PhD Position in Computational Materials Theory

PhD Position in Computational Materials Theory (Nickelate Superconductors)
100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Materials Theory Group in the Materials Department is recruiting one fully-funded doctoral student to work under the supervision of Prof. Claude Ederer on the development and application of advanced electronic structure calculations to explore the phase diagram and relevant properties of layered Ruddlesden-Popper-type nickelates.

Project background

Layered nickelates of the Ruddlesden-Popper series have recently emerged as promising candidates for high temperature superconductivity, with a critical temperature around 80 K under a pressure of around 18 GPa. The layered structure of these nickelates bears similarities to the famous cuprate superconductors, but many other aspects, including the nominal d occupation of the Ni cations, also differ significantly from the cuprates.

Job description

This computational project will employ calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) and extensions of DFT, such as DFT+U and DFT in combination with dynamical mean-field theory (DMFT). It is embedded in a consortium of various Swiss and French research groups, and will involve close collaborations with experimentalists employing different synthesis, characterization, and spectroscopic techniques, with a focus on pressure-dependent studies of Ruddlesden-Popper-type nickelates of different chemical compositions.

Profile

Required qualifications:

• Master's degree in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a closely related subject.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both oral and in writing.
• Strong interest in Materials Science and the application and development of advanced computational methods.
• Excellent mathematical/analytic skills.
• Strong self-motivation.
• Strong commitment to collaborate and work in a diverse research team.

Highly desirable qualifications:

• Prior experience with executing computational projects.
• Prior experience with DFT-based electronic structure calculations or other computational quantum-mechanical many-body techniques.
• Programming skills in either Python, Fortran, or a comparable programming language.

Workplace
Workplace
We offer

• Opportunities to collaborate with international research groups, enabling you to build a strong scientific network.
• The possibility to mentor students and interns and contribute to their academic development.
• A constructive, friendly, and supportive group atmosphere that encourages open scientific exchange.
• Access to excellent computational facilities and a modern research environment that supports high-quality-work.

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• CV
• Cover letter, explaining your motivation to apply for this position
• Grade transcripts of your MSc and BSc studies
• Contact information for two academic references

There is no deadline for applications. We are constantly reviewing incoming applications until a suitable candidate has been identified.

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about the Materials Theory Group can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Claude Ederer (no applications).

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