PhD Position in Experimental Physics - Befattningen är under tillsättning eller redan tillsatt, och det är inte längre möjligt att lämna in en ansökan

Department of Physics at Umeå University (www.physics.umu.se) conducts strong research in the areas of organic electronics, condensed matter physics, nanotechnology, photonics and theoretical physics

The Department of Physics is looking for a PhD student in experimental physics for a project aimed at the production of disordered nanomaterials for electrocatalysis.
Application deadline is May 15th 2019.
The position will open in September 2019 (exact start date can be negotiated).

Project Description
The project involves the production of disordered, defective, and non-stoichiometric nanomaterials for electrocatalysis. These materials exhibit alterations in their atomic structure that lead to substantial changes in oxidation states, local coordination environment, and lattice disorder, often resulting in unique and fascinating properties. However, the design and optimization of this type of material represent a challenge that requires a combinatory approach of experiment and theory to identify key parameters required to achieve inexpensive but efficient electrocatalysts.

The selected candidate will work within the Disordered Nanomaterials group where the actual research will focus on exploring non-equilibrium synthesis techniques (e.g. solid-state microwave-assisted synthesis and solution precursor plasma spray pyrolysis) to formulate novel disordered materials, as well as to characterize their structure and catalytic activity.

Competence requirements
The successful candidate should hold a master degree (or equivalent) in physics or engineering physics. Experience in experimental laboratory research, electrochemistry, characterization techniques of nanomaterials, and design of experiments will be seen as an advantage. Interests in both experimental work and numerical simulations are expected.

The candidate must be highly motivated and have the ability to work independently as well as a part of the research group. The applicant is required to be fluent in both oral and written English.

To be admitted for studies at third-cycle level the applicant is required to have completed a second-cycle level degree, or completed course requirements of at least 240 ECTS credits, of which at least 60 ECTS credits are at second-cycle level, or have an equivalent education from abroad or equivalent qualifications.

To fulfill the specific entry requirements to be admitted for studies at third-cycle level within the subject of experimental physics, the applicant is required to have completed courses within the field of physics comprising at least 120 ECTS credits. The requirements must be fulfilled at the time when the candidate is accepted for the PhD position but do not need to be fulfilled at the time of the application.

About the position
The position is intended to result in a doctoral degree and the main task of the PhD student is to pursue their doctoral studies which include both participation in research and postgraduate courses. The duties can include teaching and other departmental work (up to a maximum of 20%). Employment is limited to four years of full-time or up to five years for teaching part time. Salary is set in accordance with the established salary ladder for PhD position.

Application
The application should include:
1. A cover letter with a brief description of qualifications, research interests, and motivation.
2. Curriculum vitae.
3. Copies of relevant degree diploma(s).
4. A list of university courses with grades. Note that for international applicants the grading system should be explained in brief.
5. A copy of master thesis and publications (if any).
6. Contact information of three referees.

Information
For more information contact Eduardo Gracia, email: eduardo.gracia@umu.se, tel:+46 90 786 6339
Applications must be submitted via the e-recruitment system Varbi no later than 15th  May 2019.

We look forward to receiving your application!