Postdoctoral Fellow developing computational analysis of X-ray spectra

The Department of Physics is one of the biggest departments within the Faculty of Science and supports a broad range of fundamental experimental and theoretical physics research. It has about 250 employees, of which 95 are Ph.D. students. Many have been internationally recruited. The Department is part of the AlbaNova University Center which houses the Department of Astronomy, the Physics Departments at the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH), and the Nordic Institute for Theoretical Physics (Nordita).

The Department of Physics and Stockholm University is affiliated with Stockholm Dual Career Network (SDCN) that supports ex-pat partners with professional events, career-related advice, and building a social network in their new hometown. https://www.sdcn.se/

Project description

We have an immediate postdoctoral fellowship opening for an outstanding individual to work with Prof. Martin Beye and his international collaboration partners to further develop and optimize the computational analysis of spectra obtained by the novel PAX method (“photoelectron spectrometry for the analysis of X-rays”). This method makes use of the recent advancements in electron spectrometer, namely time-of-flight momentum microscopes, to increase the throughput at improved resolution of RIXS experiments (resonant inelastic X-ray scattering) with more compact and cheaper instruments. A dedicated instrument (value about 10MSEK) has recently been installed at the synchrotron PETRA at DESY in Hamburg and several datasets have been recorded. Further measurements are planned and beamtime is already granted.

The recorded data intrinsically is a convolution of a kernel spectrum that can be measured separately and the RIXS spectrum. To extract the latter, deconvolution algorithms have to be applied. At the current stage, a rigorous approach needs to be developed and turned into a generally applicable and usable toolbox.

RIXS spectra encode a lot of the functionality of materials and might give key insights also into the mechanisms behind high-temperature superconductivity as well as for magnetic data storage applications. An understanding developed from RIXS often results in the improved ability to tailor-make quantum materials.

Main responsibilities

The successful candidate will streamline the existing deconvolution codes and developed further into a generally applicable easily usable toolbox. Further, the candidate will plan, prepare and participate in measurement campaigns in Hamburg (typically of one week duration). Subsequently, the data will be analyzed, interpreted and turned into scientific publications. The candidate will be closely embedded in the international collaboration.

Qualification requirements

In order to qualify for a Postdoctoral position, applicants are required to hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent relevant degree from another country. The degree must have been completed no later than when the employment decision is made.

Assessment criteria

It is considered an advantage if the doctoral degree or an equivalent degree was completed no more than three years prior to the application deadline. Under special circumstances, an older degree may also be an advantage. Special circumstances refer to sick leave, parental leave, elected positions in trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical attachment or service/assignments relevant to the subject area.

In the appointment process, special attention will be given to research skills. It is an asset, if the candidate has experience in the computational analysis of X-ray spectra, synchrotron radiation, photoemission spectroscopy, resonant inelastic X-ray scattering, development of deconvolution algorithms or software packages for scientific applications. The successful applicant will be selected based on documented experimental knowledge relevant to the study area, scientific instrumentations and methods, analytical skills, personal motivation, and teamwork skills. Well-developed English language skills are required. We seek motivated candidates with a talent for instrument development, programming, and science.

Terms and conditions for scholarships

The position involves full-time scholarship for two years with the possibility of extension
under special circumstances. Start date as per agreement.

We offer

With us, you will experience the dynamic interaction between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international environment and get favourable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good transport links to the city.

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 Prof. Martin Beye, martin.beye@fysik.su.se.

Application

You apply directly to the project manager Martin Beye, martin.beye@fysik.su.se

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).
  
  

Welcome to apply!