A 3-year PhD position is available in the physical and theoretical chemistry group of Assoc. Prof. Gianluca Levi at the University of Trieste, Italy. The position is funded for three years by the ERC Starting Grant NEXUS – New excited state methods for overcoming challenges in sunlight conversion.
Project description
The successful candidate will develop and apply efficient methodologies for calculating excited electronic states and simulating the photoinduced dynamics of molecules in condensed phase, building on recent advancements in variational density functional methods for excited states and multiscale molecular dynamics approaches. The methodology will be implemented in open-source software packages, including GPAW and ASE, and applied to simulations of photoactive molecules and condensed-phase systems relevant to solar energy conversion, such as next-generation molecular motors and singlet fission systems for dye-sensitized solar cells. Possible applications also include photoinduced processes in molecular clusters relevant to astrochemistry. A goal will be to assist the interpretation of ultrafast experiments performed at synchrotrons and X-ray free electron laser facilities.
Research environment
The selected candidate will join a dynamic and collaborative research environment at the forefront of the development of methods for atomic-scale modelling. The group has international collaborations with both theoretical and experimental groups, including in Iceland, Denmark, and The Netherlands.
Position details
Start date: November 1, 2026
Duration: 3 years
Location: University of Trieste, Italy
Annual scholarship: €20,424 (PhD scholarships in Italy are subject to a low taxation of ~10%)
The scholarship is higher than the standard Italian PhD scholarship of €16,243. Additional funding is available for attending conferences and research visits.
Candidate profile
We seek outstanding and motivated candidates with the ability to work both independently and in a team. Candidates must hold, or be about to obtain, a Master’s degree in Chemistry or Physics and have above-average grades.
Expression of interest
Interested applicants are encouraged to submit an expression of interest before May 10, 2026.
The expression of interest should include the following documents:
- cover letter, maximum one page;
- grade transcripts;
- CV, including list of publications if any;
- list of two academic references who can provide letters of recommendation, including their contact details and affiliations.
Contact
For questions, please contact: gianluca.levi@units.it