PhD position in Quantum Materials under Extreme Conditions

Are you a highly motivated MSc graduate in physics with a strong affinity for quantum and condensed-matter physics experiments? The Optics of Quantum Materials (OQM) group is seeking an excellent and ambitious PhD candidate to perform fundamental research on quantum materials using state-of-the-art optical spectroscopy.

Research context

Quantum materials encompass an enormous library of materials with novel electronic and magnetic properties that are expected to become relevant in a variety of energy saving applications or quantum technologies. Optical spectroscopy provides key insight in the dynamics underlying these properties. The OQM group is developing several new techniques to explore quantum materials under extreme conditions such as extreme high temperatures, large magnetic fields or on nanometer length scales

What are you going to do?

• experiment on strange metals, charge density wave materials and/or novel topological systems using state-of-the-art optical spectroscopy tools;
• develop optical spectroscopy under extreme conditions (extreme high temperature, large magnetic field, driven with current);
• collaborate with other research groups (experimental and theoretical) within QMat, the IoP, as well as in the Netherlands and further afield;
• present your results in national and international workshops/conferences;
• take part in the teaching effort of the group, including supervision of bachelor and master students.

The group has broad experience with optical spectroscopy of cuprate superconductors and charge density wave materials and this will help you to quickly get started with new experiments that probe these materials in unexplored territory. Your project starts with an investigation of cuprate high Tc superconductors at extreme high temperatures to search for a crossover from strange to bad metal behavior. After this initial training period, you will be in the opportunity to develop new instruments in the optics lab or go for advanced experiments at international facilities such as ESRF in Grenoble or the HFML in Nijmegen. If you’re excited to learn how to use advanced optical spectroscopies to study fascinating classes of quantum materials in a world-class scientific and cultural setting, then this could be the job for you.

Your profile

This 4-year PhD project is ideal for a physics or physics-oriented MSc graduate with interest in quantum materials and the ambition to carry out experimental condensed matter physics research at the highest level. We are strongly committed to diversity and especially welcome applications from members of underrepresented groups. You will:

• hold a MSc. degree in Physics;
• have excellent command of the English language.

Other skills/experiences/documents that would benefit your application are:

• previous experience in a condensed matter physics / materials physics or spectroscopy lab;
• working knowledge of a programming language (Wavemetrics Igor PRO, python, matlab, C++ or equivalent);
• a background in theoretical condensed matter physics;
• excellent English oral and written communication skills;
• a reference letter from your MSc. thesis advisor.

Our offer

A temporary contract for 38 hours per week for the duration of 4 years (the initial contract will be for a period of 18 months and after satisfactory evaluation it will be extended for a total duration of 4 years). The preferred starting date is as soon as possible. This should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). We will draft an educational plan that includes attendance of courses and (international) meetings. We also expect you to assist in teaching undergraduates and master students.

The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between € 2,770 to € 3,539 (scale P). This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% year-end allowance. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Universities of the Netherlands is applicable.

Besides the salary and a vibrant and challenging environment at Science Park we offer you multiple fringe benefits:

• 232 holiday hours per year (based on fulltime) and extra holidays between Christmas and 1 January;
• multiple courses to follow from our Teaching and Learning Centre;
• a complete educational program for PhD students;
• multiple courses on topics such as leadership for academic staff;
• multiple courses on topics such as time management, handling stress and an online learning platform with 100+ different courses;
• 7 weeks birth leave (partner leave) with 100% salary;
• partly paid parental leave;
• the possibility to set up a workplace at home;
• a pension at ABP for which UvA pays two third part of the contribution;
• the possibility to follow courses to learn Dutch;
• help with housing for a studio or small apartment when you’re moving from abroad.