Nanostructured X-ray detectors

This project will use nanofabrication methods to create novel high-resolution X-ray detectors. Detectors convert high-energy X-ray photons into an electrical signal, and are critical in X-ray systems for clinical and industrial applications. Established bulk detectors have relatively large pixels, which limits the resolution in for instance X-ray microscopy. The project aims at reducing the pixel size of X-ray detectors from the current micrometer size to tens of nanometers.

The student will study the interaction of X-rays with nanostructures, with the aim of developing future high-resolution detectors. In particular, nanowires and other nanostructures will be investigated as X-ray detectors. To this end, the project will create devices in the Lund Nano Lab (http://www.nano.lu.se/facilities/lund-nano-lab-(lnl)/about-lnl), which has world class facilities for nanodevice fabrication. Detectors will be made using electron beam lithography, metal evaporation and other nanofabrication tools. The devices will initially be characterized and optimized using electrical and optical methods. Subsequently, the devices will be tested using nanofocused X-ray beams at the Nanomax beamline at the new MAX IV synchrotron, as well as at PETRA-III in Germany, ESRF in France and possibly other international synchrotron facilities.

The project is primarily experimental and will require extensive work in the cleanroom of the Lund Nano Lab. Knowledge and experience of X-rays is not required; this will form a part of the training as required.

Entry requirements
A formal requirement for doctoral studies in physics is:
• a university degree on advanced level within a related field, such as a Master’s degree in physics or equivalent, or
• substantial advanced course work at the Master level, or comparable, including an independent research project.

The degree does not have to be completed at the time of application.

Furthermore, the acceptance is based on the estimated ability to accomplish postgraduate studies.

Other requirements:
Good knowledge in spoken and written English is a requirement.

Basis of assessment
Selection to postgraduate studies is based on the expected ability to perform well in the studies. The evaluation of the ability to perform well is based primarily on the results of studies at the basic and advanced levels, in particular:
1. Knowledge and skills relevant to postgraduate studies within the research area, such as a broad and thorough preparation in physics. This can be documented by appended documents.
2. Estimated ability to work independently and the ability to formulate and solve scientific questions. This ability can be established, for example, based on undergraduate research experiences, a Master’s thesis or in a discussion of scientific problems during a possible interview.
3. Skills in written and oral communication.
4. Other experience relevant to postgraduate studies, such as professional experience.

Other assessment criteria:
For the present position, competence in semiconductor physics and related experimental methods are of special value.

Additional assessment criteria are:
1. Experience in semiconductor fabrication techniques such as lithography
2. Experience in semiconductor physics
3. Experience in X-ray sources, X-ray detectors and X-ray imaging
4. Experience in programming
5. Experience in optical and electrical characterization of semiconductors.
6. Experience with novel materials, such perovskites or nanowires.

Important personal qualities are, beside creativity and a curious mind, the ability to work both independently and in a group and experience in the scientific interaction with researchers from other disciplines and in other countries. We consider good cooperation ability, drive and independent work ability as positive personal attributes.