Postdoctoral position in Electrical Engineering focusing on Nanoelectronics and Cryogenic and Ferroelectric materials

Description of the workplace

The Department of Electrical and Information Technology (EIT) at Lund University, The Faculty of Engineering (LTH), is one of the larger departments with about 120 employees and conducts research and teaching mainly in electrical engineering and computer technology. We are located on LTH's campus in northern Lund.

Within the Division of Electromagnetics and Nanoelectronics we develop and study new generations of electronics based on advanced semiconductor technology. In particular, we develop and characterize new generations of electronic and optoelectronic devices based on III-V technology. Part of the effort is related to exploratory material investigations for cryogenic applications. 

Subject description

Ferroelectric materials like HZO show promising properties at cryogenic temperatures with strong polarization and attractive switching characteristics. The interface properties play a critical role but the reduced thermal activation allows different optimization criteria. We will introduce new ALD materials and evaluate their use at the ferroelectric interfaces. The research will be performed in collaboration with researchers within the competence centre ACT and within the strategic research areas in Advanced materials.

Work duties

The main duties involved in a postdoctoral position is to conduct research. Teaching may also be included, but up to no more than 20% of working hours. The position includes the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning. The purpose of the position is to develop the independence as a researcher and to create the opportunity of further development. 

You will be responsible for the investigations of novel interface structures for cryogenic ferroelectric operation. The studies will also include structural characterization at the synchrotron beam lines. 

Some of the work may be carried out at Brunnshög, close to the large infrastructures MAX IV and ESS. 

Detailed description of the work duties:

• Design of experiment and sample preparation.
• ALD deposition of ferroelectric films.
• Measurements, data analysis and interpretation.
• Structural interface characterization.
• Research within the subject area.
• Teaching in the first, second and third cycles of studies.
• Supervision of degree projects and doctoral students.
• Actively seeking external research funding.
• Collaboration with industry and wider society.
• Administration related to the work duties listed above.

Qualification requirements 

Appointment to a postdoctoral position requires that the applicant has a PhD, or an international degree deemed equivalent to a PhD, within the subject of the position. The certificate proving the qualification requirement is met, must be received before the employment decision is made. Priority will be given to candidates who have graduated no more than three years ago before the last day for application. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.

Additional requirements:

• Documented experience in material deposition techniques.
• Experience in clean-room processing.
• Documented experience in structural film characterization, preferable using synchrotron based techniques.
• Very good oral and written proficiency in English. 
• Good ability to work with others.
• Good ability to work independently.

Assessment criteria 

This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers. Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

For appointments to a postdoctoral position, the following shall form the assessment criteria:

• A good ability to develop and conduct high quality research.
• Teaching skills. 

Other qualifications:

• Experience in ALD technology.

Consideration will also be given to how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

We offer

Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme. Read more on the University website about being a Lund University employee. 

Further information

This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of two years, the start date is as soon as possible by agreement, however no later than April 1, 2027.
The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow”).

How to apply

Applications are to be submitted via the University’s recruitment system. 
The application should include a CV and a personal letter justifying your interest in the position and how it matches your qualifications. The application should also include a degree certificate or equivalent and any other document to which you would like to draw attention (copies of grade transcripts, details of referees, letters of recommendation, etc.)”  

We welcome your application!

About the Faculty of Engineering