Deadline: 2017-11-30
Region: Europe
Job description:
The Department of Physics at Chalmers University of Technology (Sweden) invites applications for a PhD student position in theoretical nuclear physics with a strong emphasis on machine learning methods to begin 1-Feb, 2018 (starting date flexible).
Department of Physics at Chalmers
Stimulated by major needs and challenges in science and a sustainable society, the ambition of the department of Physics is to foster a creative environment for academic research, learning and outreach. We provide a competitive advantage by linking our top-level international and interdisciplinary academic performance in the areas of material science, nanotechnology and energy research with world-leading industrial R&D&I projects. We address a wide array of experimental, computational, methodological and theoretical challenges, from fundamental physics research, through the development of new materials such as graphene to direct industrial projects generating new inventions. We have a strong learning commitment on all levels from undergraduate to PhD studies where physics meet engineering.
The department is the major part of Gothenburg Physics Centre – a collaboration between four departments at Chalmers and Gothenburg University.
The theoretical subatomic physics group performs theoretical research on nuclear, elementary particle, astroparticle, and dark matter physics. Some of the research questions that are currently studied in our group include: To what extent can nuclei be described in effective field theories of quantum chromo dynamics? What is the structure of exotic nuclear systems? How can we estimate the uncertainties in theoretical predictions? Organizationally we are part of the division of Subatomic and Plasma Physics within the Department of Physics. Moreover, we have a strong international position within our research area and benefit from many collaborations world wide. We strive for providing a stimulating and collaborative research environment with high scientific standards.
Information about the project
The position is available within the 5-year European Research Council (ERC Starting Grant) project “PrecisionNuclei”, led by Dr. Andreas Ekström. The PhD project will focus on fundamental science questions in theoretical nuclear physics. More specifically, we will explore the applicability of probabilistic inference to improve the current description of the strong nuclear interaction and develop modern computational methods to quantify the uncertainty in theoretical calculations. The project will involve the development of state-of-the-art research methods that involve quantum mechanics, computational physics, applied mathematics, Bayesian statistics, and machine learning.
Major responsibilities
Your major responsibility as a PhD student is to pursue the goals of your research project. You are also expected to develop own ideas and find your own ways in tackling research challenges. The position may also include some level of teaching duties as well as taking part in the supervision of bachelor and master students. It is expected that your research will be integrated within international research collaborations and that you will take an active role within these collaborations. You will therefore be expected to contribute to the continued development of our computer codes and employ them in your own research and collaborative projects. You will communicate research results at international conferences as well as in scientific journals.
Position summary
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years.
Qualifications
To qualify as a PhD student, you must have a master's level degree corresponding to at least 240 higher education credits in Physics. Theoretical physics, in particular quantum mechanics, and some experience with Bayesian statistics and/or Markov chain Monte Carlo are considered meriting. As Chalmers is a highly international enviroment, proficency in written and spoken English is necessary.
Chalmers continuously strives to be an attractive employer. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.
Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20170459 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as pdf-files, as below:
CV: (Please name the document: CV, Family name, Ref. number)
• CV
• Other, for example previous employments or leadership qualifications and positions of trust.
• Two references that we can contact.
Personal letter: (Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, Ref. number)
• 1-3 pages where you introduce yourself and present your qualifications.
• Previous research fields and main research results.
• Future goals and research focus. Are there any specific projects and research issues you are primarily interested in?
Other documents:
• Copies of bachelor and/or master’s thesis.
• Attested copies and transcripts of completed education, grades and other certificates, eg. TOEFL test results.
Please use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. The files may be compressed (zipped).
Application deadline: 30 November 2017
For questions, please contact:
Dr. Andreas Ekström, Dept. of Physics, Division of subatomic physics and plasma physics, andreas.ekstrom@chalmers.se, +46-31-7726307
*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***
Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our eight Areas of Advance; Building Futures, Energy, Information & Communication Technology, Life Science, Materials Science, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!
More Information:http://www.chalmers.se/en/about-chalmers/vacancies/?rmpage=job&rmjob=5455