Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Computational physics)

Tampere University and Tampere University of Applied Sciences create a unique environment for multidisciplinary, inspirational and high-impact research and education. Our universities community has its competitive edges in technology, health and society. www.tuni.fi/en 

The Physics Unit at the Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences at Tampere University is inviting applications for 2-4 postdoctoral research fellow positions in computational physics, especially in theoretical and computational quantum mechanics, materials physics and condensed matter physics. The topics may include quantum matter and information, quantum dynamics, complex systems, as well as many-body physics and materials modelling using density functional theory. The research projects of the postdoctoral research fellows are thematically linked to the The Finnish Quantum Flagship and to the Quantum Doctoral Pilot Programme.  

At Tampere University, Computational Physics is one of the three strategic focus areas of Physics Unit at the Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences. It includes mathematical and physical modelling, numerical simulations of materials and nanosystems, low-dimensional systems, quantum matter, statistical physics, and complex systems. The application areas are diverse, ranging from quantum devices to medical technologies. Overall, modeling and simulation tools developed in Computational Physics have increasing role in fundamental sciences, and they are also pivotal in the analysis, interpretation, and exploitation of Big Data in multidisciplinary challenges. 

Job Description 

As described above, the positions focus broadly on theoretical and computational quantum mechanics, materials physics and condensed matter physics. Some specific example projects include the following: 

• Theory of many-body physics in quantum devices 
• Quantum information aspects of many-body systems 
• Density functional theory and multiscale modelling of defects in ferromagnets 
• Branched flow and quantum scarring in two-dimensional systems 
• Modelling surface chemistry and defects in quantum devices 

In your application, please specify if you are applying specifically to work on one or more of these topics. Your tasks will involve carrying out high-quality research on the relevant topic(s) as well as participating in the supervision of doctoral researchers working within the Quantum Doctoral Pilot Programme. In addition, according to the practices of the Physics Unit, postdoctoral research fellows should dedicate approx. 5% of their working time for teaching. 

Requirements 

You should have a doctoral degree in physics or a related field, and a solid background in scientific research on the research topic for which you are applying. You are expected to be able to work independently, supervise the daily work of students, and contribute to the teaching activities of the Physics Unit. You should be fluent in spoken and written English. International experience and networks are also appreciated.  

Tampere University is a unique, multidisciplinary, forward-thinking and evolving community. Our values are openness, critical thinking, diversity, learner-centredness, courage, erudition and responsibility. We hope you can embrace these values and promote them in your role.  

We offer 

The positions will be filled for a fixed-term period of 1-2 years. The start date is somewhat flexible and negotiable, but should preferably be in early 2025. A trial period of six months applies to all our new employees.  

The salary will be based on both the job requirements and the employee's personal performance in accordance with the Salary system of Finnish universities. The position of a Postdoctoral Researcher is placed on the job demands levels 5-6 (teaching and research staff). A typical starting salary of Postdoctoral Researcher is around 3600 - 4200 EUR/month.  

We are inviting you to be a part of a vibrant, active, and truly international research community. The multidisciplinary research environment offers opportunities to develop research expertise via collaboration, e.g., with different fields of engineering and natural sciences. We are offering an advanced research infrastructure in these areas, including the exceptional computational resources hosted by CSC-IT Center of Science in Finland.  

We offer a wide range of staff benefits, such as occupational health care, flexible working hours, excellent sports facilities on campus and several restaurants and cafés on campus with staff discounts. Please read more about working at Tampere University. 

The city of Tampere is one of the major academic hubs in the Nordic countries and offers a dynamic living environment. Finland provides one of the most advanced and comprehensive social security systems in the world with generous parental leaves, very affordable state-subsidized daycare that is available for all children, world-renowned free primary and secondary education as well as public healthcare. 

For more information on Tampere and Finland, please visit: 

• Visit Tampere 
• Visit Finland 
• Info Finland 

How to apply 

Please submit your application through our online recruitment system (link below). The closing date for applications is December 17, 2024 at 23.59 EEST (UTC+2). 

Please write your application and all accompanying documents in English and attach them in PDF format. Applications should include the following documents: 

• A letter of application in which you set out the reasons why you are applying for the position and why you are particularly suited to it. Please also describe your previous research work, as well as future goals. 
• Curriculum Vitae according to TENK guidelines 
• List of publications according to Research Council of Finland guidelines. Please indicate your ten most important publications. 
• The names, positions and contact details of two referees who can support your application (Recommendations letters etc. are not asked at this point) 

Candidates may be invited for a video interview during the first stage of the recruitment process. The most qualified candidates will be invited to an interview, either on-site or remotely. 

For more information, please contact: 

Prof. Lasse Laurson, lasse.laurson (at) tuni.fi 

Application period starts: 2024-11-14 09:30. Application period ends: 2024-12-17 23:59