Postdoctoral position in electron irradiation of condensed matter

7 days ago


Aarhus, Denmark Aarhus Universitet Full time

Department of Physics and Astronomy - Center for Interstellar Catalysis

Postdoctoral position in electron irradiation of condensed matter

Deadline 28 Feb 2025: 23:59 CET

Expected start 1 May 2025

Department of Physics and Astronomy - Center for Interstellar Catalysis Ny Munkegade 120 8000 Aarhus C

Fixed term full-time position 1 May 2025 - 31 Aug 2026 ID: 17177

We are seeking applicants for a 16-month postdoctoral position to study spontaneous polarization in molecular ices. The position will be opened at the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Aarhus University, and the candidate will be working within the Center for Interstellar Catalysis.

Job description

This position is funded by the Villum Experiment Grant titled “Molecular Motions in Frozen Water”, which aims to study spontaneous polarisation effects in thin layers of water ice that are of relevance to astrochemistry. When dipolar molecules condense on a substrate at cryo-temperatures, the resulting films often spontaneously harbour electric fields that result from the collective ordering of molecular dipoles. This phenomenon manifests as a polarisation potential at the film surface. Direct measurement of the surface potential allows for characterisation of the degree of molecular orientation within the film. Changes in the degree of molecular orientation induced by temperature, for example, can be used to quantify molecular diffusion. This project aims to build an instrument capable of directly measuring these surface potentials and, by doing so, to explore a new method for quantifying molecular diffusion in molecular films.

Other types of experimental data, including scanning tunnelling microscopy imaging and neutron reflectivity will then be used to place the surface potential measurements in context.

The successful candidate will be expected to build an electron irradiation source capable of measuring surface potentials atop condensed films of molecular ices prepared under astrochemically relevant conditions. They will work within the Center for Interstellar Catalysis, under the supervision of project PI Andrew Cassidy and the Center Leader, Liv Hornekær.

The position will include the following tasks:

  • To design, build and test a low energy, electron irradiation source.
  • To participate in ongoing experiments at the AU-UV beamline at the ASTRID2 synchrotron facility, at the host institution, where this electron source is to be implemented.
  • To participate in ongoing neutron reflectivity experiments at the AMOR beamline at the Paul Scherrer Institute, Switzerland.
  • To participate in ongoing low temperature scanning tunnelling microscopy experiments within the Center for Interstellar Catalysis.
  • To assist with the supervision of students involved in the above experiments.
  • To be an active, intellectually contributing and supportive member of the Center for Interstellar Catalysis.
Your profile

Applicants should hold a PhD in experimental physics, physical chemistry or a similarly related field.

Demonstrated expertise in some or all of the following areas will be preferred:

  • Using synchrotron radiation for surface science experiments.
  • Using neutron scattering techniques for characterising the condensed phase.
  • Low-temperature scanning tunnelling-microscopy.
  • Water ice chemistry and structure.
  • Molecular diffusion on surfaces.

Demonstrated expertise in some of the following areas will be beneficial but is not required:

  • Experimental astrochemistry.
  • Molecular films of water and other ices.
  • Molecular diffusion.
  • Electron optics.

The applicant should have good proficiency in English and should be able to work positively and communicatively in a team.

Applicants are asked to submit the following documents:

  • a 1-page cover letter stating the relevant experience, projects and motivation for applying for the position.
  • a cv containing a list of publications and contact details for at least 2 referees.
Who we are

You will join the Center for Interstellar Catalysis, within the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Aarhus University. The Center for Interstellar Catalysis hosts a diverse team of scientists working together to understand the physical and chemical processes that develop chemical complexity in the star forming regions of space. This research team includes theoreticians, observational astronomers and experimentalists. Our experimental facilities are extensive and our research makes heavy use of the ASTRID2 synchrotron facility. This is an international user facility and provides ample networking opportunities.

What we offer
  • a well-developed research infrastructure, laboratories and access to shared equipment
  • an exciting interdisciplinary environment with many national and international collaborators
  • a research climate encouraging lively, open and critical discussion within and across different fields of research
  • a work environment with close working relationships, networking and social activities
  • a workplace characterised by professionalism, equality and a healthy work-life balance.
Place of work and area of employment

The place of work is Department of Physics and Astronomy, Ny Munkegade 120, DK-8000 Aarhus C., and the area of employment is Aarhus University with related departments.

Contact information

For further information, please contact: Center Manager Andrew Cassidy, +45 2362 8776,

Deadline

Applications must be received no later than 28th Feb 2025.

Application procedure

Shortlisting is used. This means that after the deadline for applications – and with the assistance from the assessment committee chairman, and the appointment committee if necessary, – the head of department selects the candidates to be evaluated. All applicants will be notified whether or not their applications have been sent to an expert assessment committee for evaluation. The selected applicants will be informed about the composition of the committee, and each applicant is given the opportunity to comment on the part of the assessment that concerns him/her self. Once the recruitment process is completed a final letter of rejection is sent to the deselected applicants.

