PhD position in Experimental Physics

Umeå University is one of Sweden’s largest higher education institutions with over 37,000 students and about 4,700 employees. The University offers a diversity of high-quality education and world-leading research in several fields. Notably, the groundbreaking discovery of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing tool, which was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, was made here. At Umeå University, everything is close. Our cohesive campuses make it easy to meet, work together and exchange knowledge, which promotes a dynamic and open culture.

The ongoing societal transformation and large green investments in northern Sweden create enormous opportunities and complex challenges. For Umeå University, conducting research about – and in the middle of – a society in transition is key. We also take pride in delivering education to enable regions to expand quickly and sustainably. In fact, the future is made here.

The Department of Physics at Umeå University (https://www.umu.se/en/department-of-physics/ ) conducts strong research in the areas of condensed matter physics, nanotechnology, photonics and theoretical physics.

The Department of Physics is offering a PhD position for project on graphene-related materials. The project is aimed on developing new graphene-related materials, studies of material’s structure and properties, evaluation of energy storage in supercapacitors.  The position is full time for 4 years with start on October 15, 2023 or by agreement. The deadline to submit application is 15th of August 2023.

Project description
The project is focused on preparation graphene related materials optimized for application in supercapacitors. The project aims to prepare materials with high surface area using chemical modification of graphene and graphene oxide, introducing different defects and addition of nanoparticles.  Important part of project is aimed on design of environmentally friendly water based dispersions based on graphene related materials for preparation of electrodes with high surface area. Dispersions and inks will be optimized for best performance in supercapacitors and for several electrode manufacturing methods including spray deposition and printing.
The candidate will be engaged in synthesis of new materials and characterization of these materials using BET/DFT surface area analysis, DSC, x-ray diffraction, Raman and IR spectroscopy etc. It is also planned to use synchrotron radiation facilities and neutron scattering methods.  

Competence requirements
To be admitted for studies at third-cycle level you are required to have completed a second-cycle level degree or completed course requirements of at least 240 ECTS credits. The recruitment procedure will follow the Higher Education Ordinance (Högskoleförordningen). Prerequisites include 240 ECTS credits (högskolepoäng) of higher education studies, of which 60 should be on an advanced level (Master’s level), or equivalent. In addition to these requirements, 120 ECTS need to be in physics. The requirements do not need to be fulfilled at the time of application but only at the enrollment. Fluency in English is mandatory.

Applicants with master exam in Chemistry, Material Science of Physical Engineering which fulfill this requirement are also welcomed to apply. 

Previous experience and competence with carbon materials (graphene, graphite oxide, carbon nanotubes) and electrochemical characterization of supercapacitors is not obligatory but is an advantage. The applicant should be motivated, dedicated to research with ability to work with mainly experimental assignments both independently and in a research group.

Terms of employment
The employment is expected to result in a doctoral degree and the main assignment for the doctoral student is thus to be part of the research education, which includes participation in the described research project but also to take relevant courses. Teaching and other departmental work (up to a maximum of 20%) can be included. The employment is limited to four years at full time or up to five years if teaching and other departmental work is performed. The salary is fixed according to the established salary level for doctoral students. 

The application
The application should contain:
1.           A cover letter with summary of research interests and motivation (max. 1 page)
2.          Curriculum Vitae.
3.          Certified copies of relevant degree certificate(s) translated to English or Swedish.
4.          Transcripts with grades, with English or Swedish translation. Note that for international (extra-EU) applicants the grading system should be explained in brief.
5.          Copies of student theses and publications (if any)
6.          Names and contact information of 3 reference persons

You apply via our e-recruitment system Varbi. The deadline for applications is August 15, 2023.
Log in and apply via the button at the bottom of the page. All documents should be uploaded in pdf format. 

More information
For further information contact Alexandr Talyzin [email protected]
Selected candidates will be contacted for on line interviews.  

We look forward to receiving your application!