply?

The application documents that should be included in PDF format:

  • Curriculum vitae (CV), composed according to good scientific practice and considering the template for researcher´s curriculum vitae by The Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity  and including contact information of two academics who can provide reference letters
  • Cover letter including a statement of research interests.
  • A numbered list of publications (if applicable)
  • Relevant certificates/diplomas (if applicable)
  • Applicants are kindly asked to submit their applications using the online application form by November 15, 2021.

    For further details, please contact Assistant Professor Kezilebieke Shawulienu, [email protected]

    Reference

    [1]         S. Kezilebieke, M.N. Huda, O.J. Silveira, V. Vano, J. Lahtinen, R. Mansell, S. van Dijken, A.S. Foster, P. Liljeroth, Adv. Mater. 2021, 2006850.

    [2]         S. Kezilebieke, M. N. Huda, V. Vano, M. Aapro, S.C. Ganguli, O.J. Silveira, S. Glodzik, A.S. Foster, T. Ojanen, P. Liljeroth, Nature 588 (7838), 424-428.

    [3]         S. Kezilebieke, V. Vano, M. N. Huda, M. Aapro, S.C. Ganguli, P. Liljeroth, Jose L. Lado, arXiv:2011.09760



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