Doctoral Student in Self-Assembled Optical Microcavities Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden

Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg, Sweden, invites applications for a fully funded doctoral student position in self-assembled optical microcavities. The successful candidate will join the Division of Nano- and Biophysics at the Department of Physics, working within Professor Timur Shegai's research group. This innovative team focuses on cutting-edge research in nanoscience and nanotechnology, exploring the unique chemical and physical phenomena at the nanoscale and developing new technologies based on these principles.

The PhD project centers on tunable self-assembled optical microcavities, with research topics including the self-assembly processes governed by Casimir-Lifshitz and electrostatic interactions between gold or silver microflakes. The work is highly interdisciplinary, involving collaboration with experts in optical microcavities, nanophotonics, nanofluidics, and photochemistry. Both experimental and theoretical approaches will be employed, providing a broad scientific training and exposure to advanced research techniques.

Key publications relevant to the project include:
PNAS, Science Advances, and Nature. More information about the research group can be found at shegai-lab.com and Google Scholar.

The position is fully funded, with a starting salary of 34,550 SEK per month (from March 2025), and includes all employee benefits. The contract is for four years, extendable to five years with teaching duties (up to 20%). Doctoral studies require physical presence in Sweden throughout the study period, and a valid residence permit must be presented by the start date. Chalmers offers a dynamic and inspiring working environment, generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, and healthcare. The university is committed to gender equality and diversity, with initiatives such as the GENIE project.

Eligibility requirements include a Master's degree (120 credits) or Swedish magisterexamen (60 credits) in physics, or a 4-year Bachelor's degree for international applicants. Strong written and verbal English skills are essential. Applicants should be highly motivated and interested in nanoscience and nanotechnology. The application must include a CV, a two-page personal letter describing motivation and background, and copies of Master's and, if available, Bachelor's thesis and grade transcripts. Applications must be submitted online as PDF files; incomplete applications and those sent by email will not be considered.

The application deadline is March 8th, 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview with Professor Timur Shegai, focusing on previous research experience and future plans. For questions, contact Professor Timur Shegai at [email protected]. Apply via the official Chalmers portal: Application Link.

This position offers an excellent opportunity to launch a career in academic research, industry, or entrepreneurship in the fields of nanophotonics and optical microcavities.