PhD in Radio Astronomy Instrumentation: Superconducting Electronics

The Group for Advanced Receiver Development (GARD) at Chalmers leads in Terahertz instrumentation for radio astronomy. Our team of scientists, physicists, and engineers focuses on superconducting electronics, terahertz technologies, material science, low-temperature physics, thin-film technology, and microwave engineering. This multidisciplinary approach allows us to create advanced instruments for radio astronomy and environmental sciences.

GARD, recognized internationally for its Terahertz instrumentation, has significantly contributed to projects like Herschel HIFI, ALMA, and APEX. As part of Onsala Space Observatory, GARD collaborates with astronomers to design future instruments for exploring the universe's greatest questions.

Project overview
Developing multipixel heterodyne receivers is essential for advancing astronomical and atmospheric research. These receivers enable simultaneous observation across multiple frequency bands, increasing data acquisition rates and telescope capabilities. This technology ensures efficient use of observation time, especially during limited THz observation windows. It also introduces multi-color operations, enhancing detailed mapping of the interstellar medium and improving atmospheric monitoring for understanding star formation and atmospheric chemistry.

This PhD project aims to develop an advanced terahertz multi-pixel heterodyne receiver using SIS and HEB technologies. The focus is on integrating broadband capabilities within the receiver design for efficient operation across terahertz frequencies, addressing complexities in developing advanced broadband terahertz waveguides and layouts, and overcoming challenges related to signal attenuation, diffraction limits, and thermal noise. Achieving compact, efficient designs for cryogenic environments is crucial for practical applications in radio astronomy.

Major responsibilities
As a PhD student, you will conduct research involving electromagnetic simulation, fabrication, and experimental measurements. You will develop scientific concepts and communicate findings both verbally and in writing. The position includes teaching responsibilities at the undergraduate level, accounting for approximately 20% of your time. A collaborative spirit, self-motivation, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving capabilities are essential.

Read more about doctoral studies at Chalmers here.


Qualifications



• Master’s degree (240 credits or equivalent) in electrical engineering, applied physics, or materials science, with above-average grades.
• Proficiency in English, both written and oral.
• Hands-on experience in electromagnetics or high-frequency electronics modeling.
• High motivation and effective teamwork skills.
• Preferred backgrounds: microwave electronics, electromagnetics, semiconductor physics, microfabrication, low-temperature physics, or superconducting electronics.
• Experience with microwave instruments, micro/nanofabrication techniques, and simulations using HFSS, CST, or ADS is highly regarded.
• Proficiency in Swedish is a plus.

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

We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with reference number 20240306 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.

CV: (Please name the document: CV, Family name, reference number)
• CV
• Other, for example previous employments or leadership qualifications and positions of trust.
• Two references that we can contact.

Personal letter: (Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, ref.number)
1-3 pages where you:
• Introduce yourself
• Describe your previous experience of relevance for the position (e.g. education, thesis work and, if applicable, any other research activities)
• Describe your future goals and future research focus

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

Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. 

Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered.

Application deadline: 2024-06-27

For questions, please contact:
Ass. Prof. François Joint
joint@chalmers.se


*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 
   



Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our six Areas of Advance; Energy, Health Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Materials Science, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!