Nordita, the Nordic Institute for Theoretical Physics, was founded in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1957. It moved to the AlbaNova University Center in Stockholm, Sweden, in 2007, where it is jointly hosted by KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Stockholm University. Research at Nordita covers a broad range of theoretical physics including astrophysics, biophysics, condensed matter physics, gravitation, cosmology and astroparticle physics, high-energy physics, and statistical physics/complex systems. The research activity of the local academic staff is supplemented by Nordita Scientific Programs, which bring together groups of leading experts to work on specific topics for extended periods. There is also ample opportunity for collaboration with faculty and research staff at local universities. Further information about Nordita can be found at www.nordita.org
The Oskar Klein Centre at Stockholm University houses research groups from Stockholm University and KTH Royal Institute of Technology. The Centre hosts a vibrant research programme on dark matter, dark energy, transient and multimessenger astrophysics, structure formation, and related particle physics questions, including LHC-based studies. Theoretical activities at the Centre include particle and astroparticle phenomenology, neutrino theory, gravitation and string theory. Further information about the Oskar Klein Center can be found at okc.albanova.se.
Project description
We expect to have an opening for one postdoctoral position in theoretical condensed matter physics. The focus of this position will be on the search for novel quantum materials and mechanisms for quantum sensing of light dark matter. The successful applicant should have expertise in quantum materials and quantum sensing, with the goal of developing candidate mechanisms and detection techniques for sub-GeV dark matter detection or axion detection. The position calls for an effort in theory, modelling of materials and their interactions with dark matter particles, and will involve highly collaborative interactions with the sensor work at the experimental high energy group. The position is the part of the recently awarded Swedish Research Council (VR) Research Environment Grant on Axion Dark Matter Detection (AxionDM).
Main responsibilities
The position includes conducting a strong research program and interacting with colleagues and visitors at Nordita, Stockholm University, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Uppsala University, and elsewhere in the Nordic countries. The successful candidate is expected to spend significant time at Nordita, KTH, and SU, building connections between condensed matter, astrophysics and high-energy groups. The successful candidate will also be a member of the Oskar Klein Centre (okc.albanova.se) in Stockholm, a rich scientific environment that comprises more than a hundred researchers working in both theory and experiment in the fields of astronomy, astrophysics and particle physics at both Stockholm University and KTH Royal Institute for Technology, within which the AxionDM VR Research Environment is hosted.
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.
Assessment criteria
The degree should have been completed by the starting date of the position and no more than three years before the deadline for applications. An older degree may be acceptable under special circumstances, which may involve 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 and ability to conduct research in the interactive interdisciplinary environment.
Terms of employment
The position involves full-time employment for two years. Start date November 16, 2020 or as per agreement.
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 Nordita Professor Alexander Balatsky, avb@nordita.org.
Union representatives
Ingrid Lander (Saco-S), telephone: +46 708 16 26 64, saco@saco.su.se, Alejandra Pizarro Carrasco (Fackförbundet ST/Lärarförbundet), telephone: +46 8 16 34 89, alejandra@st.su.se, and seko@seko.su.se (SEKO).
Application
Apply for the position at Stockholm University’s recruitment system. 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
- Publications in support of your application (no more than 3 files).
The instructions for applicants are available at: Instructions – Applicants.
You are welcome to apply!
(Click on ‘Application Link above’)
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