Associate Professor:

Kristine Niss

IMFUFA, NSM, RUC

Do simple liquids exist?

"Isochronal jumps in the phase diagram studied by neutron scattering"

Experimental studies of the dynamics in molecular liquids from pico- to kilosecond as a function of temperature and pressure.

A project funded by DFF Sapere Aude : Starting Grant

PhD in Psysics

Roskilde University (RUC, Roskilde, Denmark) invites applications for a PhD position in in- and quasi-elastic neutron scattering on glass-forming liquids.

Job description

You will be part of a new research project led by Associate Professor Kristine Niss. This project aims at testing new theoretical predictions by means of in- and quasi-elastic neutron scattering. We will perform a range of experiments in which fast (pico-nano second) and slow (mili-kilo second) dynanimics are studied as function of both pressure and temperature in glass-forming liquids. The background is to test 1) a widespread hypothesis that slow and fast dynamics are closely related, and 2) predictions from the recently developed isomorph theory. The primary tools involve the use of in- and quasi-elastic neutron scattering methods, available at international large-scale facilities, and dielectric spectroscopy, available at Roskilde University.

Qualifications

Candidates must have a Master Degree in Physics or a related subject. Experience with high level experimental work (i.e. an experimental master thesis) is expected. Experience with amorphous condensed matter, relaxations and vibrations and/or scattering techniques is considered to be a merit.

Information about the research group and Roskilde University

You will be part of the "Glass and Time" research group. Research at "Glass and Time" focuses on understanding the universal physical properties of highly viscous liquids approaching the glass transition. This problem is attacked experimentally as well as by extensive computer simulations in combination with theory. In fact close collaboration and daily interactions between theorists and experimentalists is characteristic feature of the "Glass and Time" group. "Glass and Time" hosts several PhD students, postdocs, and experienced scientists.
Roskilde University
The most important task of Roskilde University is to contribute to experimental, innovative forms of learning and knowledge creation. The University is situated approximately 30 km from Copenhagen and is well connected with Copenhagen by trains that run four times an hour.

Employment

You will be employed for a period of three years starting from September 1st 2014. Employment is regulated by an agreement between the Ministry of Finance and the Central Organization of the Academics which imposes a basic salary for PhD students (higher than average PhD salaries in most other countries). Employment as PhD requires enrollment as PhD at Roskilde University. This takes a Master Degree or equivalent qualifications.
You will be associated to the "Glass and Time" research group at the Department and will have the opportunity to build networks with colleagues and collaborators in the field.
For further information regarding the position
You are welcome to contact Head of Department Stine Korreman by phone: +45 4674 3156 or e-mail: korreman@ruc.dk; or Associate Professor Kristine Niss e-mail: kniss@ruc.dk. You can read more about the Department at http://www.ruc.dk/en/departments/department-of-science-systems-and-models/, about Glass and Time at http://glass.ruc.dk and about the new research project at http://niss.ruc.dk.

Application

We only accept applications through our electronic recruitment system. To apply for the position you must go to the job advertisement on our homepage: http://www.ruc.dk/en/job/job/phd/. Click on the button "Apply for vacancy here" which appears immediately below the job advertisement. Then you fill the application form and attach the documents listed below. Finish by clicking "Submit". The application must encompass:

1. Your motivation for applying for this particular scholarship (attach this text as the “Project description”). You may include a project description in your motivation, but this is not required.
2. Schedule – time-frame of the Ph.D.: When would you prefer to start?
3. Budget (only required if special costs are incurred due to particular empirical studies – or longer stays overseas).
4. CV
5. Copies of relevant diplomas and exam-papers.
6. Copies of relevant recommendations, dissertation statement/statements, etc.

We must receive your application on or before August 1st 2014.
Application-related material received after theugust has4.
Roskilde University welcomes applications from candidates of any social and ethnic backgrounds irrespective of gender, age, religion or any other irrelevant criteria.

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