A fully funded Ph.D. position and a postdoc position in atomistic simulations are currently available in a newly established theory group “Atomistic Simulations of Materials” (Group Leader Dr. Arkady Krasheninnikov) at the Institute of Ion Beam Physics and Materials Research, the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Germany (https://www.hzdr.de/db/Cms?pNid=138). The primary focus of the project will be using atomistic simulations at the density functional theory, tight-binding and empirical potential levels to study the effects of ion and electron irradiation on low-dimensional materials such as graphene or transition metal dichalcogenides, as well as bulk solids. Development of new simulation approaches based on time-dependent density-functional theory (Ehrenfest dynamics) is planned. The project will involve extensive collaborations with the experimental groups at the Ion Beam Center (HZDR), and also external collaborations with several theory groups in Germany (TU Dresden), Finland (Aalto University) and Denmark (DTU).

Essential Requirements

PhD Candidate

The successful applicant should have a M.Sc. degree in solid-state physics or materials science. Excellent written and oral communication skills are essential. Experience with atomistic simulation codes such as VASP, GPAW, LAMMPS is highly desirable, as well as with scripting and programming.

Postdoc Candidate

The successful applicant should have a PhD (or equivalent) degree in solid-state physics or materials science. The candidate should have extensive experience in using atomistic simulations at the density functional theory (DFT), tight-binding and empirical potential levels, preferably with good knowledge of time-dependent DFT and Ehrenfest dynamics. No prior experience in simulations of irradiation effects in solids is required, but it would definitely be a bonus. Experience in using/developing DFT code GPAW is highly desirable. Good scripting and programming experience is a must.

Duration and salary

The total duration of the positions is three years. The salary is based on the collective agreement TVöD-Bund. The successful candidate should start on the 1st of November 2015 or as soon afterwards as possible.

How to apply

Interested applicants should submit the complete application consisting of a cover letter, CV, a copy of study records (PhD applicants), certificates and contact information of at least two referees via the online application system

https://www.hzdr.de/db/Cms?pNid=490&pOid=45161&pContLang=en(postdoc)

https://www.hzdr.de/db/Cms?pNid=490&pOid=45192&pContLang=en (PhD student)

The deadline for applications is 15.09.2015. The application should be submitted in English.

For more information please contact Dr. Arkady Krasheninnikov (http://physics.aalto.fi/~ark