PhD Position Available: Neutron and Solid-state NMR Studies of Quantum Materials

A PhD position within characterization of quantum materials focused on geometrical frustration is available at the Department of Physics, Chemistry, and Pharmacy in the group of Professor Ulla Gro Nielsen. The PhD project is part of the European Spallation Source (ESS) Lighthouse on Quantum Materials and Magnetism (Q-MAT), which includes participants from all Danish universities (see Q-MAT homepage for more information) several industrial partners, and scientists at the ESS. Q-MAT is funded by the Danish National Committee for Research Infrastructure (NUFI)

Starting date: 1 March 2022 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Application deadline: 10 January 2022.

Project background
Many quantum-based technologies rely on our ability to host the designed magnetic lattices in a crystal structure. The project focusses on establishing the link between magnetic properties and chemical structure using neutron-based techniques in inorganic minerals and synthetic analogues. The project combines neutron spectroscopy and diffraction with materials synthesis, structural characterization (XRD, NMR, electron microscopy etc.) and magnetic property measurements. In addition, the PhD student will contribute to teaching, including tutorial sessions and supervision of undergraduate students.

This PhD project is one of 12 PhD projects, which are a central part of the ESS light house Q-MAT. The PhD project is hosted at the Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy at the University of Southern Denmark with Professor Ulla Gro Nielsen as supervisor and will be in close collaboration with Dr Pascale Deen, ESS (co-advisor), Professor Kim Lefmann (co-advisor) and the Q-MAT PhD student at The Niels Bohr Institute, Copenhagen University. Ongoing research activities in the Nielsen group focus on the magnetic properties of inorganic materials, especially low dimensional materials and the development of sustainable materials for resource recovery with emphasize of phosphate.

Qualifications
We are looking for a candidate with a strong interest in working on the boundary between chemistry and physics focused on characterization of inorganic quantum materials by neutron techniques and solid state NMR spectroscopy combined with materials synthesis. The candidate will hold an MSc in chemistry, physics, or closely related area, including documented experience with neutron and/or X-ray based techniques and courses in quantum chemistry/mechanics. Previous experiences with one or more of the following is considered an advantage: neutron methods, synchrotron-based techniques, advanced data analyses, solid state and/or hydrothermal synthesis.

The candidate must be independent and fluent in English, both oral and written. Moreover, frequent travels to international neutron facilities and Copenhagen University is an integral part of the project as well as a secondment at the ESS.

For further information about the position please contact Professor Ulla Gro Nielsen ([email protected]).

The Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy is one of four departments at the Faculty of Science, SDU and is located in Odense. The Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy is a department focused on basic research. We are happy to move beyond traditional disciplines and work to develop new technologies and sciences across physics, chemistry, pharmacy, mathematics, computer science and biology. The department’s research thus contributes to new knowledge and solutions with applications in the areas of climate, environment, energy, and health.

Application, salary etc.
Appointment as a PhD Research Fellow is for three years. Employment stops automatically at the end of the period. The holder of the scholarship is not allowed to have other paid employment during the three-year period.

The successful applicant will be employed in accordance with the agreement on salaried PhD scholars between the Ministry of Finance and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations). Please check links for more information on salary and taxation.

The successful candidate will be enrolled at this university in accordance with faculty regulations and the Danish Ministerial Order on the PhD Programme at the Universities (PhD order).

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Application must be made in the form of a Declaration of Interest including the following:
• A research proposal/description of your approach to the above project (max one page excluding references)
• A letter stating your specific interest, motivation and qualifications for the project in question (max. two pages) (please attach this under box "Application form")
• Detailed CV, including personal contact information
• Copies of diplomas, Bachelor as well as Master’s degree, including transcript of notes/grades
• At least two signed reference letters. Should your referees wish to send their letters directly to us, please have them use e-mail: [email protected] mentioning your name and the title of the position in the subject line. And please note that these also need to reach us before deadline.

Shortlisting may be used in the assessment process.

Further information about the PhD-study can be found at the homepage of the University.

Applications must be submitted electronically using the link "Apply online". Attached files must be in Adobe PDF or Word format. Each box can only contain a single file of max. 10 Mb. We strongly recommend that you read How to apply before you apply.

Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline will neither be considered nor evaluated. This also applies to reference letters.

Further information for international applicants about entering and working in Denmark.