PhD student in condensed matter theory Full-time

PhD Student In Condensed Matter Theory

Are you interested in working with top notch topics in condensed matter physics and materials science, with the support of competent and friendly colleagues in an international environment? Are you looking for an employer that invests in sustainable employment and offers safe, favorable working conditions? We welcome you to apply for a PhD position at Uppsala University.

The PhD student will perform theoretical investigations and simulations of two-dimensional (2D) magnetic materials and their heterostructures. Currently there is a strong focus on studies of electronic structure, magnetism, spin transport and X-ray spectroscopic studies of complex magnetic materials in the group. New theoretical models are being developed and implemented.

Duties The research will focus on the application of density functional theory (DFT) to study the magnetic properties of two-dimensional materials, so-called 2D magnets and heterostructures created from different types of 2D magnets including altermagnets. The Ph.D. student will perform calculations of different types of magnetic exchange interaction parameters to be used in Monte Carlo simulations and atomistic spin dynamics. Effects that lie outside of one-electron physics, where so-called pronounced electron correlation effects are important, will be studied using dynamical mean field theory (DMFT). One of the main tasks will be calculations of X-ray absorption and magnetic circular dichroism spectra for these materials. This is planned to be done using DMFT and similar many body methods. A further development of existing methods will be carried out towards enabling calculations of resonant, inelastic spectra. The spectroscopic methods will be used to compare with available experimental results, taken at e.g. MAX IV. Finally, high-throughput calculations using a home-built python-based platform will be done to find new 2D magnets and also use the data to develop machine learning models to predict exchange interactions and magnetic transition temperatures.

Requirements To meet the entry requirements for doctoral studies, you must

• hold a Master's (second-cycle) degree in physics or materials science or
• have completed at least 240 credits in higher education, with at least 60 credits at Master's level including an independent project worth at least 15 credits, or
• have acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way.

The prospective applicant is expected to have a strong interest in modern theoretical physics and to be strongly motivated. A good knowledge of theoretical physics, quantum mechanics and solid state physics is essential.

Proficiency in spoken and written English is required.

Additional qualifications Excellent exam marks are considered an asset, as well as previous experience with simulations of materials properties using ab initio or tight-binding methods and experience with code development. Previous experience with machine learning methods will be considered as an advantage.

About the employment The employment is a temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date 1 September, 2026 or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala

For further information about the position, please contact: Assoc. Prof. Biplab Sanyal, Department of Physics & Astronomy, email: Biplab.Sanyal@physics.uu.se, phone: +46 (0)18-4713624 or Prof. Olle Eriksson, Department of Physics & Astronomy, email: Olle.Eriksson@physics.uu.se, phone: +46 (0)18-4713625.

Please submit your application by 30th June, 2026, UFV-PA 2026/1538.