Doctoral (PhD) position – in the photophysics in 2D quantum materials

Job Description

Organization: Uppsala University

Department: Department of Materials Science and Engineering

Division: Division of Solid State Physics

Location: Uppsala, Sweden

Position: Doctoral (PhD) Position in Photophysics in 2D Quantum Materials

Project Overview

The PhD project focuses on the photophysical properties and defect physics of two-dimensional (2D) quantum materials, such as transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), which have attracted significant interest for applications in optoelectronics.

Despite extensive research into 2D materials, their photophysical properties and the physics of defects introduced through different exfoliation methods are not yet fully understood. The project aims to develop a deeper fundamental understanding of defect physics and provide new insights into defect passivation in 2D materials.

The research will use advanced vibration spectroscopies, time-resolved optical spectroscopy, and microscopy techniques to investigate the properties and behaviour of 2D quantum materials.

The PhD candidate will work within the Division of Solid State Physics at the Ångström Laboratory, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, and collaborate with other doctoral students and researchers.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct advanced spectroscopic investigations of 2D quantum materials.
• Study materials such as transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs).
• Perform Raman spectroscopy and photoluminescence (PL) measurements.
• Conduct transient absorption spectroscopy and X-ray-based spectroscopy.
• Design and perform experiments to investigate exciton dynamics in 2D materials.
• Study the effects of different exfoliation methods on material properties.
• Investigate mechanisms of defect passivation.
• Analyse experimental data and interpret research results.
• Write scientific manuscripts and contribute to research publications.
• Present research findings at internal meetings and international conferences.
• Participate in collaborative research discussions within the research group.
• Participate in relevant PhD courses and departmental activities.
• Contribute to teaching and other departmental duties, with such activities limited to a maximum of 20%.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Physics, Chemistry, or a related field, or an equivalent qualification.
• Successfully completed relevant courses in Solid State Physics or Physical Chemistry.
• Good written and spoken English skills.
• Ability to independently plan and conduct research.
• Strong analytical and scientific research skills.
• Ability to work effectively toward defined research goals.
• Strong academic writing and communication skills.
• Ability to work efficiently both independently and as part of a research group.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience or knowledge in one or more of the following areas is advantageous:

• 2D material characterisation.
• Transient absorption spectroscopy.
• Raman spectroscopy.
• Photoluminescence spectroscopy.
• X-ray-based spectroscopy.
• Programming using MATLAB, Python, or similar tools for data analysis.
• Spectroscopic data analysis and interpretation.

Employment Details

• Full-time doctoral position at Uppsala University.
• Four-year employment period corresponding to full-time PhD education.
• Employment is a temporary position under the Higher Education Ordinance.
• Scope of employment: 100%.
• Starting date: 1 February 2027 or as agreed upon.
• Placement: Uppsala, Sweden.
• Number of positions: 1.
• The doctoral student will participate in research studies and PhD courses.
• Teaching and other departmental duties may account for no more than 20% of the position.

Salary & Benefits

• Salary is determined according to Uppsala University’s doctoral salary ladder and applicable local collective agreement.
• The posting does not specify a fixed salary amount.
• Employment conditions are governed by the applicable agreements for doctoral students at Uppsala University.
• The university provides an international research environment within the Department of Materials Science and Engineering.
• Opportunities to work with advanced research facilities and interdisciplinary research teams.

Application Documents

• Short cover letter of no more than 2 pages explaining your background, motivation for pursuing a PhD, and suitability for the position.
• CV of no more than 2 pages.
• Certified copy of Master’s degree and course grades.
• Copy or draft of Master’s thesis.
• Copies of publications or other relevant documents the applicant wishes to reference.
• Names and contact details of at least two referees who have agreed to provide references.
• Description of the relationship with each referee.
• Additional recommendation letters, if available.

Applications should be written in English and submitted through Uppsala University’s recruitment system. Applications will be reviewed continuously and selected candidates may be invited for interviews.

English Language Requirement

Candidates must have good oral and written English skills to participate effectively in doctoral education, conduct research, collaborate with researchers, and communicate scientific findings.

Research Areas

• 2D Quantum Materials
• Defect Physics
• Defect Passivation
• Exciton Dynamics
• Materials Science
• Nanomaterials
• Nanoscience
• Optoelectronics
• Photophysics
• Quantum Materials
• Solid State Physics
• Spectroscopy

Contact: Zhaojun Li

Email: [email protected]

Application Deadline: 20 October 2026

Starting Date: 1 February 2027 or as agreed upon

Reference Number: UFV-PA 2026/2594