PhD student position in Materials Physics

A PhD student position is available in the Department of Physics at Karlstad University in Sweden.Electrical and mechanical properties of nanoscale structures (ref.FAK2 2007/26, admission 2007-09-01, or as agreed) The studies will focus on the experimental investigations of nanostructured materials such as carbon nanotubes and nanorods of semiconductors.These materials have promising electrical and mechanical properties that make them suited for incorporation in future electronic devices such as electromechanical nanorelays.The project aims at investigating fundamental properties such as electron transport and the influence of mechanical stress.The experimental methods that will be used are recently developed instruments that combine scanning probe microscopies (AFM and STM) with transmission electron microscopy (TEM).This enables manipulation and characterization with simultaneous imaging at an atomic level.Most of the work will be carried out at Karlstad University, with a close collaboration with Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg for use of the instruments available there.Qualifications: For this position a Bachelor's degree in Physics (180 ECTS) is required, or an equivalent degree, with a specialisation in a field relevant to this project.We welcome applicants with a Master's degree in Physics or Engineering Physics, or equivalent.If you have a M.Sc.degree in a different subject than physics, at least 90 ECTS credits in physics are required, or equivalent.Relevant practical experience with experimental equipment is an asset. Admission: On the basis of individual assessment.Your application should contain a cover letter, detailing your motivation to apply for this position, and the following attachments: CV, copies of certificates of education and other merits, list of courses taken, including grades and dates, information about your language skills (e.g.Toefl test results), as well as reference letters or the contact details of two reference persons.Do not forget to include a copy of your diploma thesis or any published scientific papers in your application.More Information: Krister Svensson, tel.A short overview in English about doctoral studies at Karlstad University can be found at http://www.kau.se/research/education.lasso.More information is available in Swedish at http://www.kau.se/forskning/forskarutbildning/var_forskarutbildning.lasso. Application: Please send your application, indicating reference number (FAK2 2007/26), to Faculty for Technology and Science, Karlstad University, SE-651 88 Karlstad, Sweden for arrival no later than June 1st, 2007.