Published: 2023-09-27

The research conducted at the Department of Physics and Astronomy encompasses a wide range of physics topics, distributed over ten divisions. The department is located in the Ångström laboratory and employs nearly 400 people, 125 of whom are doctoral students. It offers a broad physics curriculum to undergraduate and graduate students, participation in nationally and internationally leading projects for researchers, and opportunities for partnership with industry and various outreach activities.

Webpages: www.physics.uu.se, www.ill.eu, www.isis.co.uk

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University

Duties
The project is focused on developing neutron reflectivity methodology, utilising magnetic reference layers. It is a part of the operation of the Super ADAM infrastructure as well as a collaboration efforts with Linköping University, Lund University and ISIS, UK.

We are looking for postdoctoral fellow which will be driving the development of magnetic reference layers, using PVD techniques. The characterisation of the layers will be based on x-ray diffraction and reflectivity as well as magnetisation measurements.

We envisage that the postdoc has some experience of neutron scattering techniques. The intended use of the magnetic contrast layers includes soft matter/life science systems. Understanding of off-specular/grazing incidence neutron scattering would therefore be particularly advantageous. 

The postdoctoral position requires visits of ILL, Grenoble, France and ISIS in the United Kingdom.

Requirements
Applicants must hold a PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science or a similar area of science.  Excellent experimental skills are indispensable as well as very good communication.

A strong background in sample growth and characterisation using scattering techniques is required. Good computer skills and knowledge and skills within neutron scattering and mathematics are further merits. Excellent knowledge of English, writing and speaking, is required.  Eagerness to learn Swedish is assumed for non-Swedish speaking candidate.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position of 2 years according to central collective agreement. The employment may be extended for another year. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date 8 January 2024 or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala

Application procedure
Your application must include a personal letter with a short description of yourself and the reasons why you are interested in the position. You must also include a CV, authorized copies of degrees and diplomas, copies of your PhD thesis and other documents, such as publications, that you want to invoke. Names and contact details of at least two scientists that have offered to act as references for you must also be included, with a clear indication of their relationship to you.

For further information about the position, please contact: Björgvin Hjörvarsson (bjorgvin.hjorvarsson@physics.uu.se, +46 (0) 18 471 3837) or Jos Cooper (jos.cooper@stfc.ac.uk).

Please submit your application by 16 October 2023, UFV-PA 2023/3520.

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? Find out more about what it´s like to work and live in Sweden.  

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international position. The ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a difference in society. Our most important asset is all of our 7,500 employees and 54,000 students who, with curiosity and commitment, make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting workplaces.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University
https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/

Please do not send offers of recruitment or advertising services.

Submit your application through Uppsala University’s recruitment system.

Deadline: 2023-10-16 at 23:59
Unit: Department of Physics and Astronomy

Read the job description at the university homepage or apply.

Post expires on Monday October 16th, 2023

Published: 2023-09-26

Postdoctoral position in  applied nuclear physics with specialization on the development of analysis methodologies for nuclear safeguards

Are you interested in working with international research in the non-proliferation and safeguards field, with the support of competent and friendly colleagues in an international environment? Are you looking for an employer that invests in sustainable employeeship and offers safe, favourable working conditions? We welcome you to apply for a postdoc position at Uppsala University.

The research conducted at the Department of Physics and Astronomy encompasses a wide range of physics topics, distributed over nine divisions. The department is located in the Ångström laboratory and employs nearly 400 people, 100 of whom are doctoral students. It offers a broad physics curriculum to undergraduate and graduate students, participation in nationally and internationally leading projects for researchers, and opportunities for partnership with industry and various outreach activities. Read more on www.physics.uu.se

In the division of applied nuclear physics at the Department of physics and Astronomy, research in non-proliferation and safeguards is being conducted. The reserach aims at developing methodologies and techniques to deter from the spread of nuclear weapons and equip international organs and national regulators with tools needed to ensure the peaceful applications of nuclear technology. The reserach is developed towards a number of applications such as verification of irradiated nuclear fuel using non-destructive assay methods; development and use of machine learning in nuclear safeguards; and research on methods and analysis techniques that strengthens nuclear safeguards in future nuclear energy systems.

Duties
The postdoc will conduct research on nuclear safeguards for existing and future nuclear energy systems. The research will contribute to the development of instrumentation and analysis methodologies that can be used by regulators to verify nuclear material in agreement with international treaties and national law. Research on verification of fuel before encapsulation and final storage is in focus, as is nuclear safeguards verification of fuel in future nuclear energy systems.

The research, which is partly funded by the Swedish regulator, builds on previous research in the research group and concerns further development of measurement approaches and analysis methodologies. The research is based on the use of traditional analysis methods as well as on the development of approaches using machine learning methods.

The research and development work concerning verification of fuel from existing reactors will include simulations of source terms as well analysis of emitted and detected radiation. The research also includes analysis of the radiation signatures to draw conclusion about properties of the irradiated nuclear fuel. With respect to future nuclear energy systems, this will include research on nuclear safeguards for small modular reactors and well as Generation IV systems. The research on small modular reactors is partly connected to the recently established competence centre ANItA, focussed on the deployment of small modular reactors in Sweden, while the Gen IV builds on ongoing research activities focussed on molten salt reactors (MSR). The MSR research will be performed in collaboration with external partners and vendors developing such reactors. It is also expected that the postdoc will perform research on a system level using for instance the PR&PP (proliferation resistance and physical protection) method, as well as analysis of material streams and material composition for future verification.

