PhD student position in Physics

Information about the research and the project
Neurodegenerative diseases are a great challenge in healthcare. The origin to these diseases are complex, spanning from the molecular level to systemic cellular processes, and causes malfunctioning of signaling in the central nervous system (CNS). Signaling in CNS includes the coupled processing of biochemical and electrical entities. However, today’s approaches for relief of symptoms, palliative care, and suggested future therapeutics are typically based on biochemical approaches. Here we are to develop organic electronics, in vivo-manufactured within brain tissue, to enable an electronic neuro-pharmaceutical approach for future symptom suppression and therapy of targeted diseases.

The main goal is to develop knowledge about the micro- and nanostructure of in vivo-manufactured electronic neuro-pharmaceuticals and its relationship with physical properties, such as conductivity and electronic performance using advanced high spatial resolution transmission electron microscopy and spectroscopy. In addition, we need information about both surface and sub-surface structures. Transmission electron microscopy is unique, since it gives information about structure on the micro-, nano-, atom-, and subatom- scales. It can be used in the imaging, diffraction and spectroscopy mode. One challenge with polymers is that they are prone to damage during interaction with electron beam. Though, there are procedures (energy and dose) to limit those interactions and we have developed a knowledge platform for the high resolution characterisation of polymers.

The work is carried out within a of a strategic research environment with groups from Chalmers, Linköping University and Lund University. We are to develop materials, devices and electronic systems, based on organic electronics that is in vivo-manufactured within brain tissue. The long-term goal is to enable a novel electronic neuropharmacology platform for future therapy and symptom suppression of neurodegenerative diseases. The research field is very much unexplored today, but highly demanded from both a scientific and a healthcare point of view.

Major responsibilities
Your major responsibility is to pursue the goals of your research project. You are also expected to develop own ideas and find your own ways in tackling research challenges. The position may also include some level of teaching duties as well as taking part in the supervision of bachelor and master students. Another important aspect involves national and international collaboration with experimental research groups.

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

Qualifications
To qualify as a PhD student, you should hold a Master's degree in physics and have a strong interest in advanced microscopy and spectroscopy to correlate material structure to properties. You should also enjoy working in a collaborative environment including interactions with both theoreticians and experimentalists. The position requires sound verbal and written communication skills in English. Chalmers offers Swedish courses.

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 deadline: The position is open until filled. The review of applications is done continuously.

APPLY HERE

For questions, please contact:
Professor Eva Olsson
Nano and Biophysics
E-mail: eva.olsson@chalmers.se
Phone: +46 31-772 3247

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