Three PhD positions 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 organic electronics, photonics, electrochemical energy conversion and storage, nanotechnology, and theoretical physics. 

We now announce three PhD positions in the field of organic electronics, with the overall goal of realizing a uniquely functional and sustainable light-emission technology through the development and implementation of “green” designed materials, advanced measurement methods, and novel device designs. The last day for application is January 7, 2024. The starting date is March 1, 2024, or by agreement.

Project descriptions
A brief description of the planned research is as follows:
·         The first PhD project is focused on the design, synthesis and characterization of functional and environmentally benign materials.

·         The second PhD project is focused on the development and utilization of advanced measurement methods for the characterization of advanced materials and devices.

·         The third PhD project is focused on the development and realization of a novel technology, termed a light-emitting electrochemical cell (LEC), by implementation of designed and sustainable materials and methods. 

The PhD projects will be executed in The Organic Photonics and Electronics Group, and information on the group's ongoing activities can be found at: www.opeg-umu.com

Competence requirements
To be admitted for studies at the third-cycle (or PhD) level you are required to have completed a second-cycle level degree or to have completed course requirements of at least 240 ECTS credits (or the equivalent to ECTS if you have been educated outside of Europe). The formal prerequisites further include 240 ECTS credits of higher education studies, of which 60 should be on an advanced (Master) level, and 120 ECTS should be in Physics. For these three positions, up to 30 of the ECTS in Physics can be replaced by courses in Chemistry or Material Science. The requirements do not need to be fulfilled at the time of application but only at the enrollment. Fluency in English is mandatory. The recruitment will follow the procedure outlined in the Higher Education Ordinance (“Högskoleförordningen”).

Documented experience with experimental research, in particular within the subject areas of material synthesis, advanced material characterization, and/or device development, is considered a merit.

It is further of uttermost importance that you exhibit a strong motivation for research in general and your selected PhD project in particular, that you are interested in both experimental and theoretical research tasks, and that you are goal oriented and capable of leading projects independently and in collaboration with other researchers. Since the research environment is multidisciplinary and multicultural, you are expected to be interested and thrive in collaborations within such a dynamic setting.  

Terms of employment
The employment is expected to result in a PhD degree. The main assignment for the PhD student is to actively contribute to, and advance, the planned research project and to actively participate in relevant PhD courses. Teaching and other departmental duties (up to a maximum of 20%) can be included in the terms of PhD employment. The PhD employment is limited to four years at full time, or up to five years if teaching and other departmental duties are performed. The salary is fixed according to the established salary level for PhD students. The employment starts March 1, 2024 or according to agreement.

The application
The application should contain:
1. A cover letter that distinctly and clearly describes your qualifications, research interests and motivation for application. Information on your preferred PhD project should be included.
2. Your Curriculum Vitae.
3. Certified copies of relevant degree certificate(s) translated to English or Swedish.
4. Transcripts with relevant grades translated to English or Swedish. Note that the grading system for international (non-EU) applicants must be explained.
5. Copies of student theses and publications (if any).
6. The contact information of at least two reference persons.

You apply via our e-recruitment system Varbi. The deadline for applications is January 7, 2024. 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 Professor Ludvig Edman (e-mail: [email protected]) or Dr. Jia Wang (e-mail: [email protected])

We look forward to receiving your application!