The postdoc is expected to participate in a number of different collaborations of varying size. These collaborations include the ANItA consortium, international research collaborations and interaction with operators, vendors and regulators.  It is also expected that the postdoc will participate in fuel measurements, should such opportunities present themselves.

The research results will be published in peer-reviewed scientific journals, and in international and national conferences and meetings.

The postdoc will mainly perform research. Departmental duties on the level of 20% may be included.

Requirements
PhD degree in physics or a foreign degree equivalent to a PhD degree in physics. The degree needs to be obtained by the time of the decision of employment. Those who have obtained a PhD degree three years prior to the application deadline are primarily considered for the employment. The starting point of the three-year frame period is the application deadline. Due to special circumstances, the degree may have been obtained earlier. The three-year period can be extended due to circumstances such as sick leave, parental leave, duties in labour unions, etc.

In addition, it is required that the applicant has:

• Research experience and published scientific merits in the form of peer-reviewed journal publication and conference proceedings in the field of nuclear safeguards or other relevant fields.
• Programming experience of particle simulations using Monte Carlo codes, such as Serpent, MCNP and Geant,
• Experience of object-oriented programming, such as Python.
• Excellent communication skills in written and oral English.
• Capability of performing both independent research and of interacting and collaborating with colleagues locally as well as internationally.
• Ability to teach in Swedish and/or English.

Additional qualifications
Special attention will be paid to the scientific merits. Qualifications in nuclear safeguards and specifically in nuclear safeguards verification of irradiated nuclear fuel is meriting, as will experience of working with non-destructive assay methods for safeguards verification of irradiated nuclear fuel. Knowledge about and experience of working with light water reactor systems and molten salt reactor systems is considered a merit, as is experience of working with the development and/or application of machine learning methods in nuclear safeguards research. Experience of working with external partners such as nuclear operators, vendors and waste management companies is also meriting.

Teaching experience is also meriting, as it will be possible to teach on a level of 20% in this position.

Application
The application, written in Swedish or English, shall include:

• A personal letter,
• curriculum vitae,
• a copy of the PhD certificate including grades, or information about when this will be available,
• a copy of or link to the PhD thesis
• contact information to two references, one of which must be from the academy,
• information on personal circumstances that may impact the evaluation,
• list of publications, and
• any other information that may be relevant for the position.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position of three years according to central collective agreement. Full time position. Starting date 8 January or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala

For further information about the position, please contact: Sophie Grape, sophie.grape@physics.uu.se, +4618-471 5842

Please submit your application by 16 October 2023, UFV-PA 2023/3441

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? Find out more about what it´s like to work and live in Sweden.

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international position. The ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a difference in society. Our most important asset is all of our 7,500 employees and 54,000 students who, with curiosity and commitment, make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting workplaces.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University
https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/

Please do not send offers of recruitment or advertising services.

Submit your application through Uppsala University’s recruitment system.

Deadline: 2023-10-16 at 23:59
Unit: Department of Physics and Astronomy

Read the job description at the university homepage or apply.

Post expires on Monday October 16th, 2023

Published: 2023-08-28

PhD student in Computational Mechanics: fracture modelling of batteries over length and time scales

at the Department of Applied Mechanics, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ångström Laboratory.

Admission to PhD education in the subject Engineering Sciences with specialisation in Applied Mechanics

The position is based at the Division of Applied Mechanics (TIM), Department of Material Science and Engineering, and is conducted in collaboration with the Department of Chemistry. We work with research in material mechanics with applications primarily in the life sciences, materials and structure development and energy-related areas. The research conducted is often multidisciplinary and ranges from applied projects in collaboration with industry to fundamental academic research. A doctorate in the subject guarantees many exciting future opportunities both in academia and industry, nationally and internationally.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University

Project description

In service, significant deformations develop in lithium-ion battery electrodes during cycling, resulting in microscopic cracks leading to decreased capacity and battery lifespan. The understanding of why, where and how these cracks develop and grow is limited. In this joint research project, conducted at the interface between mechanics and chemistry, we use multiphysics computer models to study deformation mechanisms in battery electrodes, supported by highly resolved synchrotron X-ray CT crack experiments. The project is expected to increase the understanding of battery cracking and its dependency on electrode morphology, particle positions and electrochemical cycling, and open for a design change of the electrode microstructure to increase batteries capacity and lifespan. The project is thus a vital contribution to the development of tomorrow’s batteries. 

Duties
The main duties for a doctoral student are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

Your duties include studying cracking phenomena in lithium batteries in multiscale multiphysics numerical fracture models, performing X-ray CT crack experiments in synchrotrons and in-house experiments at the Ångström Laboratory. The work takes place in an international environment and you are expected to publish the result of your studies in scientific journals and present them at international conferences. You are supervised by researchers in both mechanics and chemistry, but also collaborate with junior researchers in related projects.

