Postdoctoral Fellow in phase-sensitive probe of unconventional superconductivity in iron-pnictides

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 are looking for a postdoctoral stipend to start immediately for an individual work with Prof. Vladimir Krasnov from the Experimental Condensed Matter Physics group at the Department of Physics SU and his collaborators from the Department of Physics/Condensed Matter Theory at the Royal Institute of Technology (KMT/KTH).

The current project focuses on experimental and theoretical studies of unconventional iron-based high-temperature superconductors (iron pnictids). Conventional superconductivity at low temperatures occurs by spin-singlet pairing of electrons, mediated by electron-phonon interactions. Ferromagnetic materials with spin-polarized electrons do not exhibit superconductivity due to the inherent contradiction between these two phenomena. The discovery of high-temperature superconductivity in iron pnictides was therefore unexpected, and the underlying mechanism is still unclear. The aim of the project is to gain a deeper understanding of the mechanism of electron pairing in iron pnictids. The research strategy includes analysis of the phase-sensitive Josephson effect in iron pnictids superconductors.

Main responsibilities

The candidate will perform experimental studies of Josephson transitions based on single crystals of iron pnictides in the ECMP cryolaboratory, micro- and nanofabrication of transitions of such transitions in the cleanroom at AlbaNova NanoFabLab as well as theoretical interpretation of the obtained results. The candidate will be closely rooted in the ongoing collaboration with KMT/KTH.

Qualification requirements

In order to qualify for a Postdoctoral stipend, 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 low-temperature experimental physics and nanofabrication. The 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 candidates with a knowledge in condensed matter physics (both experimental and theoretical) and nanotechnology.

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 favorable 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. Vladimir Krasnov, Vladimir.krasnov@fysik.su.se.

Application

You apply directly to the project manager Vladimir Krasnov, Vladimir.krasnov@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!