Following the global winter campaign to find Chalmers' new Assistant Professors, the recruitment process is now complete, and agreements are in place.
In February 2024, Chalmers announced seventeen strategic Assistant Professor positions with tenure track. The announcements were made at the institutional level, focusing on attracting top talents within broadly described areas. This is the sixth time such recruitment has been conducted, and the initiative has previously contributed to the hiring of very talented researchers, strengthening Chalmers' faculty.
In this round, approximately 1,250 applications were received in total. After extensive evaluation work and interviews, in which many Chalmers employees participated, 19 new Assistant Professors will finally start their positions in 2025, unless they have already started in late autumn 2024. Four of them have done their doctoral studies or had research positions at Chalmers, and 15 are international recruitments.
Anders Palmqvist, Vice President for Research and sustainable development, is pleased with the recruitment process.
"It is fantastic that there is such great interest in Chalmers and that we receive such strong candidates in the search fields. We are also pleased that the group of new Assistant Professors has a balanced gender distribution and broad geographical spread".
"I am very grateful for the hard work and enthusiasm that everyone involved in the process has contributed with and now look forward to meeting our new colleagues”
The recruitment is unique in that it is driven by cross-departmental groups and involves expertise from many different areas. This time, the announcements covered all seven Areas of Advance (Energy, Information and Communication Technology, Health and Technology, Materials Science, Nano, Production, and Transport), the thematic areas (Space, Ocean, and Land), as well as seven positions within Basic Sciences.
Based on experiences from previous recruitment rounds, the process used in this year's recruitment round has been partially updated and, according to Susanne Aalto, Deputy President for Academic Environment and Excellence, has worked very well. Feedback from this round will contribute to further refinement for future recruitments.
"It is inspiring that we manage to attract these top talents who, together with us, bring Chalmers one step closer to the goal of becoming a world-leading technical university. We also see that we are simultaneously strengthening both gender equality and excellence with these recruitments," says Susanne Aalto.
Anna Gautier, ICT Area of Advance and Department of Computer Science and Engineering
PhD from the University of Oxford, Digital Futures Postdoctoral Fellow at KTH
“My research focuses on high-level planning and decision making under uncertainty in multi-agent systems. I study how AIs interact through the lens of game theory and mechanism design, with the goal of formally analysing risk, safety and reliability.”
“I chose to join Chalmers because of the diverse and welcoming research environment in the department, and because of the exciting and fast-growing landscape of AI research in Sweden. “
Anton Persson, ICT Area of Advance and Department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience
Postdoctoral researcher, Department of Electrical Engineering, Stanford University
“My research focuses on integrating novel nanomaterials to develop scalable, energy-efficient electronics. I investigate transistors based on 2D materials for logic applications and III-V materials for high-frequency applications, as well as explore new data storage and neuromorphic computing concepts using ferroelectric materials. Ultimately, my work aims to enable the next-generation electronic devices for future AI and communication technologies.”
“Chalmers offers an ideal environment for my research with its internationally recognized expertise in advanced device technologies, state-of-the-art nanofabrication facilities, and strong materials characterization capabilities. Its research tradition within both 2D and III-V electronics aligns well with my profile.”
Armi Tiihonen, Materials Area of Advance and Department of Industrial and Materials Science
MSCA postdoctoral researcher, Aalto University, Finland
“My current work focuses on the accelerated research of photovoltaic materials, particularly on the long-term stability of perovskites. I use a combination of materials science experiments, machine learning approaches, and laboratory automation to explore new compositions and understand their degradation. At the same time, the work advances the methodology in the field”.
“I am impressed by the multidisciplinary work on sustainability done at Chalmers, as well as the friendly and energetic atmosphere on campus during my visit. Having completed an engineering degree myself, I am also glad to join an engineering school.”
Camille Pauzon, Thematic area Space and Department of Industrial and Materials Science
PhD in Materials Science. Marie Curie postdoctoral fellowship, SIMaP laboratory, Grenoble.
“My research is focused on making Additive Manufacturing (AM) a competitive manufacturing route for various space applications in terms of productivity and sustainability. The technology is particularly attractive to this industry, which is facing increasing pressure to reduce costs, boost innovation and accelerate commercialisation.”
“I choose to (re-)join Chalmers and the Space Thematic Area because of its commitment to research excellence and innovation. My ambition is to contribute to the adoption of AM technologies in the Space landscape through research and making them a robust manufacturing route.“
Chiara Micheletti, Health Engineering Area of Advance and Department of Physics
Humboldt postdoctoral fellow at the Max Planck Institute, Potsdam, Germany. PhD student in a cotutelle program between Sahlgrenska Academy and McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada)
“My main research interests revolve around structure-function relationships in bone, namely understanding the interplay between bone’s structure-composition and its mechanical-biological functioning. This encompasses both healthy and diseased bone, as well as bone-biomaterial interfaces. I aim to apply and advance characterisation tools typical of materials science to better answer biologically and clinically relevant questions, thereby bridging the engineering and health fields.”