Requirements

Master’s degree with studies in physics, mechanics, high-precision computing, or related fields. We require good knowledge of English, both oral and in writing.

Additional qualifications

Documented experience in one or more of the following will be considered a merit:

• programming experience (e.g. fortran, python)
• continuum mechanics
• thermodynamics
• finite element theories
• mechanical experiments
• Strong interest in numerical simulations

To meet the entry requirements for doctoral studies, you must

• hold a Master’s (second-cycle) degree or
• have completed at least 240 credits in higher education, with at least 60 credits at Master’s level including an independent project worth at least 15 credits, or
• have acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way.

Rules governing PhD students are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University’s rules and guidelines.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date xx or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala

Your application must include:

1. A short letter describing yourself, how your background matches the position and why you want to do a doctorate.
2. CV (max. 2 pages)
3. A copy of your master’s degree and your course transcript (list and grades)
4. A copy of your bachelor’s degree and your course transcript (list and grades)
5. Names and contact details (address, e-mail address and telephone number) of at least two reference persons

For further information about the position, please contact: Frofessor Per Isaksson (per.isaksson@angstrom.uu.se) or Associate senior lecturer/Assistant Professor Guiomar Hernández (guiomar.hernandez@kemi.uu.se).

Please submit your application by 23 of October 2023, UFV-PA 2023/3113

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? Find out more about what it´s like to work and live in Sweden.  

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international position. The ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a difference in society. Our most important asset is all of our 7,500 employees and 54,000 students who, with curiosity and commitment, make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting workplaces.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University
https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/

Please do not send offers of recruitment or advertising services.

Submit your application through Uppsala University’s recruitment system.

Deadline: 2023-10-23 at 23:59
Unit: Department of Materials Science and Engineering

Read the job description at the university homepage or apply.

Post expires on Monday October 23rd, 2023

Published: 2023-09-22

Researcher in two-dimensional (2D) and complex oxide quantum material devices

The research conducted at the Department of Physics and Astronomy encompasses a wide range of physics topics, distributed over nine divisions. The department is located in the Ångström laboratory and employs nearly 400 people, 100 of whom are doctoral students. It offers a broad physics curriculum to undergraduate and graduate students, participation in nationally and internationally leading projects for researchers, and opportunities for partnership with industry and various outreach activities. Read more on www.physics.uu.se. Here, the program Condensed Matter Physics of Energy Materials research aims to develop an understanding of electronic properties at the atomic level and new functional materials for energy and environmental applications.

Forskningsgrupp: The Quantum Material Device group at Uppsala University is funded by the European Research Council (ERC) and the Knut and Alice Wallenberg (KAW) Foundation to push the boundaries of quantum materials research. The group’s overarching research focuses on developing innovative quantum material devices, investigating charge, spin, and orbital quantum phenomena, and exploring their potential for various applications such as energy-efficient memory and logic devices, flexible spintronic devices, novel quantum sensors, and intelligent spin-integrated and neuromorphic circuits. The group employs two-dimensional (2D) crystals such as graphene, 2D semiconductors such as dichalcogenides MoS2 and MoSe2, 2D insulators like hexagonal boron nitride, and special laminates and precisely angle-oriented 2D van der Waal heterostructures. Experiments involve comprehensive low-temperature (down to 10 millikelvins) charge, spin (orbital) transport, and magneto-optics to uncover novel ordering, exotic charge and spin phenomena, and emergent physics. These experiments are enabled by developing custom-built in-house instrumentation and precision measurement techniques.

Duties

The position is linked to the ERC project SPINNER. The successful applicant is expected to take responsibility for strategic and administrative support of research and operations at the Quantum Material Devices group and laboratory. The duties consist of conducting research, assisting in group and laboratory tasks, managing assigned communications in collaborations, organizing seminars and group meetings, and assisting the group leader with various tasks.

Requirements

Ph.D. degree in physics, engineering, or equivalent. Well-documented research experience using magnetic oxides (insulators), 2D materials (graphene, hexagonal boron nitride), their integration techniques, and nanofabrication (thin films, nanopatterning in cleanroom-based techniques such as e-beam lithography and photolithography) using top-down and bottom-up techniques. Expertise in the characterization of thin films, expertise in magnetic and transport measurements, and handling physical or magnetic property measurement systems. 

Additional qualifications

• Knowledge of charge, spin, and orbital phenomena relevant to the hetero-interface of magnetic-insulator-2D materials, along with solid writing & data analysis skills pertinent to the project.
• Flexibility and availability as per the needs of the project.
• Service-oriented attitude, where teamwork and team growth are valued. Strong emphasis is placed on personal suitability, personal qualities such as flexibility, teamwork, willingness to develop and apply new technologies, laboratory technology orientation, accuracy, drive, organizational skills, and self-motivation.

About the application 

The application should contain a letter describing the applicant and her/his qualifications, suitability for the position, and research interests. It should contain a CV, copies of relevant degrees, contact information for at least two reference persons, and a complete publication list. Personal circumstances that may be relevant in the evaluation, for example, periods of parental leave/medical leave, should be mentioned in the CV.

