Applications are welcomed for a 3-year post-doctoral position on computational materials science. Topics include, but are not limited to, electrochemistry, structural properties of materials, calculation of potential energy surfaces as well as different aspects of catalysis.

The research will be carried out at Aalto University, Finland in the Microsystem Technology group (headed by Associate professor Tomi Laurila, http://eea.aalto.fi/en/research/microsystem/) and in the Electronics Integration and Reliability group (headed by Associate Professor Mervi Paulasto-Kröckel) at the Department of Electrical Engineering and Automation. The Microsystem Technology group focuses on the development of hybrid nanocarbon electrodes with high sensitivity and selectivity towards detection of neurotransmitters, in particular dopamine. Dopamine plays a major role in a number of neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases, and improving our detection capability for this substance is of major scientific and technological interest. This work is done in an eminently multidisciplinary international collaboration with a wide network of researchers in materials chemistry, nanofabrication and characterization, analytical electrochemistry, biomaterials science, computational materials science and neuroscience. The Electronics Integration and Reliability group is specialized on advanced materials and 3D integration technologies for MEMS/NEMS and power electronics, as well as performance of multi-material structures as-processed and under different loads.

Job description

In order to complement and guide the experimental work, computational atomistic simulations are heavily utilized by professor Laurila's group. This task is carried out in close collaboration with several persons from the Centre of Excellence in Computational Nanoscience (COMP), including Professor Patrick Rinke, Professor Kari Laasonen and Dr. Miguel Caro. The present project consists of applying computational approaches, such as density functional theory calculations and molecular dynamics simulations to develop and improve our understanding of the interaction between biomolecules and different carbon allotropes (amorphous carbon, graphene, diamond, carbon nanotubes etc.) at the atomic level, understanding surface properties of thin films and the study of chemical reactions. The project will target phenomena such as adsorption and electron transfer, and developing a combined theoretical and experimental strategy towards gaining fundamental insight into these processes. The goal of the project at the Electronics Integration and Reliability group is to develop high purity, thermally conductive ALD AlN films for transparent electronics and vertical piezoelectric structures for in-plane actuation in MEMS. By combining the atomistic and continuum models we aim to gain a better understanding of the structural properties of these thin films.

The salary is based on Aalto University's salary scheme. The contract includes occupational health care. The position is contract-based. The post-doctoral position is for a three year period.

Requirements

The successful applicant should hold a Doctoral degree in physics, chemistry, materials science, or related fields. Proficiency with computers is a strong requirement and skills such as programming and familiarity with Linux are highly desirable. Previous experience with electronic structure calculations or molecular dynamics codes is considered mandatory. A strong command of written and spoken English is absolutely necessary, as is the predisposition to work as part of a team and to communicate the results of the research as written publications and at selected international conferences.

How to apply

If you are interested in applying the position, please send your application online via the link at the end of this message.

The application in one single merged PDF file should include:

- Cover letter

- CV

- List of publications and PDFs of your 5 main publications

- Doctoral degree certificate

- Letters of recommendation (max. 2)

Name your document as follows: lastname_firstname_filename_YYYY-MM-DD.pdf (eg. smith_john_cv_2013-07-04.pdf) The deadline for applications is June 30, 2017. The position will be filled as soon as possible afterwards. Aalto University reserves the right to extend the application period and to consider candidates who have not submitted applications during the application period.

Additional information

For more information please contact Professor Tomi Laurila, Professor Mervi Paulasto-Kröckel or Dr. Miguel Caro. In recruitment process related questions, contact HR Coordinator Jaana Hänninen. Email: [email protected]

Aalto University is a community of bold thinkers where science and art meet technology and business. We are committed to identifying and solving grand societal challenges and building an innovative future. Aalto University has six schools with nearly 20 000 students and more than 400 professors. Our campuses are located in Espoo and Helsinki, Finland.

Applications can be submitted through the Saima system: https://rekry.saima.fi/aaltohome/application_edit_welcome.html?job_id=1324&field_id=0&place_id=84&did=5900&jc=1&lang=en