PhD student position in modelling of graphene-based sensors

Stimulated by major needs and challenges in science and society, our ambition is to foster a creative environment for academic research, teaching and outreach. We provide a competitive advantage by linking top-level international and interdisciplinary academic performance in the areas of material science, nanotechnology and energy research with world-leading industrial R&D&I projects.

We address a wide array of experimental, computational, methodological and theoretical challenges, from fundamental physics research, through the development of new materials to direct industrial projects generating new inventions. We have a strong learning commitment on all levels from undergraduate to PhD studies where physics meet engineering.

We are situated in a stimulating and creative environment with 200 physics teachers and researchers, 120 PhD students and 550 undergraduate students.
Information about the division
The Condensed Matter Theory (CMT) group consists of four professors, one associate professor, two assistant professors, one postdoctoral researchers and  seven PhD-students. In recent years, the focus of the research have been on theoretical models of fundamental and applied aspects of nanoelectromechanical systems based on carbon nanotubes and, in recent years, graphene. Other research directions focus on plasma physics and metamaterials. As the group participates in several national and international research projects together with leading experimental groups in the field, we aim at research of the highest international quality with a strong relevance to experiments and future applications. This position will be financed by the Graphene Flagship.

Major responsibilities
The successful candidate is expected to work with theoretical modelling of graphene based sensor applications within the sensor workpackage in the upcoming Graphene Flagship. Sensor applications that will be in the focus of the research are nanoelectromechanical mass sensing applications where an increased understanding of adsorbate adsorption, diffusion and overall effect of adsorbants on the electromechanical response of the resonators. However, also other types of graphene based sensors (optical, electrical) may be included in the work.

The research field involves elements from many branches of physics (solid mechanics, statistical physics, electron transport, electrodynamics, quantum mechanics) and leads to a strong foundation to stand on should the student wish to continue in an academic career. Your major responsibilities as PhD student is to pursue your own doctoral studies. You are expected to develop your own scientific concepts and communicate, in English, 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.

Positions 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. The position requires sound verbal and written communication skills in English.

Apart from a completed MSc in Physics or equivalent, the applicant must have completed undergraduate courses covering 



• Real and complex mathematical analysis and mathematical physics

• Statistical physics/thermodynamics

• Mechanics

• Quantum mechanics

• Active and passive electrical circuit theory

• Electrodynamics

• Solid state/condensed matter physics

As part of the work is numerical in nature, proficiency is required in using



• Computer programming languages (C/C++, Fortran, or similar)

• Mathematical software (Matlab, Mathematica or similar)

Useful, but not mandatory skills are,



• Knowledge of or experience with sensor technology.

Application deadline: 2013-09-30

For questions, please contact:
Associate Professor Andreas Isacsson
andreas.isacsson@chalmers.se
+46 31 772 3187




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


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 eight Areas of Advance; Built Environment, Energy, Information & Communication Technology, Life Science, Materials Science, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, 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 10,000 students and 2,900 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!