About the employment

The employment is a permanent position (probationary period may be applied). Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date 1 November 2023 or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala

For further information about the position, please contact: Venkata Kamalakar Mutta, venkata.mutta@physics.uu.se

Please submit your application by 10 October 2023, UFV-PA 2023/3424.

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? Find out more about what it´s like to work and live in Sweden.

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international position. The ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a difference in society. Our most important asset is all of our 7,500 employees and 54,000 students who, with curiosity and commitment, make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting workplaces.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University
https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/

Please do not send offers of recruitment or advertising services.

Submit your application through Uppsala University’s recruitment system.

Deadline: 2023-10-10 at 23:59
Unit: Department of Physics and Astronomy

Read the job description at the university homepage or apply.

Post expires on Tuesday October 10th, 2023

Published: 2023-09-20

Within the Division for applied nuclear physics, Department of Physics and Astronomy, research is conducted in the field of fission diagnostics and nuclear safeguards. The safeguards research is focused on i) safeguards verification of spent nuclear fuel using non-destructive assay techniques, ii) use of machine learning methods to support nuclear safeguards and iii) research on instrumentation, methods and approaches to support the development of appropriate nuclear safeguards measures for new nuclear energy systems.

The research group has for a long time been collaborating with various nuclear industries in Sweden, to ensure the relevance and applicability of the safeguards research to real-world issues. The Swedish nuclear waste management company SKB is together with its Finnish counterpart at the forefront of the construction of a final repository for high level nuclear waste.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University

Duties
The project is devoted to research on safeguards aspect related to the verification of spent nuclear fuel prior to encapsulation and final disposal. In Sweden, the company SKB is responsible for the encapsulation and final disposal, and currently the facilities are being designed. However, no geological repository is yet in operation, and there is no experience of safeguards measurements and safeguards verification prior to encapsulation and disposal. In fact, such measurements mark the last point in time where the spent fuel is accessible for measurements, which puts stringent requirements on the accuracy and thoroughness of the safeguards verification measurements. Due to the throughput of the planned encapsulation facility in Sweden and the required measurement times, it is foreseen the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), responsible for performing the safeguards evaluation, will share measurement equipment and data with SKB. Thus, the measurement station must provide both operational data to SKB and nuclear safeguards relevant data to the IAEA. In addition, the national regulator Strålsäkerhetsmyndigheten (SSM) may also require access to the data and analysis results.   

This research project is a collaboration between Uppsala University and SKB, in which we plan to design a measurement station to measure the radiation emissions from the spent nuclear fuel in order to characterize it. The performance of the developed measurement station will be evaluated for both operator and regulator needs. The goal of this project is to propose a first design of a measurement station that fulfills the requirements of all involved parties. The project includes evaluations of relevant detectors, studies of measurements to be done and research on possible analysis methodologies for assessing the performance of the selected systems. In the analysis methodology part of the project, the use of machine learning algorithms is foreseen, both for analysis of single detector measurement results, and to enable a systematic evaluation of multiple detector signals and measurement techniques simultaneously to more accurately characterize the spent fuel. The project will require significant Monte-Carlo simulations to be performed, both in order to characterize the designed measurement station, and evaluate its response to the inventory of spent nuclear fuel to be disposed of. This will include modelling of the fuel as a radiation source, radiation transport to the detectors, simulating the detector response and the analysis of the response to quantify the measurement performance.

Another part of the project is to investigate issues related to having two parties share one measurement station. In principle the IAEA wants to perform independent measurements using trusted software and hardware, to ensure that measurement results that are reliable and trustworthy. The sharing of one measurement station introduces issues with respect to hardware, software and signal authentication, tamper-resistance, and real-time transmission and analysis of the results during the encapsulation operation. A collaboration has been initiated with Sectra Communications, specializing in these types of security questions, which will provide input to the project. The project is funded by the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority, SSM

In addition to the research duties, the Ph.D. student may participate in teaching, for up to 20% of the time, which will prolong the project accordingly.

Requirements
To meet the entry requirements for doctoral studies, you must

• Hold a Master’s (second-cycle) degree in physics, nuclear physics, nuclear technology, or
• Have completed at least 240 credits in higher education, with at least 60 credits at Master’s level including an independent project worth at least 15 credits, or
• Have acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way
• Communicate well in English, both orally and in writing
• Personal maturity, confident and stable in your role.
• Good cooperation skills, able to work both independently and in groups.

In addition, you must be eligible to a personal licence for export-restricted codes such as MCNP, and for access to Swedish nuclear installations. This eligibility will be checked before admission to the doctoral studies.

Additional qualifications
The following qualifications are considered meriting:

• Knowledge and experience of nuclear energy systems such as light water reactors and advanced nuclear energy systems, and of the nuclear fuel cycle
• Experience with gamma and neutron detectors, measurements and measurement analysis
• Experience of nuclear engineering Monte-Carlo codes such as Serpent, MCNP and Geant and of modelling source terms as well as radiation detection
• Experience of numerical analysis work in Python, Matlab or similar
• Knowledge and experience of nuclear safeguards
• Experience in hardware and software security and authentication.
• Experience working with or developing of machine learning algorithms.

