Postdoctoral Researcher in Materials Computational Science

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 in 10 research divisions and covers everything from the incomprehensibly small to the large in areas such as 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 each year at both undergraduate and graduate levels at the department. Read more at https://www.uu.se/institution/fysik-och-astronomi/ (https://www.uu.se/institution/fysik-och-astronomi/).

About the Project

We operate in the field of materials computational science, focusing on magnetic materials for energy applications. Our current project aims to develop sustainable permanent magnets. In this interdisciplinary project, funded by VR, we bring together geologists, physicists, and chemists. Our group is responsible for first-principles simulations and predicts the intrinsic properties of magnetic materials. These materials contain natural rare earth metals from ores found in Swedish bedrock. The postdoctoral researcher will be responsible for performing high-throughput ab initio calculations and spin dynamics simulations. Key parameters include magnetization, magnetic exchange interactions, and magnetic anisotropy. Working in this VR project provides an opportunity to be part of a unique environment that encompasses material modeling and experimental applications. More information can be found at: https://www.uu.se/en/news/2024/2024-11-29-sek-30-million-for-materials-research-for-a-green-transition (https://www.uu.se/en/news/2024/2024-11-29-sek-30-million-for-materials-research-for-a-green-transition)

Job Responsibilities

We now have an open position for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with exceptional qualifications in computational magnetism. The successful candidate will work in the VR project for two years. The research focuses on ab initio modeling of magnetic phases with rare earth metals. The postdoctoral researcher will be responsible for performing first-principles calculations with high throughput and spin dynamics simulations. Intensive collaboration between the postdoctoral researcher and the experimental project partners is expected.

About Us

The Department of Materials Theory offers broad expertise in material modeling, code development, and the fundamental aspects of materials research in an international environment with competent and friendly colleagues. The project is led by Dr. (Docent) Heike Herper and Prof. Olle Eriksson, who have extensive experience in material modeling with a focus on prediction and characterization of magnetic materials. In this project, Dr. Alena Vishina will also be active on the theory side and will closely collaborate with the postdoctoral researcher.

Qualifications

• PhD in physics (condensed matter physics) or a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a PhD in the same field. The degree must be completed by the time the employment decision is made. Primarily, candidates who have completed their degree within the last three years will be considered. The calculation of the three-year period is based on the last application date. If there are special reasons, such a degree may have been obtained earlier. Special reasons include leave due to illness, parental leave, or union duties.
• Strong background in theoretical electronic structure and magnetism
• Experience with ab initio methods (DFT and beyond) and spin dynamics codes
• Good programming skills (e.g., Python, C, Fortran)
• Excellent communication skills in English (written and spoken)
• Ability to independently organize work within the project
• Ability to work in a team

Desirable/meritorious

• Experience with high-performance computing
• Experience with correlated systems

Required Documents

• Curriculum vitae
• Short motivation letter (max. 1 page)
• Publication list
• Copy of PhD diploma
• Contact information for two people who can write reference letters

About the Employment

The position is temporary for 2 years according to the central collective agreement. The scope is full-time. Start date is 2026-02-01 or by agreement. Location: Uppsala.

For inquiries about the position, please contact: Dr. Heike Herper, +46 18 471 5876 or Prof. Olle Eriksson, +46 704250777, [email protected]

Welcome with your application by January 5, 2026, UFV-PA 2025/3656.

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international standing. 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 7,600 employees and 53,000 students who, with curiosity and commitment, make Uppsala University one of the most exciting workplaces in the country.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/ (https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/)

The employment may be subject to security clearance. A prerequisite for employment is that the applicant is approved during the security clearance.

We kindly decline offers of recruitment and advertising assistance.

Applications are received in Uppsala University's recruitment system.

Union representatives: Saco-S - [email protected], Seko - [email protected], ST (OFR/S) - [email protected]