PhD position opening in ab initio Modeling of Nanostructures

The Nanostructure Physics Group at the University of Ostrava, Czech Republic, announces an opening for a PhD position in the field of ab initio modeling of nanostructures. Selected features of 2D materials, nanoparticles, or clusters (like their interactions/interfaces, electronic structure, optical properties, and suitability for photocatalysis) will be studied by density functional theory and beyond. Tuning of effective computational methods to reference many-body ones is expected.

Field: Physics of Nanostructures, Computational Materials Science
University: University of Ostrava
Location: Ostrava, Czech Republic
Advisor: Dr. František Karlický (https://nano.osu.cz/frantisek-karlicky/)

What We Offer:

• A fully-funded PhD position
• Membership in the Nanostructure Physics Group (https://nano.osu.cz)
• Access to supercomputing facilities
• Opportunities to participate in teaching activities
• Involvement in the Life & Environment Research Center Ostrava project, specifically within Research Program 3 – Modeling and Simulations (https://lerco.osu.eu/29453/modeling-and-simulation/)

Requirements:

• A strong background in computational physics, materials science, quantum chemistry, or related fields.
• A Master’s degree in one of the aforementioned or related disciplines.
• Experience with atomistic simulations using periodic plane-wave codes (e.g., VASP, Quantum Espresso, Abinit) or periodic local-orbital codes (e.g., Crystal, Siesta, DFTB+).
• Proficient written and oral communication skills in English.
• The ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Admission Procedure:

The admission process begins with the submission of your application materials to nano@osu.cz with the e-mail title: “PhD position in ab initio modeling of nanostructures” by the 11th of May, 2025. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next steps.

Application Must Include:

• A detailed CV.
• A publication list.
• A cover letter detailing research interests, motivation, relevant expertise, and any other pertinent information.
• Names of two established researchers who can provide letters of recommendation.
• A completed form detailing experiences beyond basic academic requirements. [Download PDF or DOCX]

Optional Attachments:

• Diploma and diploma supplement (scans).
• Diploma thesis with supervisor’s and opponent’s assessments (PDF).
• Evaluation from the supervisor regarding the applicant’s cooperation (signed PDF with contact details).
• Letters of recommendation (signed PDFs).
• Proof of English proficiency (e.g., internationally recognized certificate).

Next Steps in Admission:

• Shortlisted applicants will receive a task to complete.
• Applicants submitting high-quality work will be invited for an online interview.
• Further steps in the admission process will be communicated individually.

Important Note:

The receipt of applications will be confirmed by email within one week of delivery.

We are looking forward to all applications!