Description
Department of Physics at Umeå University (https://www.umu.se/en/department-of-physics/) conducts strong research in the areas of organic electronics, condensed matter physics, nanotechnology, photonics, space physics, and theoretical physics
The Department of Physics is now looking for a PhD student in Experimental Physics for a project focusing on materials science and nanoscience with applications in the field of energy. Last day to apply is February 18, 2021. Starting date, March 1, 2021, or by appointment.
Work task and project description
Hydrogen is expected to be a key component in a future fossil-free society in sectors of energy, transportation and industrial production of chemicals and materials. The research centre PUSH (Production, Use and Storage of Hydrogen) addresses scientific and technical hurdles impeding the widespread use of hydrogen, by combining activities on production, storage, distribution and use of hydrogen, in a single coordinated research effort. Researchers at KTH, Lund University, Umeå University, Chalmers University of Technology and at the institute RISE will lead this challenging work.
The candidate will work in the group "Nano for Energy" at the Department of Physics, Umeå University (www.umunano.org). The tasks consist of synthesising, studying, and characterizing electrocatalytic materials, as well as investigating processes for water splitting into H2 and O2 by electrolysis. Some of these materials will also be studied for the reverse process in fuel cells. The studies will cover all steps in the process, from material synthesis and characterization, to determination of catalytic activity and properties. Examples of relevant catalyst materials that will be included are metal oxides, especially transition metals, various alloys with noble metals and (doped) nanostructures of carbon. Important assignments are also different deposition techniques of catalytic materials on different substrates and working with thin film techniques, such as "physical vapour deposition" (PVD), "spin-coating" and spraying methods. You will work with the characterization of the materials with techniques such as, transmission and scanning electron microscopy (TEM, SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy. The project is funded by the Foundation for Strategic Research (SSF) and by the Swedish Energy Agency.
Qualifications
To be admitted to postgraduate education, the applicant must have basic eligibility through a degree at the advanced level, or completed courses of at least 240 hp, of which at least 60 hp higher education credits at the advanced level, or equivalent foreign education, or equivalent qualifications. In order to meet the requirement for special eligibility to be admitted to postgraduate studies in experimental physics, the applicant must have passed courses in the subject area of physics of at least 120 hp. The applicant must have very good skills in both spoken and written English. Interest in experimental work is a requirement.
The applicant should be highly motivated, goal-oriented, and have the ability to work with experimental tasks both independently and in collaboration with a research group. Competence and experience in experimental research, including materials science, thin film production, as well as experience in one or more of the techniques and characterization techniques listed above is a merit. As a doctoral student, you will be active in research, read doctoral courses, and possibly participate in teaching courses at the undergraduate level. The goal of doctoral studies is to achieve a doctoral degree. The financing period is limited to equivalent of four years full-time.. Up to 20% of the employment can consist of teaching such as lab supervisors. In such cases, the corresponding time is added to the total available time (up to a maximum of five years).
Application
The application must contain:
- A cover letter with a short description of your qualifications, research interests and motivation why you are applying.
- CV
- Certified copies of diplomas and certificates.
- A list of university courses with grades.
- Copies of thesis and any publications.
- Contact information for three reference persons.
Information
For further information, contact Professor Applications are submitted via the e-recruitment system Varbi.
Welcome with your application!