Doktorand i materialvetenskap

Information about the research/the project/the division
The PhD student will join the dynamic research group of Professor Maths Karlsson at the Energy and Materials Division of the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at Chalmers. Our research, within the field of experimental materials science, focuses on investigations of key fundamental properties of atomic-scale structure and dynamics of energy relevant materials, such as ionic conductors and luminescent materials, with a view towards their application in present-day and future energy technologies (e.g., fuel cells, batteries, hydrogen storage, solar cells, and white light emitting diodes).

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Major responsibilities
Proton- and hydride-ion conducting oxides show promise as electrolytic materials for several emerging energy technologies, such as fuel cells, batteries, hydrogen sensors, and for catalytic processes. However, a too low conductivity renders them impractical for applications. The development of new, better materials depends on a fundamental understanding of the ion (i.e. proton or hydride-ion) conductivity mechanism, but such an understanding is lacking. This PhD project aims to develop a thorough understanding of the conductivity mechanism underpinning both proton- and hydride-ion conducting oxides (both bulk and thin films). More specifically, the aim is to unravel the coupling between vibrational dynamics of the H species and of the oxide host lattice and how they relate to H transport. This will allow for the development of design criteria for new materials with certain levels of proton or hydride-ion conductivity towards the application of these materials in specific applications.The primary tools to this end will involve the use of advanced time-resolved (pump and probe) spectroscopy techniques based on X-rays, UV, and infrared (IR) light, which are available at international large-scale facilities and in our own laboratories at Chalmers. Additionally, the student will perform computer simulations of key structural and vibrational properties, such as vibrational relaxation mechanisms and possible H diffusion pathways, to model the experimental data as well as to guide future experiments. The research program is further supported by the collaboration with both experimental and theoretical groups, with complementary expertise and/or infrastructure of importance for the project. This PhD position offers an exceptional opportunity to perform top notch basic research in a very important and timely research field related to the development of next-generation energy technologies, using state-of-the-art techniques at large-scale photon sources, and in close collaboration with leading experimental and theoretical research groups.  

Your major responsibilities are to pursue your own doctoral studies. You are expected to develop your own scientific concepts and communicate the results of your research verbally and in writing, both in Swedish and in English. The position generally also includes teaching on Chalmers' undergraduate level or performing other duties corresponding to 10 per cent of working hours.

Position summary
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years.

Qualifications
To qualify as a PhD student, you must have a Master's level degree corresponding to at least 240 higher education credits in a relevant field (Physics, Chemistry, or Materials Science), or you expect to complete your MSc education at the latest in September 2020. To be successful, you have to be highly motivated, self-propelled and have a high analytical ability. As the student will spend a significant period of time at international large-scale facilities (several experiments a year and attend international conferences, it is important that he/she has a flexible approach towards travelling. The position also requires sound verbal and written communication skills in English. Experience in advanced optical spectroscopy techniques is an asset.

Chalmers continuously strives to be an attractive employer. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Our offer to you
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the dynamic city of Gothenburg.
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20200137 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as pdf-files, as below:

CV: (Please name the document: CV, Family name, Ref. number)
• CV, max 2 pages.
• Two references that we can contact.

Personal letter: (Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, Ref. number)
1-2 pages where you:
• Introduce yourself
• Describe your previous research fields and main research results
• Describe your future goals and ambitions

Other documents:
• Copies of bachelor and/or master’s thesis.
• Attested copies and transcripts of completed education, grades and other certificates, eg. TOEFL test results.

Please use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. The files may be compressed (zipped).

Application deadline: 2020-05-20

For questions, please contact:
Dr. Maths Karlsson, Energy and Materials,
maths.karlsson@chalmers.se