Two Ph.D. positions in two-dimensional nanoelectronics and spintronics

Published: 2021-11-05

Uppsala University is a comprehensive research-intensive university with a strong international standing. Our ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a long-term difference in society. Our most important assets are all the individuals whose curiosity and dedication make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting workplaces. Uppsala University has over 45,000 students, more than 7,000 employees and a turnover of around SEK 7 billion.

The research conducted at the Department of Physics and Astronomy encompasses a wide range of physics topics, distributed over ten divisions. The department is located in the Ångström laboratory and employs nearly 400 people, 125 of whom are doctoral students. It offers a broad physics curriculum to undergraduate and graduate students, participation in nationally and internationally leading research projects, and opportunities for partnership with industry and various outreach activities. Here, the program Condensed Matter Physics of Energy Materials research aims to develop an understanding of electronic properties at the atomic level and new functional materials for energy and environmental applications.

Research group: The Quantum Material Device group at Ångström Laboratory, Uppsala University, is a young team funded by the prestigious European Research Council. To enable next-generation electronics and neuromorphic components, we explore novel charge-spin transport and magneto-optic phenomena in two-dimensional (2D) quantum materials and their devices. Our experiments involve building innovative devices using 2D materials such as graphene, 2D semiconductors, 2D insulators, emerging 2D magnetic systems, and their integrated  2D quantum heterostructures, and the use of state-of-the-art precision measurements to discover steady-state and ultrafast charge/spin phenomena and exotic new physics. Applications are aimed for novel spin components, their architectures for energy-efficient spin memory-logic applications, flexible spintronic devices, and spin-integrated circuits. In addition to an international network of collaborators, we collaborate with internationally reputed experimentalists in X-ray spectroscopy and materials theory and simulation groups at Uppsala University.

Project description: Electrons possess a magnetic property called 'spin' that can be Up or Down. Spin-polarized electrons or spins form the basis for spintronics that enabled ultrahigh-density magnetic memory storage and precision sensing, thereby revolutionizing the information technology age. Over the past decade, the advent of 2D materials brought a fresh stimulus for spintronics. This project aims to use the spin of electrons to realize efficient spin devices using 2D materials and advance towards complex spin integrated circuits. The project involves advanced nanofabrication in state-of-the-art cleanroom facilities at Ångström Laboratory and precision measurements utilizing several sophisticated techniques to characterize the devices of 2D material heterostructures.

Work duties: The successful candidate will get an opportunity to work in an exciting area of frontline research, with state-of-the-art research nanofabrication and experimental facilities. The candidate will be part of a team with expertise in devices, instrumentation, advanced high-precision measurements, and characterization techniques. The primary duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research duties, which include

• Actively engage in group research projects
• Nanofabrication of 2D quantum heterostructures and their devices
• Perform precision characterization and drive experiments on materials and devices
• Contribute to experimental developments in the laboratory and other research tasks
• Contribute to writing manuscripts and dissemination of results

The position as a Ph.D. student is limited to four years of full-time studies, consisting of research and required coursework relevant to the research subject domain. Other duties at the department, related to teaching and administration, may extend the position at a maximum level of 20%. Further information is available at www.physics.uu.se.

Requirements: Have completed an undergraduate degree at Master's level or equivalent in Physics, with specialization in one of the subjects such as solid-state physics, condensed matter physics, materials science, or in another appropriate discipline.

Fluency in both spoken and written English is an absolute prerequisite.

Additional qualifications: We are looking for a pro-active, self-driven person, enthusiastic about performing groundbreaking research in an international research group. Importance is given to creativity and strong motivation for experimental research. It is essential that the candidate has intrinsic enthusiasm for a doctoral program and displays a result-oriented and problem-solving approach to accomplish the experimental objectives in a timely manner. Interest and skills in designing, scientific writing, efficiency, and organization in the workstyle and other good working practices are important.

Earlier experience in graphene and 2D materials, nanodevices, flexible electronics, and cleanroom experience will be considered a merit.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills (synergy), self-drive and independence, and how the candidate can contribute to the development of the group.

Instructions for application: Your application should include the following:

A letter describing your background, motivation for research, why you want to pursue a Ph.D., and why you are suitable for the research project described and described additional requirements.

Your curriculum vitae

A copy of your Master diploma and a complete list of your course grades

Name and contact details (address, email address, and phone number) of at least two (ideally three) references.

The application should be written in English.

Rules governing Ph.D. students are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University's rules and guidelines.

Uppsala University strives to be an international and inclusive workplace that promotes equal opportunities and attracts qualified candidates who can contribute to the University's excellence and diversity. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and people of all backgrounds.

Salary: According to local agreement for Ph.D. students.

Starting date: 01-12-2021 or as otherwise agreed.

Type of employment: Temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7.

Scope of employment: 100 %

For further information about the position, please contact: Venkata Kamalakar Mutta, +46 728731687, [email protected].

Please submit your application by 15 November 2021, UFV-PA 2021/3400.

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Submit your application through Uppsala University's recruitment system.

Placement: Department of Physics and Astronomy

Type of employment: Full time , Temporary position longer than 6 months

Pay: Fixed salary

Number of positions: 2

Working hours: 100 %

Town: Uppsala

County: Uppsala län

Country: Sweden

Union representative: ST/TCO [email protected]
Seko Universitetsklubben [email protected]
Saco-rådet [email protected]

Number of reference: UFV-PA 2021/3400

Last application date: 2021-11-15

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