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Your work assignments

Research on the first-principles modelling of point defects in semiconductor materials, with an emphasis on realistic and complex environments. The studied systems are alloyed, disordered, and finite-temperature materials. The quantum-mechanical methods combined with machine-learning approaches should be used. As a PhD student, you devote most of your time to doctoral studies and the research projects of which you are part. Your work may also include teaching or other departmental duties, up to a maximum of 20% of full-time.

Your qualifications

You have graduated at Master’s level in Applied Physics, Theoretical Physics or related subjects, or completed courses with a minimum of 240 credits, at least 60 of which must be in advanced courses in Physics. Alternatively, you have gained essentially corresponding knowledge in another way.

Excellent knowledge of quantum mechanics, statistical physics, and computational physics is expected. Familiarity with thermodynamics, programming, and scientific computing is highly valued. Prior experience with first-principles electronic-structure methods, defect physics in semiconductors, and/or machine learning applied to physical systems is considered a strong merit. Qualified to PhD studentships are only those who are or have been admitted to graduate studies.

Good programming skills (e.g. Python, Fortran, or C/C++) and experience with high-performance computing are desirable. Excellent written and spoken English is required, as it is the working language of the research group.

The successful candidate is expected to be independent, curious, and well-organized, with a strong interest in fundamental physical understanding as well as in computational methodology. Good communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively within an international research environment are essential.

Your workplace

Your field of study is Theoretical Physics, to be conducted at the Theoretical Physics division at the Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM), Linköping University. The Theoretical Physics division carries out research, undergraduate and postgraduate education within theoretical physics, with activities spanning electronic-structure theory, materials modelling, and computational condensed-matter physics. The position is hosted within the unit Ab initio theory and energy materials (TEAM) unit, which develops and applies first-principles and machine-learning methods to understand the properties of functional materials, including semiconductors and energy materials.

The employment

When taking up the post, you will be admitted to the program for doctoral studies. More information about the doctoral studies at each faculty is available at Doctoral studies at Linköping University

The employment has a duration of four years’ full-time equivalent. You will initially be employed for a period of one year. The employment will subsequently be renewed for periods of maximum duration two years, depending on your progress through the study plan. The employment may be extended up to a maximum of five years, based on the amount of teaching and departmental duties you have carried out. Further extensions can be granted in special circumstances.

Starting date by agreement.

Salary and employment benefits

The salary of PhD students is determined according to a locally negotiated salary progression.

More information about employment benefits at Linköping University is available here.

Union representatives

Information about union representatives, see Help for applicants.

Application procedure

Apply for the position by clicking the “Apply” button below. Your application must reach Linköping University no later than 26 June 2026.

Applications and documents received after the date above will not be considered.