PhD Position in Nanofluidics with Integrated Nanophotonic Functionalities Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden

Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg, Sweden, invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in nanofluidics with integrated nanophotonic functionalities. The successful candidate will join the Langhammer Group at the Division of Chemical Physics, Department of Physics, and participate in a cross-disciplinary research project funded by the Swedish Research Council. This project is executed in collaboration with Prof. Timur Shegai and Prof. Angela Grommet, focusing on the integration of nanofluidic devices with nanophotonic functionalities in the context of heterogeneous catalysis and polaritonic chemistry.

The Langhammer Group operates at the intersection of nanomaterial science, nanoplasmonics, nanofluidics, single-molecule optical microscopy, single particle catalysis, and hydrogen nanosensors. The group is known for developing state-of-the-art nanofabrication methodologies and custom research instrumentation. The current project aims to merge nanofluidics and nanophotonics, confining both matter and light in tailored nanoarchitectures. These systems will enable direct access to the interior of optical cavities in a flow-through manner and, through advanced light scattering properties, allow direct visualization of individual molecules. The combination of optical and geometrical confinement at similar length scales is expected to revolutionize the control and in situ characterization of photochemical and catalytic processes at the nanoscale.

The research builds on recent achievements in single particle catalysis, single molecule microscopy, optical microcavities, and modulation of photochemical behavior under confinement, as evidenced by publications in leading journals. As a doctoral student, you will plan and execute experiments, characterize sample systems, analyze data, present findings at meetings and conferences, and publish results in high-impact journals. You will also take advanced courses within the Graduate School of Physics or Materials Science and may teach or perform departmental duties up to 20% of your time.

Eligibility: Applicants must hold a Master's degree (120 credits) or a Master's degree (60 credits) in Physics, Applied Physics, Nanoscience, or Nanotechnology, or a 4-year Bachelor's degree for students educated outside Sweden. Strong English communication skills and experience in experimental scientific work in relevant domains are required. Additional experience in micro- and nanofabrication, nanophotonics, nanofluidics, advanced optical microscopy/spectroscopy, catalysis/photochemistry, programming (Python, MATLAB), and machine learning for data analysis will strengthen your application. Personal competences such as teamwork, initiative, and responsibility-taking are essential. Physical presence throughout the study period and a valid residence permit by the start date are mandatory.

Funding: The position is fully funded for four years, with a starting salary of 34,550 SEK per month (from May 25, 2025). The contract may be extended up to five years with teaching or departmental duties. As a Chalmers employee, you will enjoy comprehensive benefits, including generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, and healthcare. Chalmers is committed to gender equality and diversity, offering Swedish language courses for international students.

Application: Submit your application in English via the online form, attaching all required documents as PDFs (max 40 MB each). Required documents include CV, personal letter, motivation statement, and transcripts. Incomplete applications and those sent by email will not be considered. References will be requested after the interview. The application deadline is March 22, 2026.

For further information, contact Professor Christoph Langhammer at [email protected]. For application details, visit the official Chalmers job portal.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a leading research group and contribute to pioneering work at the interface of nanofluidics and nanophotonics in a vibrant academic environment.