PhD student position in quantum transport theory

Gothenburg Physics Centre is a collaboration platform for the four departments Applied Physics, Earth & Space Sciences, Physics, Microtechnology & Nanoscience at Chalmers University of Technology, and the department of Physics at the University of Gothenburg. The Gothenburg Physics Centre houses about 200 professors, 200 researchers with a PhD degree, 140 graduate students, and 550 undergraduate students. We have a common goal to encourage and develop the cooperation within the areas of academic research, teaching and outreach activities between the departments in order to create a stimulating work environment for researchers as well as students.

Quantum transport theory for superconducting spintronics
We are seeking applicants for a PhD position in theoretical physics. The research will be directed towards quantum transport theory for superconducting spintronics. During the last decade, a research field has emerged where spintronics and superconductivity are combined through the production of spin-polarized supercurrents in nanoscale devices of superconducting and magnetic materials. Recent experimental progress in producing such spin-polarized supercurrents has motivated a theoretical effort to understand non-equilibrium spin and charge dynamics. In particular, the question arises how to efficiently generate and detect spin-polarized triplet Cooper pairs. The aim is to explore this novel dynamics and to both explain experimental data as well as suggesting new experimental setups.

About the Department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience (MC2)
The Department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience (MC2) focuses on research, innovation and education within the fields of future electronics, photonics, bio- and nanosystems. As part of Chalmers Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Area of Advance, we foster close collaboration with Swedish and international partners within academy, industry and society. This enables scientific excellence and creates an innovative environment. In addition to the 200 researchers and PhD students, MC2 houses a cleanroom for micro- and nanofabrication with the latest equipment.

At the Applied Quantum Physics Laboratory (AQP lab), we work on theoretical aspects of future high-performance nano-electronic systems. Our research covers a broad spectrum of problems, everything from the fundamental problems to the very applied ones.

Our major research interests cover mesoscopic superconductivity and transport in nanostructures, molecular electronics, graphene electronics, and quantum information processing with superconducting electronics.

Major responsibilities
The goal with a PhD-position is to develop general research proficiency and a high competence within your specific research area. As a PhD-student, you will primarily conduct research, often together with other researchers and PhD-students. You will also follow PhD courses, be involved in teaching activities or other departemental duties, and participate in international conferences and networks. You are expected to develop your own scientific concepts and communicate the results of your research verbally and in writing.

Position summary
Full-time temporary employment. The employment is composed of a maximum of four years full-time of doctoral studies plus a maximum of one year of department duties, including teaching, equivalent to a maximum of 20 % of the total working time. The employment is thus limited to a maximum of five years. The employment is tied to successful completion of department evaluations after one and three 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 good communication skills in written and spoken English. Applicants who do not have English or a Scandinavian language as their mother tongue need to provide documentation of good communication skills in English, typically evidenced by an English language test, for example TOEFL 550 (paper-based)/TOEFL 213 (computer-based), and exemplified during the interview process prior to admission.

Meritorious experiences and skills:
Theoretical: quantum physics, quantum field theory, solid-state physics, and superconductivity.
Experience with numerical modeling for simulations on both CPUs and GPUs.

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

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20160177 and written in English.

To submit your application, please visit: Vacancies

Application deadline: May 31, 2016

For questions, please contact:
Assoc. Prof. Tomas Löfwander, MC2/AQP, tomas.lofwander@chalmers.se,+46-31-7728031

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