PhD student: Weyl semiconductors as a platform to realize a charge pump

We are seeking a motivated PhD student to join a collaborative project between RISE and Chalmers, developing topologically protected quantum devices based on Weyl semiconductors for future metrological applications.

Background

At RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, we advance Sweden's measurement capabilities and scientific excellence through research, innovation, and international collaboration. As Sweden's National Metrology Institute (NMI), we ensure traceability for a wide range of physical quantities and develop new ways of measuring both classical and emerging parameters. Our work supports progress across fields such as smart power grids, autonomous vehicles, manufacturing precision, and health technologies.

You will join the Temperature and Electrical Primary Metrology unit within our Measurement Technology Division, a team of about 20 researchers and engineers working at the forefront of electronics and temperature measurement. Research and development form an integral part of our mission, including research on new quantum-based realizations of the SI-units.

With funding from Stiftelsen för Strategisk Forskning (SSF) we are now looking for an industrial PhD student in collaboration with Chalmers University of Technology. You will be employed by RISE and follow the PhD program of Chalmers' Quantum Device Physics Laboratory (QDP) in Gothenburg.

The Quantum Device Physics Laboratory (QDP) at the department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience conducts research which extends over a variety of different topics, including quantum computation, spintronics, molecular and single electronics, and exotic materials such as high temperature superconductors, graphene and topological insulators. QDP is therefore divided into three sub groups: Experimental Mesoscopic Physics (EMP), Quantum Devices & Oxide Electronics (QuOx) and the Bolometer Group. Altogether, the QDP lab focuses on studying nano electronic components beyond classical electrodynamics, and explores possibilities to make quantum mechanical effects useful in practical devices. As a PhD student, you will conduct experimental research on hybrid devices comprising topological insulators proximised with a superconductor and nanowires based single electron transistors.

For the first couple of years, the majority of your time will be spent at Chalmers, Göteborg. As the project progresses the last years could include a significant amount of time spent at RISEs laboratories in Borås.

About the role

Quantum materials (QMs) are rapidly reshaping condensed matter physics, with new systems discovered at an accelerating speed. A major milestone in the recent years was the discovery of topological insulators (TIs), which combine an insulating bulk with robust metallic surface or edge states with ta Dirac dispersion. These states are "topologically protected," remaining stable even in the presence of disorder.

Once considered rare, topological phases are now recognized as widespread; large-scale computational studies show that most stoichiometric, nonmagnetic materials possess at least one topological band. Nevertheless, the practical exploitation of TIs has been hampered by material imperfections and the difficulty of tuning electronic states to the Dirac point. Weyl semimetals have recently emerged as a promising alternative. They feature Weyl points—linear band crossings in three-dimensional momentum space—that give rise to exotic effects such as the chiral anomaly, enabling low-loss, long-range transport. However, their typically high carrier density makes Fermi-level control challenging. Tellurium (Te), identified as a Weyl semiconductor, offers a solution by combining a conventional bandgap with tunable Weyl points.

This project aims to harness Te nanoribbons to realize a topologically protected single-electron charge pump. Such a device could establish a practical quantum current standard, paving the way for high-frequency applications in metrology, sensing, and quantum information.

You will also be expected to understand and integrate the metrological perspective and maintain regular communication with RISE. Although much of the experimental work, especially during the first two years, will take place at Chalmers, it is essential that you engage actively with RISE's research environment. Supervision will be shared between RISE and Chalmers.

Your work will include:

• Extensive cleanroom work, nanofabrications, and growth of Weyl semiconductors.
• Low-temperature measurements at both Chalmers and RISE.

Who Are You?

We're looking for a curious and driven individual who enjoys tackling complex challenges and finding creative solutions. You combine a strong analytical mindset with hands-on problem-solving skills and a genuine enthusiasm for experimental work. You collaborate naturally with others and value sharing knowledge in a research setting, yet you are also confident working independently and taking initiative.

You remain calm and focused under pressure and approach challenges with perseverance and structure. Most importantly, you have a sincere interest in metrology and measurement science.

Mandatory qualifications

• Master's degree in Physics or Applied Physics/Engineering.
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills within a research team.
• Fluent in English.

Meritorious qualifications

• Experience in nanofabrication of electronic devices (cleanroom environment).
• Experience in low-level electronic measurements at cryogenic temperatures.
• Experience in nanowire or thin-film growth.
• Strong inner drive and ability to work independently.
• Demonstrated ability to perform high-quality research in nanoelectronics.
• Proven potential to reach excellence in the research field.

Welcome with your application

If you have any questions, please contact:

By submitting your application, you consent to representatives from Chalmers University of Technology having access to your application.

The deadline for applications is December 14, 2025. Please note that selection and interviews may be conducted on an ongoing basis during the application period.

Our union representatives are Linda Ikatti (Unionen), , and Ingemar Petermann (SACO),

We kindly decline all contact from external recruitment agencies and sales representatives, as RISE is subject to the Swedish Public Procurement Act.