Rules governing PhD students are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University’s rules and guidelines.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date 8 January or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala

For further information about the position, please contact: Erik Branger, +4670-167 90 71, erik.branger@physics.uu.se

Please submit your application by 23 October 2023, UFV-PA 2023/3440.

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? Find out more about what it´s like to work and live in Sweden.  

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international position. The ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a difference in society. Our most important asset is all of our 7,500 employees and 54,000 students who, with curiosity and commitment, make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting workplaces.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University
https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/

Please do not send offers of recruitment or advertising services.

Submit your application through Uppsala University’s recruitment system.

Deadline: 2023-10-23 at 23:59
Unit: Department of Physics and Astronomy

Read the job description at the university homepage or apply.

Post expires on Monday October 23rd, 2023

Published: 2023-09-13

The research conducted at the Department of Physics and Astronomy encompasses a wide range of physics topics, distributed over nine divisions. The department is located in the Ångström laboratory and employs nearly 400 people, 100 of whom are doctoral students. It offers a broad physics curriculum to undergraduate and graduate students, participation in nationally and internationally leading projects for researchers, and opportunities for partnership with industry and various outreach activities. Read more on www.physics.uu.se

Uppsala University hereby declares a PhD student position, at the Department of Physics and Astronomy, to be open for application. The PhD-studies will focus on the investigation of the potential risk of radionuclides, specific to the European Spallation Source (ESS), entering the food chain through crops commonly cultivated in the farmlands surrounding the ESS site. 

About the project
Detailed studies will be undertaken to assess the potential radioactive releases from the ESS, a large neutron research facility under construction in Lund, Sweden. The ESS will produce neutrons using a powerful particle accelerator, impinging 2 GeV protons on a tungsten target. The nuclear reactions will also produce many radioactive by-products, such as isotopes of W, Hf, Ta, Gd and Lu. These radionuclides may be released in the environment after a severe accident, and be transferred from soil to plants cultivated in the local farmlands, with potentially harmful health effects.

The project will be jointly conducted by the Ion-physics group at Uppsala University (Sweden), Medical Radiation Physics Malmö at Lund University (Sweden), the Biotechnical Faculty at the University of Ljubljana (Slovenia), and the Department of Low and Medium Energy Physics at the Jožef Stefan Institute (Slovenia). The successful applicant will be based at the University of Uppsala, but is expected to spend time at all institutions involved in the project. The Ion-physics Group at Uppsala University employs beams of swift ions to study their interaction with materials in solid and gaseous forms at an atomic and molecular level. These methods permit the determination of concentrations and depth profiles of atoms and molecules in a material with very high accuracy for samples from biological, environmental and technological contexts. A 5 MV tandem accelerator, a 350 kV high current ion implanter and a Low-Energy Ion Scattering System form the experimental platform. The Environmental Radiology group at Medical Radiation Physics Malmö (Lund University) has extensive experience in the monitoring of radioactivity in the environment via in-situ and laboratory measurements but also through modelling and simulations. The group’s infrastructures include laboratories for the chemical preparation and the analysis of environmental samples by radiometric techniques. The group also has ongoing collaboration on environmental monitoring with the ESS and links to the Lund University research infrastructures (AMS, ICP-MS…). This group will also provide modelling of the radiation doses incurred by the consumption of crops contaminated by accident release from ESS. The Biotechnical Faculty of the University of Ljubljana, the largest Slovenian University, is a public education and research organisation with nine separate departments, together covering numerous life sciences disciplines. Plant growth facility and sample preparation equipment and expertise required for the execution of the project are available at the Department of Agronomy and the Department of Biology, respectively, where all plant material will be processed and prepared for further analyses. The Department of Low and Medium Energy Physics at the Jožef Stefan Institute, the leading Slovenian scientific research institute, manages the Microanalytical Centre where research with accelerated ion beams is conducted. Among ion beam analysis techniques available, micro-particle induced X-ray emission (micro-PIXE) end-station is routinely used to determine distribution of elements in biological tissues in a quantitative manner at micrometre resolution.  In addition, a table-top micro-XRF is available for larger scan areas when poorer resolution (>15 micrometre) suffices. Both apparatus will be used for the detection of elements and their allocation in plant tissues.

Work duties
The project crosses the fields of physics, chemistry and biology in a highly multidisciplinary and collaborative effort, combining sampling in the field, experimental work in the laboratory and modelling.

• Experiments will be conducted to determine the migration rate of W, Hf, Ta, Gd and Lu through the soil column after ground deposition of these metals.
• Experiments will be conducted to study the transfer of W, Hf, Ta, Gd and Lu, from the soil to the plant species that are commonly cultivated in the local farmlands.
• Environmental models will be developed to predict the dispersion of the EES-related W, Hf, Ta, Gd and Lu radioisotopes in case of accidental releases.
• Estimates of the dose received from food intake by an exposed population will be obtained for different accident scenarios.

