PhD Position in Technical Physics with a Focus on Photophysics of 2D Quantum Materials

at the Department of Solid State Physics, Materials Science, Uppsala University

The Department of Solid State Physics is part of the Materials Science Department at the Ångström Laboratory. At the department, we engage in both fundamental and applied research. Our research is related to energy and environmental issues, as well as to biomedical applications within our various research areas. We primarily investigate the physical and chemical properties of nanomaterials and new materials, which can be used for thin films for smart windows, to develop gas sensors, photocatalytic coatings, spintronics, or for biomagnetic applications and new magnetic materials for green energy technology.

Project Description

Studies of two-dimensional (2D) quantum materials, such as transition metal dichalcogenides (TMD), have gained significant attention in recent decades for their use in optoelectronics. Despite this interest, the photophysical properties of these materials and the physics of defects in these materials, introduced via various exfoliation methods, are not well understood. The overarching goal of this project is to deepen the fundamental understanding of the physics related to defects and provide new insights into the hotly debated topic of 2D material defect passivation, by using advanced vibrational spectroscopies, time-resolved optical spectroscopy, and microscopy.

Responsibilities

The main task for a PhD student is to engage in their doctoral education, which includes participation in research projects as well as doctoral courses. The responsibilities may also include involvement in teaching and other departmental work, but no more than 20% of the working time.

You will be responsible for conducting advanced spectroscopic investigations of 2D quantum materials, such as Raman, photoluminescence (PL), transient absorption spectroscopy, and X-ray-based spectroscopies. You will design, perform, and analyze experiments aimed at understanding exciton dynamics and the mechanisms of defect passivation in 2D materials from various exfoliation methods.

You will perform transient absorption microscopy and transient fluorescence microscopy during a three to six-month research visit at the Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST) in Korea. This means that you will need to travel intentionally within the project. Additional travel related to conferences within and outside Sweden may also occur.

Additional responsibilities include writing scientific articles, presenting research results at internal meetings and international conferences, and actively participating in collaborative discussions within the research group.

Qualifications

Master's degree or equivalent in physics, chemistry, or a related field, or other education deemed equivalent to these qualifications.

Documented experience and knowledge in solid state physics. Basic knowledge and skills in 2D material characterization are required.

We require good oral and written skills in English.

About the Position

The position is temporary, according to HF Chapter 5 § 7. The extent is full-time. Start date 2026-09-01 or by agreement. Location: Uppsala

For inquiries about the position, please contact: (Zhaojun Li, [email protected]).

Welcome with your application by February 12, 2026, UFV-PA 2025/3960. Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international position. 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 our 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 here (https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/).

The position 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 accepted in Uppsala University's recruitment system.

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