“During my dual doctoral studies at the Sahlgrenska Academy I fell in love with Gothenburg. When I came across a job posting within the Health Engineering Area of Advance that felt applicable to my research interests, I immediately applied. The interview days gave me a good sense of the interdisciplinary and collaborative spirit at Chalmers, which is something I really value.”
Christoph Egger, Basic sciences and Department of Computer Science and Engineering
PhD from FAU Erlangen, Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellow at IRIF, Université Paris Cité.
“My research focuses on cryptography, where I explore foundational problems and techniques to enhance our understanding and methods in the field. Cryptography is closely related to complexity theory: we study how difficult it is for an attacker to break mathematical problems.”
“What drew me to Chalmers was the friendly and welcoming research group, along with excellent working conditions and my appreciation for northern Europe’s culture and lifestyle, making this an ideal place to continue my research.”
Ines Weber, Nano Area of Advance and Department of Life Sciences
Postdoctoral Researcher, Stanford University
“Non-invasive biomarker monitoring through breath, saliva, sweat, and interstitial skin fluid offers promising opportunities for disease diagnostics and personalized health management. Through systematic investigation of material-biomarker interactions and applying knowledge across chemo-resistive and electrochemical sensing, we develop portable and wearable devices for health monitoring.”
“Chalmers offers exceptional research infrastructure and a distinguished track record in nanoscience. Its collaborative and interdisciplinary environment creates ideal conditions for research and innovation. Most importantly, the academic culture at Chalmers − inclusive, diverse, open-minded, and friendly − fosters personal well-being through healthy work-life balance, leading to sustainable research and mentorship”.
Jiaming Wu, Transport Area of Advance and Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering
Former researcher at Architecture and Civil Engineering, Chalmers
“My research focuses on the modelling and optimization of urban transport systems. I am interested in exploring how innovative technologies, such as electric and autonomous vehicles, can help improve the efficiency and sustainability of urban mobility”.
“I chose to join Chalmers because it is a leading institution in transportation research, offering abundant opportunities to connect and collaborate with brilliant researchers. Since joining five years ago, I have been continually impressed by the enormous opportunities and the interdisciplinary approach the university fosters. I believe Chalmers is a place where young researchers are facilitated and encouraged to prosper”.
Joakim Halldin Stenlid, Energy Area of Advance and Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
Senior Technical Professional, NASA Ames Research Center – KBR Inc., United States of America
“I specialise in computational and physical chemistry, focusing on catalysis, electrochemistry, and battery materials. My research develops quantum chemical methods to understand the fundamentals of electrochemical reactions, enabling the design of materials for next-generation batteries and sustainable electrocatalytic production of platform chemicals from renewable feedstocks.”
“Chalmers offers a unique combination of exceptional talent, a world-class research environment, and strong connections to industry and society, which creates opportunities for both scientific excellence and real-world impact. Most importantly, I was inspired by the high-energy, collaborative, and collegial spirit of my future colleagues, which convinced me that this is an extraordinary place to build my career.”
Joanna Sobczyk, Basic sciences and Department of Physics
Researcher at Johannes Gutenberg University in Mainz, Germany
“My research is focused on electroweak nuclear physics and its interface with particle and astrophysics. The main current motivation for my work is long-baseline neutrino oscillation experiments. I am developing ab initio nuclear techniques to calculate the neutrino-nucleus cross-sections from first principles.”
"I sought out Chalmers because the university is a dynamic scientific environment that produces excellent students. Additionally, both work and life quality are high in Sweden."
Johanna Xu, Production Area of Advance and Department of Industrial and Materials Science
Former researcher, Division of Material and Computational Mechanics, Department of Industrial and Materials Science at Chalmers.
“My research focuses on the development and optimisation of structural batteries, an energy storage multifunctional composite material. This novel material combines the ability to store electrical energy with the mechanical strength needed for structural applications. A key aspect of my work is advancing scalable, robust manufacturing techniques for these composites, particularly to produce carbon fibre-based electrodes”.
“Chalmers’ commitment to sustainability and interdisciplinary research, especially through its Areas of Advance, is a major draw for me. The opportunity to establish my own independent line of research within a collaborative environment is invaluable for driving impactful research that aligns with my vision”.
Jon Bokrantz, Production Area of Advance and Department of Industrial and Materials Science
Former Research specialist, Department of Industrial and Materials Science
“My research focuses on production and operations management with a special emphasis on industrial maintenance. My research interests include the interplay of technology, people, and organisation, especially in the context of advancing and diffusing digital technologies to maximize operational performance. Currently, I am active in research for designing, developing, and scaling maintenance practices in lithium-ion battery production for electric vehicles.
