PhD Fellowship in Chemistry

University of Copenhagen

Project Description

The Department of Chemistry, Section for Inorganic Chemistry, invites applications for a PhD fellowship in Quantum Materials Discovery.

The project focuses on the preparation and characterization of new quantum materials, particularly magnetic materials with low dimensionality. The successful candidate will synthesize complex solid-state compounds such as transition metal halides and chalcogenides, using a combination of crystal growth techniques (e.g., chemical vapor transport, optical floating zone) and soft chemistry methods.

The PhD fellow will also conduct detailed structural and electronic characterizations using scattering and spectroscopic techniques and perform physical property measurements. The overarching goal is to establish structure–property relationships in materials exhibiting novel magnetic and electronic behaviors.

Qualifications

We are seeking candidates with a background in inorganic chemistry or materials science, ideally with experience in:

  • Synthetic solid-state chemistry and crystal growth

  • Structural and materials characterization (X-ray/electron diffraction and microscopy)

  • Physical property measurements (magnetization, electrical transport) – an advantage

Applicants should be self-motivated and eager to develop an interdisciplinary research profile in the field of quantum materials.

Required qualifications:

  • Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Physics, or a related discipline

  • Strong academic record and professional qualifications relevant to the project

  • Excellent written and spoken English skills

  • A curious mindset with a strong interest in materials discovery, synthesis, and characterization

Relevant publications, prior research experience, and other professional activities will be considered as advantages.

The Research Environment

The successful candidate will join the group of Assistant Professor Sara López Paz, part of the Inorganic Section at the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen.

Our research lies at the interface between solid-state chemistry and condensed matter physics, exploring new materials with potential applications in quantum technologies and energy conversion.

The project is funded by the Danish Independent Research Fund (DFF) and benefits from state-of-the-art facilities for crystal growth, materials characterization, and physical properties measurements.

You will also participate in a vibrant international research environment, including collaboration within the Q-Mat Lighthouse initiative (https://www.q-mat.nbi.ku.dk/about-q-mat/) and access to major European large-scale facilities.

Supervisors:

  • Principal Supervisor: Professor Jesper Bendix, Department of Chemistry

  • Co-supervisor: Assistant Professor Sara López Paz (salp@chem.ku.dk, +45 9356 5321)

PhD Programme

The position is a three-year, full-time fellowship under the 5+3 PhD programme, for candidates holding a degree equivalent to a Danish master’s degree (180 ECTS BSc + 120 ECTS MSc).

Responsibilities include:

  • Conducting an independent research project under supervision

  • Completing PhD courses (approx. 30 ECTS)

  • Participating in research environments, including a stay at another institution (preferably abroad)

  • Teaching and dissemination activities

  • Publishing scientific papers in high-impact journals

  • Writing and defending a PhD thesis

Employment terms:
Employment as a PhD fellow is conditional on enrolment in the PhD School at the Faculty of SCIENCE. Salary and terms are in accordance with the agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations (AC), and the position is covered by the Protocol on Job Structure.

Application Procedure

Applications must be submitted in English and include the following documents (as a single PDF):

  1. Motivated letter of application (max. 1 page), outlining your interest in the project

  2. Curriculum Vitae, including education, research experience, language skills, and other relevant skills

  3. Diplomas and transcripts (BSc and MSc), including authorized English translations if applicable

  4. Publication list (if available)

  5. Reference letters (if available)

Assessment Process

After the deadline, selected applicants will be evaluated by an independent academic assessor. Qualified candidates may be invited for interviews in week 51.

Further information about the recruitment process is available at: https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/

For general information about PhD study at SCIENCE, visit: https://www.science.ku.dk/phd/

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Copenhagen is committed to fostering diversity and encourages all qualified candidates to apply, regardless of personal background.

Apply