Postdoc in Computational Physics of Semiconductors and Functional Materials

Are you interested in understanding the fundamental physics of materials beyond idealized models? Join our research group at Chalmers to explore how electronic structure and atomic dynamics govern the properties of semiconductors and functional materials using advanced computational methods.

About us

The Division of Condensed Matter and Materials Theory at the Department of Physics and Astronomy develops theoretical and computational approaches to understand a wide range of materials and condensed matter systems. Our research combines theory, method development, and computational modelling, often in close collaboration with experimental groups in Sweden and internationally.

Our research group focuses on understanding materials at the atomic scale, combining electronic-structure calculations, atomistic simulations, and machine-learning approaches to investigate the interplay between atomic structure, dynamics, and electronic properties.

We offer an international and collaborative research environment, close connections to experimental groups, and access to state-of-the-art computational resources.

About the research project 

The project aims to understand how complex atomic-scale phenomena determine the behaviour of semiconductors and functional materials. Topics of interest include charge localization, electron–phonon interactions, defects, structural dynamics, and electronic and optical properties.

We use a combination of first-principles calculations, molecular dynamics, and machine-learning-based methods to study materials under realistic conditions.

The specific research direction will be developed together with the successful candidate, taking into account their expertise, interests, and original ideas. We particularly welcome candidates who bring new perspectives, methodological expertise, or creative approaches to challenging problems in computational materials physics.

Who we are looking for

The following requirements are mandatory:

• A doctoral degree in physics, materials science, chemistry, or a closely related field. This eligibility requirement must be met no later than the time the employment decision is made.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Experience in computational materials science or condensed matter physics.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research, critically analyze results, and solve challenging scientific problems.
• Good communication and collaboration skills, as well as the ability to contribute to a collaborative research environment.
• Potential to contribute to research and education, including supervision and teaching.

The following experience will strengthen your application:

• It is highly meritorious if the doctoral degree has been obtained within the last three years prior to the application deadline.
• Experience with advanced computational approaches, such as electronic-structure methods beyond standard DFT, molecular dynamics, machine-learning interatomic potentials, or computational method development.
• Experience studying electron–phonon interactions, charge localization, defects, excited states, or finite-temperature properties of materials.
• Experience with computational method development or adapting existing methods to address new scientific questions.

What you will do

• Conduct independent research on the electronic and atomistic properties of semiconductors and functional materials.
• Develop and apply advanced computational approaches to investigate complex physical phenomena.
• Collaborate with other researchers within the group and with our international experimental and theoretical partners.
• Publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at international conferences.
• Contribute to the supervision of master's and PhD students.
• Have the opportunity to participate in teaching at undergraduate and master's level.
• The position is meritorious for future roles in academia, industry, or the public sector.

Contract terms

The position is a temporary full-time employment for two years with the possibility of a one-year extension.

The position requires physical presence throughout the entire employment. A valid residence permit must be presented by the start date, otherwise the offer may be withdrawn.

What we offer

• As a postdoc at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about  working at Chalmers  and our benefits  for employees.
• A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.
• Read more about Sweden’s generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare etc at Move To Gothenburg.

Chalmers is dedicated to improving gender balance and actively works with equality projects, such as the GENIE Initiative for gender equality and excellence. We celebrate diversity and consider equality and inclusion as fundamental aspects of all our activities.

If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in.

Application procedure

The application should be written in English be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.

CV

• A comprehensive CV, including a complete list of publications.
• Details of previous teaching and pedagogical experience.

Personal letter

• A brief introduction about yourself.
• Describe one or two of your most significant scientific contributions, highlighting your own role and the new physical insights or methodological advances achieved.
• An outline of your future research interests and goals.

Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. 

A background check may be conducted as part of the application process.

Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. Contact details to references will be requested after the interview.

We welcome your application no later than 30 Nov. 2026

For questions, please contact:

Julia Wiktor
Professor
julia.wiktor@chalmers.se

We look forward to your application!

*Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. * 

Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has 3100 employees and 10,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture. With scientific excellence as a basis, Chalmers promotes knowledge and technical solutions for a sustainable world. Through global commitment and entrepreneurship, we foster an innovative spirit, in close collaboration with wider society.
Chalmers was founded in 1829 and has the same motto today as it did then: Avancez – forward.