Letter of reference

If you want a referee to upload a letter of reference on your behalf, please state the referee’s contact information when you submit your application. We strongly recommend that you make an agreement with the person in question before you enter the referee’s contact information, and that you ensure that the referee has enough time to write the letter of reference before the application deadline. Unfortunately, it is not possible to ensure that letters of reference received after the application deadline will be taken into consideration.

Formalities and salary range

Natural Sciences refers to the Ministerial Order on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Danish Universities under the Danish Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation.

The application must be in English and include a curriculum vitae, degree certificate, a complete list of publications, a statement of future research plans and information about research activities, teaching portfolio and verified information on previous teaching experience (if any). Guidelines for applicants can be found here.

Appointment shall be in accordance with the collective labour agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. Further information on qualification requirements and job content may be found in the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff at Danish Universities.

Salary depends on seniority as agreed between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Confederation of Professional Associations.

Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants.

Research activities will be evaluated in relation to actual research time. Thus, we encourage applicants to specify periods of leave without research activities, in order to be able to subtract these periods from the span of the scientific career during the evaluation of scientific productivity.

Aarhus University offers a broad variety of services for international researchers and accompanying families, including relocation service and career counselling to expat partners. Read more here. Please find more information about entering and working in Denmark here.

Aarhus University also offers a Junior Researcher Development Programme targeted at career development for postdocs at AU. You can read more about it here.

At the Faculty of Natural Science at Aarhus University, we strive to support our scientific staff in their career development. We focus on competency development and career clarification and want to make your opportunities transparent. On our website, you can find information on all types of scientific positions, as well as the entry criteria we use when assessing candidates. You can also read more about how we can assist you in your career planning and development.

The application must be submitted via Aarhus University’s recruitment system, which can be accessed under the job advertisement on Aarhus University's website.

Questions about the position?

Andrew Cassidy Centre Manager, Department of Physics and Astronomy

Deadline: Friday 28 Feb 2025 at 23:59 CET

#J-18808-Ljbffr

  • Aarhus, Denmark Aarhus Universitet Full time

    Postdoctoral positions in PlantTip project Deadline 6 Mar 23:59 CET Expected start 1 May Fixed term full-time position 1 May 2025 - 30 Apr 2028 ID: 17154 The Department of Management at Aarhus BSS, Aarhus University, invites applications for two 3-year postdoctoral positions in the international Novo Nordisk Foundation-funded project "PlantTip". The...


  • Aarhus, Denmark Aarhus Universitet Full time

    Department of Political Science - Aarhus BSS Postdoctoral position in research project on interest groups Deadline 3 Mar 23:59 CET Expected start 1 May The Department of Political Science at Aarhus BSS, Aarhus University, invites applications for one 2-year fulltime postdoctoral position to join a new research programme on interest groups and other private...


  • Aarhus, Denmark Comses Full time

    Informally; The successful applicant would work closely with me on all ABM-related work. If you are curious about the project, the department, and/or living in Aarhus, Denmark, please do not hesitate to get in touch ( ). – The Department of Management at Aarhus BSS, Aarhus University, invites applications for a three-year postdoctoral position in the...


  • Aarhus C, Denmark Aarhus Universitet Full time

    The SeisLab Aarhus research group at the Department of Geoscience, Aarhus University, Denmark, invites applications for a postdoctoral position in marine geophysics and marine geoarchaeology. We are searching for a motivated and engaged researcher with experience in marine geophysics to be part of a newly started research group studying late Quaternary and...


  • Aarhus, Denmark Aarhus Universitet Full time

    Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics - Faculty: Technical Sciences Postdoctoral fellow in quantitative genetics to develop breeding goals for potato Deadline 15 Mar 23:59 CET Expected start 1 Jul Fixed term full-time position 1 Jul 2025 - 30 Jun 2027 ID: 17001 Applications are invited for a postdoctoral fellowship position at the Center for...


  • Aarhus C, Denmark Aarhus Universitet Full time

    Applications are invited for a postdoctoral fellowship position at the Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics, Aarhus University, Denmark. We are seeking applicants for a position in quantitative genetics aimed at developing breeding goals for potato. Expected start date and duration of employment It is a two-year position starting the 1st of July...

  • Two postdoc positions

    4 weeks ago


    Aarhus N, Denmark Aarhus Universitet Full time

    The Department of Forensic Medicine at Faculty of Health at Aarhus University invites applications for two postdoctoral positions in LC-QTOF-MS based metabolomics research within the Section for Forensic Chemistry and Bioanalytical Unit. The positions are fixed-term full-time positions for 2- and 3-years, respectively, with an intended start date April 1st,...

