2017-04-07

[OPEN POSITION]: PhD-position in solid state physics – X-ray and Neutron scattering

PhD-position in solid state physics – X-ray and Neutron scattering

Published: 2017-04-04
Uppsala University is an international research university focused on the development of science and education. Our most important assets are all the individuals who with their curiosity and their dedication make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting work places. Uppsala University has 40,000 students, 7,000 employees and a turnover of SEK 6,5 billion.
A PhD-position in solid state physics – X-ray and Neutron scattering in the subject Engineering Science with specialization in the solid state physics, at the Ångström Laboratory, Department of Engineering Sciences, Division of Solid state physics (http://teknik.uu.se/solid-state-physics+/?languageId=3). Starting date as soon as possible.
This project will be conducted as part of a collaborative effort between Structural Chemistry and Solid State Physics, both situated at the Ångström Laboratory. The Ångström Advanced Battery Centre at Structural chemistry is the largest battery research group in the Nordic countries. Our research focuses on all aspects of the chemistry of rechargeable batteries; recently, we are looking at advanced nanomaterials with the aim of making energy storage more sustainable and cost-effective. The Magnetism group at the division of Solid State Physics is working with experimental research on novel magnetic materials, and has made key contributions to this research field. Apart from pursuing basic research on magnetic materials, the group is also involved in interdisciplinary research; developing magnetic nanoparticle based bioassays, and the study of the magnetization dynamics of self-assembled nanoparticle assemblies.
The PhD project will focus on the characterization of nanomaterials using neutron and X-ray scattering. The focal point of the project is the combination of scattering techniques at multiple length scales, in order gain insights in materials and processes by covering both the atomic- and the mesoscale. Several different materials will be explored throughout the project, including self-assembled magnetic nanomaterials and battery components. This work is funded by the Swedish research council, with the aim to develop several sample environments for the neutron diffractometer DREAM at the European spallation source (ESS). The work is performed in close collaboration with Stockholm University and involves travel to major facilities in EU and other parts of the world. We offer a varied and exciting work, with well-established collaboration with the department of Chemistry at the Ångström laboratory as well as with nationally and internationally renowned research groups.
We are seeking candidates with a MSc in engineering or science. A strong motivation and ability to work independently is desirable, and good verbal and written skills in English are required. Experience in materials science work will be considered as a merit.
The PhD position is for four years, extendable to a maximum of five years including departmental duties at a level of at most 20% (typically teaching).
Local guidelines for salary placement are used.
Uppsala University aims for gender balance and diversity in all activities in order to achieve a higher quality at all levels of the organization. We therefore welcome applicants of any gender and with different birth background, functionality and life experience.
Applications should include a brief description of research interests and relevant experience, a CV, copies of diplomas and certificates, 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 please contact Dr Erik Wetterskog, +46-(0)18-471 3115, erik.wetterskog@angstrom.uu.se
You are welcome to submit your application no later than 25 April 2017, UFV-PA 2017/1102.
We decline offers of recruitment and advertising help. We only accept the application the way described in the advertisement.
Placement: Department of Engineering Sciences
Type of employment: Full time , Temporary position longer than 6 months
Pay: Fixed pay
Number of positions: 1
Working hours: 100 %
Town: Uppsala
County: Uppsala län
Country: Sweden
Union representative: Ellena Papaioannou, Seko 018-471 3315
Marie Ols, TCO/ST 018-471 2459
Per Sundman, Saco-rådet 018-471 1485 
Number of reference: UFV-PA 2017/1202
Last application date: 2017-04-25

[OPEN POSITION] Postdoctoral Fellow in Materials Chemistry - Neutron Scattering

Postdoctoral Fellow in Materials Chemistry - Neutron Scattering

Ref. No. SU FV-0992-17

at the Department of Materials and Environmental ChemistryClosing date: 30 April 2017.
The Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry at Stockholm University is one of the largest with about 150 persons working with the synthesis and structural characterisation of materials.
Project description
We are looking for a postdoc who can carry out research with neutron diffraction and SANS of nanomaterials with technical applications as biomaterials, battery components and potentially magnetic materials.
The project is a collaboration between Stockholm University, Uppsala University and the European Spallation Source (ESS) and has as a long-term plan to expand the neutron diffractometer DREAM at the ESS in Lund to study nanomaterials. Within the project, we will design different sample environments to enable the simultaneous acquisition of data in two length scales (atomic and nanoscopic). This will be used to study three different materials classes that have a strong research tradition in Sweden: biomaterials, batteries, and magnetic materials. In this way, the connection between the variations in the crystal structure and nanoparticle morphology can be established. Some examples of the possible studies include the self-assembly of small cellulose fibres, how the structure of batteries changes during usage, or how magnetic nanoparticles assemble under an applied magnetic field. The project is financed by the Swedish Research Council.
Main responsibilities
The postdoctoral fellow will work together with a team that will focus in studying different types of nanomaterials with neutron scattering at the atomic (diffraction) and nanoscopic (small angle neutron scattering, SANS) levels. The work implies comprehensive experiments with neutron scattering in neutron facilities around the world with the focus on the multiple length scale approach. The work also includes the design, development, and testing of different sample environments for the in-situ characterisation of two different types of nanomaterials such as nanocellulose and iron oxide nanoparticles.
Qualification requirements
Postdoctoral positions are appointed primarily for purposes of research. Applicants are expected to hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent degree from another country. The applicant should have a doctoral degree in chemistry or physics with a strong focus on condensed matter or similar qualifications.
Assessment criteriaThe degree should have been completed no more than three years before the deadline for applications. An older degree may be acceptable under special circumstances, such as sick leave, parental leave, clinical attachment, elected positions in trade unions, or similar.
In the appointment process special attention will be given to research skills. Documented experience of neutron scattering is required. Experience in X-ray scattering in general and total scattering in particular is advantageous.
Terms of employment
The position involves full-time employment for a maximum of two years, with the possibility of extension under special circumstances.
Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.
Contact
Further information about the position can be obtained from the PI, Assoc. Prof. German Salazar-Alvarez, telephone: +46 8 16 39 42, german@mmk.su.se, or Head of Department, Prof. Gunnar Svenson, telephone: +46 8 16 12 54, gunnar@mmk.su.se.
Union representatives
Anqi Lindblom-Ahlm (Saco-S) and Lisbeth Häggberg (Fackförbundet ST and Lärarförbundet), telephone: +46 8 16 20 00 (operator), and seko@seko.su.se (SEKO).
Application
Apply for the position at Stockholm University's recruitment system by clicking the "Apply" button. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.
Please include the following information with your application
  • Your contact details and personal data
  • Your highest degree
  • Your language skills
  • Contact details for 2–3 references
and, in addition, please include the following documents
  • Cover letter
  • CV – degrees and other completed courses, work experience and a list of publications
  • Research proposal (no more than 3 pages) describing:
    – why you are interested in the field/project described in the advertisement
    – why and how you wish to complete the project
    – what makes you suitable for the project in question
  • Copy of PhD diploma
  • Letters of recommendation (no more than 3 files)
  • Publications in support of your application (no more than 3 files).
The instructions for applicants are available at: Instructions – Applicants.
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