PhD position in Cavity-Material Engineering - DTU Physics

We are seeking a motivated PhD students to develop atomistic simulation for the design of novel quantum phases in strongly interacting light-matter systems. You will join the “Theory of light-matter interaction in quantum materials” group at DTU physics. Check our website here .

About the Project:
You will get your PhD within the Villum Young Investigator project. This project rethinks material design by mixing light and matter at the quantum level. You will work on the discovery of equilibrium quantum phase transitions induced by the quantum fluctuations of light in optical cavities hosting solid state crystals. You will develop the theoretical tools to simulate realistic, tunable and responsive light-matter systems.

You will be strongly involved in the activities of our recently funded SPARKLE network – a European collaboration across 8 different European countries to push the boundaries of polaritonic materials. Visit SPARKLE’s website here .

As a PhD student at DTU, you will:

• Design and develop advanced atomistic simulation methodologies for studying interacting light-matter systems.
• Collaborate internationally with leading researchers in light-matter interaction and ab-initio simulations

This position provides an exciting opportunity to work at the forefront of interdisciplinary research, combining theory and computational techniques to make an impact in the future of quantum technologies. 

Responsibilities and qualifications
You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree. Preferably, you have a master’s degree in physics, Materials Science or equivalent by the time you commence the project. 

What we are looking for
We are looking for a candidate who 

• Is motivated, dedicated, and capable of working collaboratively within a team.
• Possess experience in theoretical condensed matter physics, especially in ab initio simulations for materials (preferred).
• Is proficient in scientific programming (preferably Python) and comfortable working with scientific software.
• Demonstrate strong communication skills (in English) and the ability to present and discuss scientific ideas effectively.

Who you will be working with
You will be working at the department of physics at DTU with Assistant Professor Simone Latini within the 2DPHYS section (for more info on the section visit the website here).  You will be able to participate in the activities of the SPARKLE European wide network and you will have the unique opportunity of research stays in other institutions. You will also benefit from the tight connections to the Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter in Hamburg, Germany. 

Approval and Enrolment
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education . 

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. 

The expected start date is 1 June 2025 (or according to mutual agreement). The position is a full-time position. The period of employment is 3 years.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here http://www.dtu.dk/english/about/job-and-career/working-at-dtu/career-paths.

Further information  
Further information can be obtained by contacting Prof. Simone Latini ([email protected] ) or Jannie Nørgaard ([email protected] ). 

You can read more about the Department of Physics at DTU Physics .

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark . Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar ” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU. 

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 18 April 2025 (23:59 Danish time).  Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file . The file must include:

• A one-page letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae 
• A list of publications (if applicable)
• Copies of BSc, MSc diplomas (if already obtained)
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale. 
• Names and e-mail addresses or telephone numbers of 2 references.

You may apply prior to obtaining your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it. 

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

At DTU Physics , we perform research, teaching, and innovation in experimental and theoretical physics with the overall aim to benefit society. We contribute to the transition to sustainable energy via research and innovation in catalysis, Power-to-X, and nuclear energy solutions. We design and develop new functional materials, contribute to advances in geosciences and life sciences, and we develop and exploit quantum physics and quantum technologies.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.