Technology | Scholarship for Nigerians and Africans - Part 33

PhD or Postdoctoral Positions in Physics at Leiden University, Netherlands

The Leiden Institute of Physics is the oldest physics department in the Netherlands, with a long tradition of excellence in fundamental research. The current spectrum of research comprises subjects in condensed matter physics, nanoscience and nanotechnology, (bio-)molecular physics, quantum optics, cosmology & astroparticle physics, and the physics of biological and soft matter. The institute fosters an international atmosphere with strong interactions among the various groups as well as with other departments at the Faculty of Sciences.
We have developed a unique vacuum scanning tunneling microscope ( STM) that enables the observation of (polycrystalline) film growth in-situ and in real-time during the deposition [1]. Its special pivoting and rotating mechanism ensures the alignment of the deposition beam between the tip and the sample. In addition, this microscope is especially designed for high-speed imaging, which allows to record movies [2]. Within the framework of this project, we will use this microscope with the aim to unravel the underlying atomic processes that play a role in the morphology evolution both during film growth and after the deposition.For this position, we are searching for an ambitious candidate with a recent M.Sc. degree in physics. The ideal applicant has
•experience with Scanning Probe Microscopes, preferable STM,
•experience with vacuum setups,
•background knowledge in fundamental surface science and material science,
•and a strong affinity and experience with the operation of complex instrumentation.
Furthermore you have excellent communications skills in English, both written and verbal, and are expected to master the Dutch language sufficiently.


Scholarship Application Deadline:
before March 2011

Further Scholarship Information and Application

Fulbright-Nehru Postdoctoral Research Fellowship, USA

The Postdoctoral Research Fellowships will provide opportunities to talented scholars and professionals to strengthen their research capacities; have access to some of the finest resources in their areas of interest; and help build long-term collaborative relationships with U.S. faculty and institutions.

Applications from all disciplines will be considered. Priority fields are: Agricultural Sciences; Economics; Education; Energy, Sustainable Development and Climate Change; Environment; International Relations; Management and Leadership Development; Media and Communications with focus on Public Service Broadcasting; Public Administration; Public Health; Science and Technology; Study of India with focus on contemporary issues; and Study of the United States. For Study of India or the Study of the United States (American Studies) the areas could include: language and literature, history, government, economics, society and culture, religion, and film studies.

Grant Benefits
These fellowships provide round-trip economy class air travel from India to the U.S., a monthly stipend, Accident and Sickness Program for Exchanges per U.S. Government guidelines, a modest settling-in allowance, and a professional allowance.

Eligibility Requirements
In addition to the General Prerequisites:

*scholars and professionals should have a Ph.D. degree from an Indian institution within the past four years. Applicants must have obtained their Ph.D. degrees between July 2007 and July 2011;
*candidates must be published in reputed journals and demonstrate evidence of superior academic and professional achievement;
*should enclose a recent significant publication (copy of paper/article);
*if employed, applications should be routed through proper channel; and
* preferably be 45 years of age or under

Scholarship Application Deadline:July 15, 2011

Further Scholarship Information and Application

PhD in Quantitative Mass Spectrometry by LC-ESI-IT-MS, IGSM, Germany

Signal strength in mass spectrometry strongly depends on the chemistry and size of analytes and can therefore not simply be used for quantification. In the field of polysaccharide derivatives, e.g. cellulose ethers, the molar composition of complex oligomeric mixtures obtained by partial depolymerization of the polymer, need to be analyzed. Accuracy of quantitative data is of high importance for pattern evaluation of these chemically modified biopolymers.

In Electrospray Ionization (ESI), surface activity and electrophoretic mobility of analytes, solvent and solvation energy, play an important role for relative ion yields of the components of a mixture. In addition, instrumental parameters as skimmer voltages and target mass influence the ion current. Coupling of the MS to Liquid chromatrography (LC) can mitigate effects of competition of analytes, and allow to optimize individual measurement conditions. Aim of the project is to study and quantify the factors of influence. Therefore, defined oligosaccharide derivatives shall be synthesized as model compounds and their behavior be studied.

The Braunschweig IGSM aims at increasing the number of women in scientific positions. Female candidates are therefore particularly encouraged to apply.
You are required to hold an excellent university degree (master’s or equivalent degree) in physics, chemistry, electrical or mechanical engineering, mathematics, information technology or related fields. Please note that the entire program is run in English, so fluency in both written and spoken English is required. Skills in German are welcome.
You may be a member of the IGSM for up to 3 years. In your first semester, you will be accepted on a probationary basis.

Scholarship Application Deadline: 31 March 2011

Further Scholarship Information and Application