Crops common to Southern Sweden (wheat, barley, rapeseed and sugarbeet), will be cultivated in contaminated soil near to the ESS site and harvested for analysis. Soil will be periodically collected from the contaminated site and analysed, to ascertain the migration of the contamination. The same crops will also be cultivated in a laboratory environment in Slovenia and harvested for analysis. The experimental data will be obtained using stable isotopes of W, Hf, Ta, Gd and Lu. Measurements on elemental concentrations in soil and plant samples will be performed by a variety of techniques, including nuclear-microprobe analysis, X-ray fluorescence, synchrotron radiation nano-X-ray fluorescence, scanning electron microscopy and inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The modelling work will be performed using the software Ecolego, that has already been used for the commissioning of nuclear installations in Sweden, including the ESS.

Requirements
To meet the entry requirements for doctoral studies, you must

• hold a Master’s (second-cycle) degree in natural science discipline, or
• have completed at least 240 credits in higher education, with at least 60 credits at Master’s level including an independent project worth at least 15 credits, or
• have acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way.
• be able to demonstrate excellent communication skills;

have excellent study merits; exhibit excellent skills in both oral and written English; be able and willing to travel, both nationally and internationally, on a regular basis.

Due to the emphasis on data collection through both field- and laboratory-work, practical skills will be attributed the highest priority.

Desirable / otherwise meritorious

• a background in either a Physics or an Environmental Science discipline;
• a strong interest in interdisciplinary research;
• strong data analysis skills;
• past experiences in modelling;

Rules governing PhD students are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University’s rules and guidelines.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date 8 January 2024 or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala

Instructions for application
Applications should include a brief description of research interest and past experience, a CV, copies of exams, degrees and grades, a copy of your Master thesis (or a draft thereof) and other relevant documents. The candidates are encouraged to provide letter(s) of recommendation and contact information to reference persons. 

For further information about the position, please contact: Robert Frost, rob.frost@physics.uu.se 

Please submit your application by 16 October 2023, UFV-PA 2023/3312.

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? Find out more about what it´s like to work and live in Sweden.

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international position. The ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a difference in society. Our most important asset is all of our 7,500 employees and 54,000 students who, with curiosity and commitment, make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting workplaces.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University
https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/

Please do not send offers of recruitment or advertising services.

Submit your application through Uppsala University’s recruitment system.

Deadline: 2023-10-16 at 23:59
Unit: Department of Physics and Astronomy

Read the job description at the university homepage or apply.

Post expires on Monday October 16th, 2023

Published: 2023-09-13

PhD student in two-dimensional quantum materials (MSCA COFUND project PRISMAS)

PRISMAS – PhD Research and Innovation in Synchrotron Methods and Applications in Sweden – is a new doctoral network training the next generation of 40 leading synchrotron experts and is co-funded by the Horizon Europe MSCA COFUND Programme. As a PRISMAS PhD student, you will have the chance to conduct cutting-edge research in your field, taking advantage of state-of-the-art tools that will lead to attractive future job opportunities in academia or industry. Moreover, you are part of designing the future of synchrotron technology and instrumentation and using these to tackle some of the most significant global challenges the world faces today while acquiring interdisciplinary and intersectoral knowledge. Being part of the PRISMAS programme gives you a one-of-a-kind experience in the form of a secondment at the world´s first 4th generation synchrotron, MAX IV in Lund, Sweden. With a tailored training programme, including courses to build scientific and technical competence as well as strengthen transferrable skills, PRISMAS provides you with the skills, knowledge and competence needed to successfully achieve your doctoral degree.

The MSCA COFUND project PRISMAS offers you outstanding opportunities as well as a stimulating and inspiring surrounding for performing cutting-edge research. By supporting your mobility, it creates perfect conditions for strengthening your international network.

The research conducted at the Department of Physics and Astronomy encompasses a wide range of physics topics, distributed over nine divisions. The department is located in the Ångström laboratory and employs nearly 400 people, 100 of whom are doctoral students. It offers a broad physics curriculum to undergraduate and graduate students, participation in nationally and internationally leading projects for researchers, and opportunities for partnership with industry and various outreach activities. Here, the program Condensed Matter Physics of Energy Materials research aims to develop an understanding of electronic properties at the atomic level and new functional materials for energy and environmental applications. Read more on www.physics.uu.se

The Quantum Material Device group at Uppsala University is funded by the European Research Council (ERC) and the Knut and Alice Wallenberg (KAW) Foundation to push the boundaries of quantum materials research. The group’s overarching research focuses on developing innovative quantum material devices, investigating charge, spin, and orbital quantum phenomena, and exploring their potential for various applications such as energy-efficient memory and logic devices, flexible spintronic devices, novel quantum sensors, and intelligent spin-integrated and neuromorphic circuits. The group employs two-dimensional (2D) crystals such as graphene, 2D semiconductors such as dichalcogenides MoS2 and MoSe2, 2D insulators like hexagonal boron nitride, and special laminates and precisely angle-oriented 2D van der Waal heterostructures. Experiments involve comprehensive low-temperature (down to 10 millikelvins) charge, spin (orbital) transport, and magneto-optics to uncover novel ordering, exotic charge and spin phenomena, and emergent physics. These experiments are enabled by developing custom-built in-house instrumentation and precision measurement techniques. In addition, the novel materials are also explored by advanced X-ray spectroscopic techniques.

