Postdoctoral Researchers in Nanoscience and Quantum Materials

2 POSTDOCTORAL and 3-4 DOCTORAL RESEARCHERS

We are seeking 2 Postdoctoral and 3-4 Doctoral researchers who will focus on research in nanoscience and quantum materials with the use of Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM) and molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). The position will start on 1st February 2023 or as agreed for a fixed term of 3 years for a Postdoctoral Researcher or 4 years for a Doctoral Researcher.

These positions reside in the synthetic quantum materials group at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland. As part of our research team, you will contribute to research in nanostructured quantum materials including topological matter, 2D atomic layers, and other atomic structures that exhibit exotic electronic and magnetic behaviors. Your work in experimental science will employ a cryogenic STM to manipulate atomic/molecular structures and study low-energy excitations in various 2D heterostructures. The involved STM platforms include 1K-STM under an external magnetic field up to 8T and 4K-STM combined with optical spectroscopy which allows you to perform STM-induced luminescence and tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy down angstrom spatial resolution. 

Major Duties/Responsibilities

You will

• Work as part of a team conducting basic research that advances our understanding of quantum materials.
• Conduct experimental research in ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) cryogenic STM for characterization and molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) for the growth of low-dimensional materials and interfaces.
• Manage and operate state-of-the-art scanning probe microscopes.
• Perform data analysis and interpretation.
• Work with others to maintain a high level of scientific productivity.
• Present research and publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely fashion.
• As a Doctoral Student to pursue their doctoral studies at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland

Qualifications

For Postdoctoral researchers 

• A Ph.D. in Condensed Matter Physics, Materials Sciences, or a closely related field.
• Experience in low-temperature scanning tunneling microscopy.
• Tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy.
• A strong record of productive and creative research is demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific conferences.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.

For Doctoral Researchers 

• A Master's degree in physics or a related field and a thesis written on an experimental topic. Priority will be given to applicants with SPM, cryogenic, and/or UHV experience.
• A high proficiency in spoken and written English.
• You are expected to carry out experiments, both independently and in a team.
• You are expected to learn to communicate your results by writing manuscripts and giving presentations at international conferences.
• You will operate UHV-SPM and MBE facilities and perform high-precision spectroscopic measurements.

The duties, qualification requirements and language skills of a Postdoctoral/Doctoral Researcher are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines. The PhD/MSc degree required for the position must have been completed before starting the position. Doctoral Researcher needs to be also enrolled in the doctoral programme which can be applied from the Faculty of Mathematics and Science after selection for the position.

We offer

• The annual salary range for a Postdoctoral Researcher will be approximately 41,800 - 49,000 EUR (gross income, including holiday bonus), depending on the qualifications and experience of the candidate. 
• The annual salary for a Doctoral Researcher will be approximately 28,000 EUR (gross income, including holiday bonus). With progress of the thesis work, the salary will be revised in accordance with the Collective Agreement of Finnish Universities.

What does the University of Jyväskylä offer as an employer?

The University of Jyväskylä is a human-centered environment of 2,500 experts and 14,500 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and well-being for all. JYU's naturally beautiful campus is located in the heart of the city of Jyväskylä. JYU is the third-largest employer in Central Finland.

At the University of Jyväskylä, you are a recognized member of our community with a unique opportunity to influence international research. You get to participate in our international and multidisciplinary community where the welfare of each individual is important. At the University of Jyväskylä, we offer a great and lively campus area with opportunities to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.

Finland has a high standard of living, with free schooling (also in English), affordable childcare, good family benefits, and healthcare. Jyväskylä is located in central Finland in the Finnish Lake District having excellent opportunities for different nature, outdoor, and sports activities. The City of Jyväskylä is a major educational center with a large student population and a vibrant cultural atmosphere. For more information regarding the University of Jyväskylä, the City of Jyväskylä, and living in Finland, see the University's International Staff Guide.

How to apply?

The application documents that should be included in PDF format:

1. Curriculum vitae (CV), composed according to good scientific practice and considering the template for researcher´s curriculum vitae by The Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity and including contact information of two academics who can provide reference letters
2. Cover letter including a statement of research interests.
3. A numbered list of publications (if applicable)
4. Relevant certificates/diplomas (if applicable)

Applicants are kindly asked to submit their applications using the online application form by the 25th of November 2022. A trial period of six months will be used in the beginning of the employment.

For further details, please contact Assistant Professor Kezilebieke Shawulienu, kezilebieke.a.shawulienu@jyu.fi.