Postdoc in Nanoscale HTS quantum devices

We are seeking applicants for a postdoctoral position in experimental physics. The research will deal with the deposition and characterization of very thin films, down to nanoscale thicknesses, and nanostructures made of the High critical Temperature Superconductor (HTS) YBa2Cu3O7-x (YBCO). The goal is to get deeper insights into the microscopic mechanism behind high critical temperature superconductivity, which is still unknown. 

Information about the division
The research at the Quantum Device Physics Laboratory (QDP) extends over a variety of different topics. Altogether, the QDP lab focuses on studying nano electronic components beyond classical electrodynamics and explores possibilities to make quantum mechanical effects useful in practical devices. The Quantum Materials and Nanoscale devices group has its origin in superconductivity and superconducting electronics and has moved towards oxide-based materials, such as ceramic superconductors, and more recently Topological Insulators. Present activities include basic thin film growth and material studies to form the basic building blocks both for fundamental investigations as well as for devices with quantum limited sensitivity and operation up to terahertz frequencies.

Major responsibilities
At nm thicknesses strain effects in thin films can strongly modify the ground of these materials and change the transport properties of the devices.  One aspect of the project will be to use different substrates to induce various strains in the nm thin films as a function of the oxygen doping and to study the influence on the transport properties by temperature dependent measurements of the longitudinal and Hall resistivity down to mK temperature. The focus will be also on the realization and optimization of YBCO nanowire-based nano-SQUID sensors. Such devices have the potential to be implemented as highly sensitive magnetic field detectors in a rather broad field of application ranging from bio-medical tools to geophysical surveys. In this project they will be used for basic physics studies to reveal the new superconducting state induced by strain. YBCO nanowire-based devices will be also used to study thermal and electronic transport properties on length scales were various nanoscale ordering phenomena, such as charge density wave, nematicity, and loop currents among others, occur. The investigation of the transport properties of these structures will help to elucidate the connection between the various local orders and the superconducting phenomenon, possibly leading to a better understanding of the microscopic mechanisms responsible for HTS.

Qualifications
You must hold a PhD degree with strong background in Physics and Engineering; the degree should generally not be older than three years.

You should ideally have:
• Performed high-quality research in the area of thin films growth and nanoelectronics
• Experience in nanofabrication of electronic devices (cleanroom environment)
• Experience in low-level electronic measurements at cryogenic temperatures
• Strong inner driving force and capabilities for independent work
• Excellent collaboration skills in a research team
• Potential to reach excellence in the research field
• Fluent in English, both oral and written skills
• Swedish skills or an intention to learn Swedish

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

We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20210415 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as pdf-files, as below:

CV: (Please name the document as: CV, Surname, Ref. number) including:
• CV, include complete list of publications
• Previous teaching and pedagogical experiences
• Two references that we can contact.

Personal letter: (Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, Ref. number)
1-3 pages where you:
• Introduce yourself
• Describe your previous research fields and main research results
• Describe your future goals and future research focus

Other documents:
• Attested copies of completed education, grades and other certificates.

Please use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. The files may be compressed (zipped).

Application deadline: 7 October, 2021

For questions, please contact:
Floriana Lombardi
E-mail: floriana.lombardi@chalmers.se
Phone: +46 31 7723318

Thilo Bauch
E-mail: bauch@chalmers.se
Phone: +46 31 7723397

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



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 six Areas of Advance; Energy, Health Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Materials Science, 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 11,000 students and 3,000 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!