Postdoctoral Researcher positions in Condensed Matter Theory

We are seeking 2 postdocs who will focus on the theory of flat-band superconductivity and on dynamical response of quantum materials. The research will be guided by Tero Heikkilä at the Condensed Matter Theory group at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland. The positions will start at the earliest on 1st March 2024 or as agreed, for a fixed term of four years.

Topic 1: Exploring quantum geometric effects in flat-band superconductors

In this project you will have a chance of exploring ways to increase the critical temperature of superconductors. One such avenue is flat-band superconductivity, where the mean-field critical temperature can be parametrically higher than in ordinary superconductors. However, ordinary flat bands have infinite effective mass and thereby the corresponding superconductors would have a vanishing critical current. According to recent research, superconductivity in flat bands is rescued by quantum geometry of the bands, a mechanism that is likely behind the observations of superconductivity in twisted bilayer graphene. However, an explicit demonstration of such effect is missing, and more theoretical and experimental research is needed. In this project you will get a chance of collaborating with the world’s leading experts on flat-band superconductivity in the SuperC project (superc2033.com) and promote the grand quest of increasing the operating temperatures of superconductors. The project is funded by Erkko and Keele foundations.

Topic 2: Describing dynamical response of quantum materials

The aim of this project is to understand how the correlated states of two-dimensional electronic systems show up in the dynamical response of those systems. Main emphasis will be on the superconducting state, but you have a chance also of studying magnetic materials and especially hybrid materials of superconductors and ferromagnets. The results will be essential in characterizing the properties of new two-dimensional materials and in particular their use in high-speed electronics at low temperatures. You will have a chance of collaborating with some of the best experimentalists working on 2D superconducting electronics and on optically assisted scanning tunneling microscopy. The project is funded by Academy of Finland.

Major Duties/Responsibilities

• Work as part of a team conducting basic research that advances our understanding of quantum materials.
• Learn and apply the methods of the theory of superconductivity and disordered systems: Green’s functions, quasiclassical methods, Keldysh technique, diagrammatic methods
• Work with others to maintain a high level of scientific productivity.
• Present research and publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely fashion.

Qualifications.

• A doctoral degree in physics or a related field and a thesis written on a theoretical topic.
• Good basis in condensed matter physics, quantum physics and statistical mechanics, including their formal tools
• A high proficiency in spoken and written English.
• You are expected to learn to communicate your results by writing manuscripts and giving presentations at international conferences.

The duties, qualification requirements and language skills of a Postdoctoral Researcher are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines. The doctoral degree required for the position must have been completed before starting the position. A trial period of six months will be used in the beginning of the employment.

We offer

• The annual salary for a Postdoctoral Researcher will be starting from approximately 44,000 EUR (gross income, including holiday bonus).

What does the University of Jyväskylä offer as an employer?

The University of Jyväskylä is a human-centered environment of 2,500 experts and 14,500 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and well-being for all. JYU's naturally beautiful campus is located in the heart of the city of Jyväskylä. JYU is the third-largest employer in Central Finland.

At the University of Jyväskylä, you are a recognized member of our community with a unique opportunity to influence international research. You get to participate in our international and multidisciplinary community where the welfare of each individual is important. At the University of Jyväskylä, we offer a great and lively campus area with opportunities to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.

Finland has a high standard of living, with free schooling (also in English), affordable childcare, good family benefits, and healthcare. Jyväskylä is located in central Finland in the Finnish Lake District having excellent opportunities for different nature, outdoor, and sports activities. The City of Jyväskylä is a major educational center with a large student population and a vibrant cultural atmosphere. For more information regarding the University of Jyväskylä, the City of Jyväskylä, and living in Finland, see the University's Handbook for international staff and visitors.

How to apply?

The application documents that should be included in PDF format:

1. Curriculum vitae (CV), composed according to good scientific practice and considering the template for researcher´s curriculum vitae by The Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity and including contact information of two academics who can provide reference letters
2. A 1-2-page cover letter including a statement of research interests and the topic (1 or 2 or both) for which you are applying
3. A numbered list of publications
4. Relevant certificates/diplomas (if applicable)
5. Research plan is not mandatory. Please submit your motivation/cover letter here again if our application form requires it.

Eligible candidates will be evaluated based on the submitted documents following the recommendations for the responsible evaluation of a researcher in Finland. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a personal interview. We value equality and diversity in our work community and encourage qualified applicants, regardless of the background, to apply for this position. 

For further details, please contact Professor Tero Heikkilä (tero.t.heikkila@jyu.fi).