The PI Assoc. Prof. Venkata Kamalakar Mutta (link to his interview in European Physical Society) from the X-ray Photon Science division of the Department of Physics and Astronomy, Uppsala University. He is an expert in quantum material device physics of nanoelectronics and spintronic devices, innovative device fabrication, synthesis of 2D materials, and instrumentation and precision charge, spin, and orbital measurements. He was awarded an ERC-consolidator grant in 2020 and leads the Quantum material device group (host group) with 4 Ph.D. students and 4 Postdocs.

Co-PI Dr. Zhaojun Li is known for her internationally recognized work on functionalized 2D material for optoelectronics. Co-PI Assoc. Prof. Andreas Lindblad is an expert on charge dynamics study with electronic structures probed by X-rays. He specializes in nanometric profiling of the elemental and chemical specificity of the novel hetero-layers we will produce in this project. Co-PI Dr. Anirudha Ghosh is an expert in the field of soft x-ray spectroscopy. He is currently stationed at Veritas beamline in MAX IV Laboratory, and specializes in understanding the charge and spin dynamics of correlated electron systems, 2D van der Waal materials, superconductors, etc. The secondments at MAX IV Laboratory will be under his supervision.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University.

Duties
Two-dimensional (2D) material van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures exhibit extraordinary quantum traits for next-generation nanoelectronics, spintronics, and optoelectronic applications. The project aims to investigate the quantum (electronic, phononic, and magnonic) properties and phenomena in novel directly-chemical vapor deposited 2D material heterostructures and their functionalized defect-passivated systems, and develop innovative devices. Here we will explore a new direct growth of 2D material heterostructures, for example, semiconducting MoS2 on graphene. Recently, we have innovated the growth of composite 2D heterostructures by nucleation-defined chemical vapor deposition. In this project, we specifically aim to probe the electronic structure of these new quantum materials via advanced x-rays spectroscopic tools, such as angle-resolved photoemission (ARPES), resonant inelastic x-ray scattering (RIXS), ambient pressure x-ray photoemission spectroscopy (APXPS), nano and micro-(ARPES), to uncover the band structure and surface charge transfer in directly CVD-grown 2D heterostructures of MoS2 over graphene and 2D magnets (Chromium Telluride) over graphene. This will help in understanding spin-orbit coupling and its influence on the electronic and magnonic (involving magnetic 2D materials) band structure in 2D heterostructures. In addition, the project will involve the investigation of defect passivation by chemical treatments on CVD-grown 2D materials. These objectives will impact the understanding of the properties of the directly grown 2D heterostructures and engineering their properties for efficient next-generation optoelectronic and spintronics devices, which will be innovated with these quantum materials. This project is expected to significantly contribute to pushing the boundaries of 2D quantum materials.

The focus of the project will be to synthesize innovative two-dimensional (2D) material heterostructures and characterize them using advanced transport, magneto-optic, and x-ray spectroscopic techniques. The student will be part of exciting developments at Uppsala University in 2D material research and get an exciting opportunity to learn, employ, and innovate the growth of 2D materials by chemical vapor deposition techniques, and various in-house measurement and characterization techniques at the Quantum Material Device laboratory. In addition to growth, this project would involve significant utilization of X-ray spectroscopic techniques to uncover the band structure of the novel 2D heterostructures, 2D passivated materials, finding intricate details using advanced spectroscopic techniques in achieving the project objectives.

The training implies a secondment of 3-12 months at MAX IV laboratory in Lund, Sweden. Additional secondments and/or short stays may be arranged in agreement with the supervisor of the research project. Moreover, you will attend international conferences, participate in periodical project meetings and training schools as well as in specialised courses at different universities to complement your knowledge.  A certain amount of travelling is foreseen in relation to these activities.

Requirements
To meet the entry requirements for doctoral studies, you must

• To comply with the mobility rule of the MSCA COFUND programme, you are eligible if you have not resided in Sweden for more than 12 months during the period 2020-10-30 to 2023-10-31 for work or studies as main occupation.
• By the employment date (before 2024-03-01) you must have completed courses of at least 240 credits, of which at least 60 credits are from second-cycle courses, have been awarded a Master´s degree in Physics or have acquired largely equivalent knowledge in some other way, in Sweden or abroad.
• Within the required education, you need specialization in one of the subjects such as solid-state physics, condensed matter physics, materials science, or other appropriate discipline.

Additional qualifications

• Experience and exposure to X-ray spectroscopic technique are beneficial.
• Experience in graphene and 2D materials, nanodevices, flexible electronics, and cleanroom experience will be considered a merit.

Rules governing PhD students are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University’s rules and guidelines.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7. The position is a full-time, fixed term employment for four years, forseen to start on 1 March 2023. Admission to the doctoral studies takes place at Uppsala University.

The holders of these positions have a primary obligation to successfully fulfil their postgraduate (third cycle) education ending with a doctoral degree (PhD). A position as doctoral student can contain some limited teaching or other departmental work at the Department of Physics and Astronomy. The maximum amount of such work is 20%.