  • Production Planner

    2 days ago


    Aarhus, Denmark Advansor Full time

    Requisition ID: 59159 Company: Dover Food Retail Position: Production Planner About Us: Advansor is looking for a Production Planner to become a part of an international team driven by finding the best customer solutions. Do you have a strong analytic mindset? A keen interest in planning and a sense for systems and details? If yes, please keep reading....

  • Hardware Engineer

    7 days ago


    Aarhus, Denmark Enabl Wind Full time

    At ENABL , you will get the opportunity to contribute to a more sustainable future. You will be part of a global company providing consulting and equipment solutions for onshore and offshore wind turbines.We are driven by high professionalism. We have a strong unity and an open and honest tone, where we help each other to succeed. As a person, you can take...


  • Aarhus, Denmark Vestas Full time

    Grid-Forming (GFM) Control Technology Specialist Requisition ID: 63362 Location(s): Aarhus N, Region Central Jutland, DK Leça do Balio, Grande Porto, PT Type of position: Full-Time Job Family: Engineering Are you interested in shaping innovation in renewable energy and contributing to a more sustainable future? Join Vestas as a Specialist and take a...


  • Aarhus, Denmark Aarhus Universitet Full time

    Assistant Professor of Metabolism, Vascular Biology and Inflammation Deadline 25 Feb 23:59 CET Expected start 1 Jun Fixed term full-time position 1 Jun 2025 - 31 May 2027 ID: 17287 The Department of Biomedicine at Faculty of Health at Aarhus University invites applications for a position as Assistant Professor in the field of metabolism, cardiovascular...


  • Aarhus, Denmark Aarhus Universitet Full time

    School of Culture and Society - Russian and Balkan Studies, subject - Faculty: Arts Teaching Associate Professorship in Russian Language Deadline 7 Mar 2025 23:59 CET Expected start 1 Aug 2025 School of Culture and Society - Russian and Balkan Studies, subject Jens Chr. Skous Vej 7 8000 Aarhus C Fixed term full-time position 1 Aug 2025 - 31 Jul 2027 ID:...


  • Aarhus, Denmark Vestas Full time

    Supplier Quality and Development Specialist - Electricals Posted: 15 January 2025 Requisition ID: 62445 Location: Aarhus N, Region Central Jutland, DK Work experience: Specialist Type of position: Full-Time Job Family: Quality, Health, Safety and Environment Join our team and take charge in ensuring top-tier supplier performance for critical electrical...

  • Visual Designer

    2 days ago


    Aarhus, Denmark Emply Denmark Full time

    Are you passionate about visual design development across brand collateral that ranges from retail marketing to product packaging? Do you enjoy rolling up your sleeves, hanging up the moodboard, and executing on conceptual ideas? If so, we’re looking for a talented Visual Designer to join our dynamic Brand Marketing team. Help us strengthen and evolve our...

  • Visual Designer

    2 days ago


    Aarhus, Denmark Rains AS Full time

    Are you passionate about visual design development across brand collateral that ranges from retail marketing to product packaging? Do you enjoy rolling up your sleeves, hanging up the moodboard, and executing on conceptual ideas? If so, we’re looking for a talented Visual Designer to join our dynamic Brand Marketing team. Help us strengthen and evolve our...


  • Aarhus, Denmark Systematic Full time

    Select how often (in days) to receive an alert: IT Operations Specialist Are you experienced diagnosing and resolving IT incidents? Do you see opportunities for improvement on existing solutions? Are you able to heighten platform security? And do you thrive working in projects supporting a business with various needs and occurring incidents? Well, look no...


  • Aarhus, Denmark SUPERB - Full time

    About Superb: At Superb, we set out to empower restaurants, bars and cafés worldwide with an easier way of working. Running a hospitality business is hard work, and using multiple systems is not making it easier. Until now… Superb gathers all the tools to open, run and grow your business — in one platform.From reservations, orders and payments to...


  • Aarhus, Denmark Vestas Full time

    Grid Compliance Specialist, Converter Control Posted: 10 February 2025 Requisition ID: 63373 Location(s): Aarhus N, Region Central Jutland, DK; Leça do Balio, Grande Porto, PT Work experience: Professional Type of position: Full-Time Job Family: Engineering Are you interested in developing innovative converter solutions that power the future of...


  • Aarhus, Denmark Systematic Full time

    Select how often (in days) to receive an alert: Test Engineer for Defence training platform If you are a skilled software tester, who enjoys breaking and building excellent high-quality software, who is not afraid to work on a young(er) product constantly growing, and who thrives in a large network of Test Engineers providing each other with professional...


  • Aarhus C, Denmark Aarhus Universitet Full time

    The Department of Biomedicine at Faculty of Health at Aarhus University invites applications for a position as Postdoc in the field of vision science/retinal biology and retinal pathophysiology as per 1 April 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter. The position is a fixed-term full-time position for 2 years. The department of Biomedicine prioritises...