PhD in Strain tuning of HTS thin films for clean energy

Information about the project
In cuprate High critical temperature superconductors (HTS) the superconductive phenomenon emerges from a metallic state, named “strange metal”, with properties that cannot be accounted for by conventional condensed matter theories. The highest superconductive temperature in HTS corresponds to the region of doping where the strange metal phase is most robust. It is believed that the route towards room temperature superconductivity goes through the understanding of the physics principles governing the strange metal phase, still unkown.

Our group has recently achieved research breakthroughs by using the strain induced by the substrate to tune the properties of the strange metal phase and of the superconductive state. The focus of the PHD position will be to go beyond conventional strain modification by patterning periodic nanostructures on the surface of the substrate. Nm thick films of HTS superconductors will be strongly affected by the superstructure which will change the ground state, possibly giving hints on how to increase the superconducting critical temperature towards room temperature.

Within this project, the student will lead this new experimental approach which will involve nanostructuring of substrates, thin film deposition and transport properties of nanoscale devices. We have a strong consortium consisting of expertise in superconducting materials (Chalmers), which can benefit from the theoretical support of various national (KTH, Uppsala, Chalmers) and international collaborations. The research is conducted at the Department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience – MC2. MC2 is a unique research department in the areas of micro- and nano-technology, housing more than 200 employees and PhD students. The research focus at MC2 is future nano- and quantum electronics, high speed electronics and photonics, and bio- and nano-systems.

Major responsibilities
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. The position generally also includes teaching on Chalmers' undergraduate level or performing other duties corresponding to 20 percent of working hours.

Qualifications
To qualify as a PhD student, you must have a master's level degree corresponding to at least 240 higher education credits with a strong background in Physics and Engineering.

Applicants should ideally have:
- Performed high-quality research in the area of nanoelectronics
- Experience in nanofabrication of electronic devices (cleanroom environment)
- Experience in growth of thin films/nanoribbons
- Experience in low-level electronic measurements at cryogenic temperatures
- Strong inner driving force and capabilities for independent work
- Excellent collaboration skills in a research team
- Potential to reach excellence in the research field

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

The position requires sound verbal and written communication skills in English. If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses.

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.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20230373 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, Ref. 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.

Please use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. 

Application deadline: July 1, 2023

For questions, please contact:
Floriana Lombardi
Email: Floriana.lombardi@chalmers.se
Tel: +46 31-772 3318

Thilo Bauch
Email: thilo.bauch@chalmers.se
Tel: +46 31-772 3397

*** 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!