How to apply
Applications are to be submitted via the VARBI and must include the following documents:

• CV in Europass format
• A two-page cover letter, justifying your interest in the position and how it matches your qualifications as well as the prioritization in case of applying to several PRISMAS positions.
• at least one reference letter
• an evidence of English 3 proficiency (minimum B2 level)
• Copy of academic records, including marks for all coursework with a transcript of diploma in English,
• and any other document to which you would like to draw attention (details of referees, letters of recommendation, etc.)

All documents should be uploaded (pdf) in the job application portal. Exam certificates and other documents on paper should be scanned or photographed before being uploaded.

In regard to incomplete applications (especially if lacking the abovementioned documents), the PRISMAS Management reserves the right to exclude them in the selection process, without any additional notification to the applicant. 

The application will be evaluated based on scientific excellence, the adequacy of your career plan and your thesis project as well as your research experience.

Details on the novel, unique and common selection process for all the PRISMAS positions can be found here: How to apply – MAX IV (lu.se)

Contact
For further information about the position, please contact: Venkata Kamalakar Mutta, venkata.mutta@physics.uu.se

If you have questions on the selection process, please contact: prismas@maxiv.lu.se

For questions on the employment conditions and the university, please contact: 113pers@physics.uu.se

Please submit your application by 31 October 2023, UFV-PA 2023/3221

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? Find out more about what it´s like to work and live in Sweden.

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international position. The ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a difference in society. Our most important asset is all of our 7,500 employees and 54,000 students who, with curiosity and commitment, make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting workplaces.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University
https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/

Please do not send offers of recruitment or advertising services.

Submit your application through Uppsala University’s recruitment system.

Deadline: 2023-10-31 at 23:59
Unit: Department of Physics and Astronomy

Read the job description at the university homepage or apply.

Post expires on Tuesday October 31st, 2023

Published: 2023-09-13

The Department of Chemistry – Ångström conducts research and education in the chemistry field. The department has more than 270 employees and has a turnover of 290 million SEK. At the department’s six programs, we conduct very successful research of a high international standard. We have a large number of externally funded research projects, often with international cooperation and we see continued good growth in our subject area. The department has education assignments in engineering programs and master’s programs. More information is available on our website. (https://kemi.uu.se/angstrom/?languageId=1).

Project description
The primary duty focus of this PhD project will be on designing superior cathode-electrolyte interphases to enhance the durability and safety of high energy-density lithium-ion batteries. This involves understanding the effects of cathode surfaces and liquid electrolyte formulations on the formation and evolution of cathode-electrolyte interphase (CEI) and the related ageing mechanisms and thermal stability. The interfacail behaviours in lithium-ion battereis are complicated and involve several chemical and electrochemical reactions dertermining the electrochemical performance and safety issues of battereis. The purpose therefore is to realize durable and safe high energy-density batteries by controlling the cathode and electrolyte in order to determine the key parameters for the formation of robust CEIs.

The project will require use of advanced electrochemical methods and analytical tools such as X-ray photoelectron / absorption spectroscopies, electron microscopy and mass spectroscopy as well as thermal analysis techniques. Different aspects of cathode and electrolyte will be investigated including physico-chemical properites of Ni-rich cathode material (e.g. surface composition and morphology) and electroltye components (e.g.additives), the influence of temperature and operating voltages. The ultimately, this project aims to fill knowledge gaps in the battery field and take the next steps in the design and regulation of electrode-electrolyte interfaces for durable and safe lithium-ion batteries.

Duties
The doctoral student will participate in collaborations, planning and conducting experiments, thereby gaining expertise in battery science, electrochemistry, electrolyte formulation, and various analytical techniques.

The main duties involved in the doctoral studies are in conducting research. Teaching may also be included, but up to no more than 20% of working hours. The student will also take third-cycle courses related to the research topics. The successful candidate is expected to perform high quality research as part of a team, with the aim of disseminating resulting works through high impact peer-reviewed journals, and at national and international conferences.

Requirements
The candidate must have:

• been awarded a second-cycle qualification in chemistry, physics or materials science, or
• satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• acquired essentially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.
• knowledges of material science and electrochemical energy storage systems
• skills in high-quality academic writing (e.g. research articles, thesis and project reports), as well as very good oral proficiency in English.
• ability to articulate clearly, document experimental tasks, and collaborate in a research environment

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

Additional qualifications

• Previous experience in the research field of electrochemical energy storage, particularly batteries
• Previous research experience on materials surface modification and interfacial characterization

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date 1 November 2023 or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala.

Rules governing PhD students are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University’s rules and guidelines.

For further information about the position, please contact: Haidong Liu (Haidong.liu@kemi.uu.se), Maria Hahlin (maria.hahlin@kemi.uu.se)

Please submit your application by 6th of October 2023, UFV-PA 2023/3362. 

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? Find out more about what it´s like to work and live in Sweden. 

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international position. The ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a difference in society. Our most important asset is all of our 7,500 employees and 54,000 students who, with curiosity and commitment, make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting workplaces.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University
https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/

Please do not send offers of recruitment or advertising services.

Submit your application through Uppsala University’s recruitment system.

Deadline: 2023-10-06 at 23:59
Unit: Department of Chemistry – Ångström Laboratory

Read the job description at the university homepage or apply.

Post expires on Friday October 6th, 2023