PhD Student in Condensed Matter Theory

Description:

Do you want to work with high-quality subjects within condensed matter physics and materials science, supported by competent and friendly colleagues in an international environment? Do you want an employer that invests in sustainable employee engagement and offers secure, beneficial working conditions? Welcome to apply for a position as a PhD student at Uppsala University. The Department of Physics and Astronomy is one of Uppsala University's largest units with close to 400 employees, of which approximately 100 are PhD students. The department conducts world-class research and education in both theoretical and experimental physics and has extensive collaboration with the outside world. Research is conducted at nine research divisions and covers everything from the unimaginably small to the large, including, for example, energy supply, climate development, new materials, and the universe. This entire spectrum is also reflected in the department's courses and educational programs. Around 2500 students take courses at basic and advanced levels at the department each year. Learn more at https://uu.se/fysik. The PhD student will perform theoretical investigations and simulations of two-dimensional (2D) magnetic materials and their heterostructures. Currently, the group has a strong focus on studies of electronic structure, magnetism, spin transport, and X-ray spectroscopic studies of complex magnetic materials. New theoretical models will be developed and implemented within the project, which also involves close collaboration with experiments. Job Responsibilities The research will focus on the application of density functional theory (DFT) to study magnetic properties of two-dimensional materials, so-called 2D magnets and heterostructures created by different types of 2D magnets including altermagnets. The PhD student will perform calculations of various types of magnetic exchange interaction parameters to be used in Monte Carlo simulations and atomistic spin dynamics. Effects beyond single-electron physics, where so-called pronounced electronic correlation effects are important, will be studied with dynamical mean-field theory (DMFT). One of the main tasks will be calculations of spectra for X-ray absorption and magnetic circular dichroism for these materials. This is planned to be done using DMFT and similar many-body methods. Further development of existing methods will be performed to enable calculations of resonant, inelastic spectra. The spectroscopic methods will be used to compare with available experimental results, taken at, for example, MAX IV. Finally, high-capacity calculations using an in-house Python-based platform will be conducted to find new 2D magnets and also use data to develop machine learning models to predict exchange interactions and magnetic transition temperatures. Qualification Requirements Eligible for education at the research level is a person who has completed a master's degree in physics or materials science, or completed at least 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 higher education credits at advanced level including an independent work of at least 15 higher education credits, or in some other way acquired essentially equivalent knowledge. The potential applicant is expected to have a strong interest in modern theoretical physics and be highly motivated. Strong knowledge of theoretical physics, quantum mechanics, and solid-state physics is essential. Good communication skills in both spoken and written English are required. Desirable/Merits Excellent exam results are considered meritorious, as is previous experience with simulations of material properties using ab initio or tight-binding methods and experience with code development. Previous experience with machine learning methods is considered meritorious. About the Position The employment is fixed-term, according to the Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 5 § 7. The position is full-time. Start date September 1, 2026 or by agreement. Place of employment: Uppsala Provisions for PhD students are found in the Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 5 §§ 1-7 and in the University's rules and guidelines. Information about the position is provided by: Associate Professor Biplab Sanyal, Department of Physics and Astronomy, e-mail: [email protected], tel +46 (0)18-4713624 or Professor Olle Eriksson, Department of Physics and Astronomy, e-mail: [email protected], tel +46 (0)18-4713625. About the Application In this recruitment, we have replaced the personal letter with questions that you answer in connection with your application. The answers will be used as part of the selection process. In addition to your attached CV, we also want you to submit your master's thesis with your application. Welcome to submit your application no later than June 30, 2026, UFV-PA 2026/1538. 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 7,500 employees and 53,000 students who, with curiosity and commitment, make Uppsala University one of the country's most exciting workplaces. Learn more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/ The position may be security vetted. In security vetting, a requirement for employment is that the applicant is approved. We decline offers for recruitment and advertising assistance. Applications are received through Uppsala University's recruitment system. Trade union representatives: Saco-S - [email protected], Seko - [email protected], ST (OFR/S) - [email protected]

Overview

Type

job

Status

active

Visibility

public

City

Uppsala

Address

Box 256

GPS

59.8520701, 17.7188369copyopen in

Email

[email protected]

Phone

18-4713624

Views

6

Published

11. 5. 2026

Edited

21. 6. 2026

Specifications