Dear members of the molecular-dynamics-news mailing list,

Stockholm University announces: A PhD studentship in Experimental Chemical Physics at the Department of Physics, Stockholm University.

Reference number SU 402 33-0162-12. Deadline for applications: 30th September 2012.

Subject description
A detailed understanding of matter and its properties at an atomic and molecular level is essential for the development of future materials and technologies as well as, for example, making rational strategies to counter climate change. Ultrafast spectroscopy techniques with their capability to resolve and manipulate matter dynamics on timescales inherent to atomic and electronic motions represent a crucial part of the cutting edge research in this field, reflected in the present enormous global effort that is spent on the development of x-ray free electron laser facilities (XFEL) that can deliver pulses with femto- or even attosecond duration and thereby provide completely new possibilities to study fundamental dynamical processes in matter.

Experimental based research into ultrafast chemical dynamics is a core activity in the Chemical Physics Division at the department with world-class experimental facilities for gas phase ultrafast multiparticle coincidence electron spectroscopy. Coupled with the group’s active involvement in x-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) facilities around the world, these have provided further impetus for the evolution of the scope of our research.

Project description
The key project goal is an understanding of the underlying quantum dynamics of atomic and molecular processes in the gas-phase, in particular the role of particle correlations and the mechanisms of photo-induced break-up of atmospheric and biologically relevant molecules, and for that purpose develop concepts and methodology for research at the new x-ray free-electron lasers. The present project focus is studies of electron dynamics and coupled electron-nuclear dynamics in small molecules by ultrafast high-energy photon pulses and femtosecond pump-probe methods. For this purpose we have constructed a laboratory light source that delivers femto-/attosecond pulses of extended ultraviolet photons (approx. 10-90 eV) to complement ongoing activities at external free-electron laser facilities.

The Department of Physics is an internationally lively research environment, situated in the AlbaNova University Center and has about 180 employees, 250 undergraduate students and 80 PhD students. For more information about the department see http://www.fysik.su.se.

Requirements
The possibility exists to register as a PhD student in either Physics OR Chemical Physics in the Department of Physics at Stockholm University. Physics students should have studied at least four years at a University and have the equivalent of a BSc in Physics. To register for a PhD in Chemical Physics requires either the equivalent of a BSc in Physics or in Chemistry.
These studies must include advanced courses in physics/chemistry during one year and an advanced degree project (a detailed description of one in progress may suffice). We seek a candidate with analytical capacity and good skills English.

Terms of employment
A PhD education is four years (48 months). The 4-year PhD program includes at least 3 years of research and at most one year of course work. The position may be extended up to 1 year if up to 20% teaching assistance or administration is included in the contract. During the beginning of the PhD education, the student receives a study grant ("utbildningsbidrag") and towards the end of the education, the student acquires a PhD position ("doktorandanställning").

Applications
Applications should include a letter of intent describing your motivation for applying, a CV including information on previous education, a copy of the master thesis (or "examensarbete"), other documents supporting the applicants competence and suitability for the position, and address, phone number and e-mail of two reference persons. The application can be written in English or Swedish. Evaluations will be based on results on University courses, quality of master's thesis (or "examensarbete"), references, interviews and the letter of intent.

For further information, please contact: Richard Thomas, [log in to unmask], or Tony Hansson, [log in to unmask]
Union representatives are Anqi Lindblom-Ahlm (SACO), Lisbeth Häggberg (Fackförbundet ST), telephone +46 (0)8-16 2000 (switchboard), and Gunnar Stenberg (SEKO), telephone +46 (0)70-316 43 41 and the PhD student representative [log in to unmask]

The application should be labelled with the reference number SU 402 33-0162-12, and should be received no later than 30th September 2012. E-mail your application to Gorica Nikolic, [log in to unmask] , with the subject line SU 402 33-0162-12.

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