Vacancies for two Ph.D. students at Ghent University & University of Luxembourg - Long-range correlation energies in extended systems: Monopolar charge fluctuations

We are pleased to announce two fully funded FWO/FNR PhD positions, in the frame of a collaboration between Ghent University and the University of Luxembourg, for a duration of four years, supervised by prof. Toon Verstraelen (UGent, Center for Molecular Modeling, http://molmod.ugent.be) and prof. Alexandre Tkatchenko (UL, Physics and Materials Science Research Unit, https://wwwen.uni.lu/research/fstc/physics_and_materials_science_research_unit). While one student will be hired at each university, the project requires mobility of both students between the two institutes. You will be working on new models for inter-/intra-molecular long-range correlation energies that take into account correlated atomic monopolar density fluctuations.

Job Description

The goal of this project is to develop a new computational model for the long-range correlation energy, which includes dispersion interactions. This new model is a unified framework encompassing the many-body dispersion method (developed by AT) and the atom-condensed Kohn-Sham model (proposed by TV). The main novelty is that the new model treats atomic monopole fluctuations on an equal footing with more standard fluctuating dipoles, for the computation of the long-range correlation energy. In this project, you will work on the development of theoretical formalisms, their implementation in simulation software and their numerical validation. You are expected to disseminate your research in publications in leading journals in the field and to submit and defend your thesis before the end of the contract.

Profile of the candidate

We are seeking exceptionally qualified and motivated applicants for these positions. This means only students with high grades and research experience in their B.Sc. and M.Sc. studies in physics, applied physics, chemistry or chemical engineering from renowned universities will be considered. This position is open for applicants with a background in molecular simulation, quantum mechanics, UNIX and programming in C++ and Python. In addition to a strong scientific and technical background, it is important that you have good scientific communication skills (written and oral) and sufficient social aptitude to integrate in a diverse and competitive research group.

How to apply

Applications should be sent to [email protected] before May 1, 2018, with the subject: "Application for Ph.D. position - Long-range correlation energies in extended systems: Monopolar charge fluctuations". The application should include:

• a detailed Curriculum Vitae,

• a cover letter describing why you should be considered for this position,

• transcripts of B.Sc. and M.Sc. courses and grades,

• copies of educational certificates and

• a list of two professors who have supervised you in your B.Sc. and/or M.Sc. research project and who are willing to provide a letter of recommendation.

All documents should be in PDF format and written in English. From all applications, a short-list of candidates will be made, who will be contacted for an interview over Skype.