Postdoc in Atom probe tomography studies of novel multifunctional carbides

Department of Physics at Chalmers
Stimulated by major needs and challenges in science and a sustainable society, the ambition of the department of Physics is to foster a creative environment for academic research, learning and outreach. We provide a competitive advantage by linking our 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 such as graphene 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.

The department is the major part of Gothenburg Physics Centre – a collaboration between five departments at Chalmers and Gothenburg University. One of the other departments is Microtechnology and Nanoscience – MC2.

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Information about the research
The work is a part of an interdisciplinary research program aiming at exploring the novel classes of carbon and carbide based materials and is financed by Swedish Foundation for Strategic Research. The program team includes specialists on material synthesis, high-resolution characterisation and atomistic modelling. Krystyna Stiller and Mattias Thuvander are responsible for a work package on APT-characterisation and development of APT analysis of carbides. In this package the objective is to develop novel nanocomposites and metallic glasses based on transition metal carbides by designed alloying of the films to control phase composition, interface chemistry and thereby final chemical and physical properties of the films. APT will be used for sub-nm scale studies of material microchemistry, its development during fabrication, and changes during use. The work will require sample preparation using focused ion beam (FIB) methods. Close cooperation with thin film researchers at Uppsala University will be important.

The research will be performed at the Division of Materials Microstructure. The division’s research is focused on understanding the relation between material properties and microstructure, and how the microstructure is affected by processing and how it evolves during operation. This is mainly achieved by applying advanced characterization tools, such as electron microscopy and atom probe tomography. Among the goals are to provide knowledge that can be used to develop new materials and optimize composition, production routes, heat treatment etc.

Major responsibilities
As post-doc in this cooperative project you will take responsibility for performing atom probe tomography experiments, evaluate the data and present it to the project group. The position also includes introducing PhD students into atom probe tomography.

Position summary
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of two years (1+1).

Qualifications
To qualify for the position postdoc you must have a doctoral degree in physics, chemistry or materials science. 

Expert knowledge in atom probe tomography including sample preparation using FIB/SEM. Good communication and collaboration skills.

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 20160469 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically via Chalmers webpage.


Application deadline: 15 December 2016

For questions, please contact:
Professor, Krystyna Stiller,
Materials Microstructure
stiller@chalmers.se,
+46 31-772 3320

Associate professor, Mattias Thuvander,
Materials Microstructure,
mattias.thuvander@chalmers.se,
+46 31-772 3322

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



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