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Research at the Department of Physics and Astronomy covers a broad spectrum of physics disciplines, distributed across nine divisions. The department is located in the Ångström Laboratory, employs nearly 400 people (including 100 PhD students), and offers a comprehensive physics curriculum for undergraduate and doctoral students. The department participates in leading national and international research projects, collaborates with industry, and engages in outreach activities. Learn more: uu.se/physics (https://uu.se/fysik)

Research in Materials Physics at Uppsala University focuses on understanding how the structure and composition of materials relate to physical properties across multiple length scales – from the atomic level to the macroscopic. Key areas include magnetic materials, hydrogen, energy materials, soft materials, and the interaction between ions and solids. More info: uu.se/materialphysics (https://www.uu.se/institution/fysik-och-astronomi/forskning/materialfysik)

The recruiting research group within the Division of Materials Physics uses beams of fast ions to link atomic structure and composition with physical properties and macroscopic functionality in advanced materials. Applications include fusion energy, smart windows, hydrogen storage, and nanoelectronics. The group also conducts fundamental studies of ion-solid interactions to improve the understanding of underlying physics and develop high-precision measurement methods for determining concentrations and depth profiles of atoms and molecules in biological, environmental, and technical samples. The experimental platform consists of a 5 MV tandem accelerator, a 350 kV high-current ion implanter, and a low-energy ion scattering system.

Uppsala University hereby announces a postdoctoral position at the Department of Physics and Astronomy. The successful candidate is expected to be active in both fundamental and applied aspects of materials physics. The role involves using ions with energies in the keV and MeV ranges as analysis and synthesis tools. A key focus area is the development of MeV-energy ion beam analysis tools for high-resolution analysis of chemical composition, integrated with other complementary measurement techniques. More info on research activities: uu.se/tandemlab (https://www.uu.se/centrum/tandemlab/forskningsverksamhet/materialforskning/light). Engagement in developing advanced evaluation routines for measurement data is expected. Applied research in materials science focusing on systems relevant to optics, electronics, friction materials, and related interdisciplinary questions may be part of the duties. Responsibility in collaborative projects with industry is required. Supervision of undergraduate and doctoral students may be included. The project is primarily experimental in nature.

Job Description

The postdoc will work at the Division of Materials Physics and perform experiments at the Tandem Laboratory. The project combines applied and fundamental research with a focus on ion beam-based studies of complex materials in the keV and MeV energy ranges. The work may also include method development and studies of fundamental ion-material interactions.

More specifically, the duties will include:

• Experiments to map structure and composition at the micro- and nanometer scale and correlate these with material properties.
• Operation and development of advanced equipment for non-destructive material analysis.
• Synthesis and modification of relevant material systems.
• Fundamental studies of ion interactions with solid materials.
• Analysis of complex data and simulations using Monte-Carlo and molecular dynamics methods.

Qualifications

A PhD in Physics, Engineering, or a related field, or a foreign degree assessed as equivalent to a PhD in these subjects. The degree must be completed no later than the time the employment decision is made. Priority is given to candidates who have obtained their degree within the last three years (calculated from the last day of application). In cases of special circumstances (e.g., illness, parental leave, trust positions in unions), a longer period may apply.

Experience with ion beams in the keV and MeV energy ranges for material analysis or modification is required. Well-documented experience in handling instruments for ion beam analysis within materials science, fundamental research, or material modification is essential. Good oral and written proficiency in English is required.

Desirable/Additional Qualifications

Documented knowledge of fundamental aspects of ion-solid interactions is considered an advantage. Experience in developing instrumentation for ion beam-based materials research is desirable.

About the Position

The employment is fixed-term for 2 years with the possibility of extension for one year. The position is full-time. Start date by agreement. Location: Uppsala.

Contact Information

For information about the position, contact Daniel Primetzhofer, [email protected]

The application should include a CV, a short description of research interests and qualifications, copies of relevant transcripts, a summary of the thesis, any publications, and a cover letter. We welcome references and/or recommendation letters.

Application deadline: June 9, 2026. Reference number: UFV-PA 2026/1442.

Note that this is a shortened version of the advertisement. For the full advertisement, please visit Uppsala University's website or click "Apply here".