“I am inspired by the new vision of Chalmers to develop into a globally outstanding university, and I feel pride in serving as a role model for the university in society. I see Chalmers as a unique platform for pursuing outstanding research at the absolute highest international level and developing next-generation engineering skills through world-class education. Simply put, I feel at home here.”
Linda Pipkorn, Transport Area of Advance and Department of Industrial and Material sciences
Former Postdoctoral Associate at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
“My research focuses on increasing the understanding of how humans are impacted by increased automation, with a particular focus on passenger vehicles. The goal is to develop quantitative models of human behaviour when interacting with automation, to inform design processes that prioritize the user's needs and safety, rather than ignoring them.”
“I chose to apply to Chalmers because Gothenburg and Sweden offer a strong research environment in vehicle-related studies, particularly within traffic safety. Additionally, it is a wonderful place to live and work, and I look forward to being close to my family and friends in Gothenburg.”
Maria Taljegård, Transport Area of Advance and Department of Space, Earth and Environment
Former researcher and head of unit at Energy Technology, Chalmers
“My research is focused on the electrification of the energy and transport system in Europe. In my research I do modelling studies of the electric grid and electricity system at different geographical levels, such as the local low voltage grid in Sweden to the north Europe electricity system. The main aim with my research is to analyse how electric vehicles (private cars, truck, buses) can be electrified in an efficient way.”
“At Chalmers I get the opportunity to be part of an amazing research group doing research that is utilised in society and in the forefront of the scientific research field. I have the conditions at Chalmers to grow here as a researcher, as a manager and as a person, as well as to build my own research team. I have also the possibility to use and expand my network.”
Shantanu Mishra, Basic sciences and Department of Physics
Postdoctoral researcher at IBM Research Europe – Zurich, Switzerland
"My research lies at the intersection of surface reactions, electronic properties of small molecular systems, and scanning tunnelling microscopy in vacuum at low temperatures. My research has two main focuses: combining fundamental design principles with the ability to control surface reactions to create magnetism in entirely organic molecules and characterizing these systems using scanning tunnelling microscopy, as well as developing and applying scanning tunnelling and atomic force microscopy as tools for a range of applications."
"I chose Chalmers because my research is interdisciplinary and relies on collaboration with researchers in fields that are strongly represented at Chalmers. The university in general, and the Department of Physics in particular, are also very supportive of my research needs in terms of instrumentation and associated infrastructure. I also got the impression that Chalmers is a fantastic employer in terms of benefits, assistance with planning the move to Sweden, and help with housing, and that Gothenburg and its surroundings are a wonderful place to live."
Simon L Rydin Myerson, Basic sciences and Department of Mathematical Sciences
Former WZL Assistant Professor, University of Warwick
“I study the solutions to equations and inequalities in whole numbers. These are called Diophantine problems and they’re part of number theory. I use “analytic” arguments which are often elementary, which makes it analytic number theory. I am interested in nonlinear dispersive partial differential equations (nonlinear dispersive PDEs). This is a type of mathematical model which describes physical systems, from ocean waves to fibre optic cables”.
“The department is an international centre for research in my field. Chalmers offers a great working environment and excellent support for career development and grant applications. I’m also greatly looking forward to the life of the city of Gothenburg”.
Sophie Frances Weber, Basic sciences and Department of Physics
Postdoctoral researcher in the Materials Theory group at ETH Zurich. PhD in Physics at the University of California, Berkeley.
“I use symmetry analysis and density functional theory (DFT) to understand, predict, and engineer functional phenomena at material surfaces and interfaces. Due to intrinsic symmetry-lowering at a surface, many useful properties which are constrained to vanish in bulk crystals can nevertheless emerge at their surfaces. A focus of my group at Chalmers will be to improve the theoretical and practical understanding of functional surface properties such as magnetism, piezoelectricity, transport, and topological surface states.”
“I was really attracted by how well the Physics department at Chalmers balances focus on fundamental research and practical applications. This makes for a great environment to do fundamental research while remaining cognisant of how it can tie into eventual practical applications. Related to that, I really like the mix of great theorists and experimentalists who are working at Chalmers. Finally, everyone I have spoken to has been incredibly friendly and gracious with their time, which is the most you can hope for in a work environment!"
Urban Wünsch, thematic area Ocean and Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering
Former Assistant Professor, Technical University of Denmark
“My research evolves around marine dissolved organic matter (DOM). This pool of organic substances is responsible for sequestering atmospheric carbon dioxide in the deep sea for millennia. My research highlights enzyme-, and sunlight-driven degradation as key pathways that affect the distribution of DOM in the marine environment. I also develop innovative optical sensors with novel applications”.
“Chalmers’ Ocean research area is an attractive opportunity to collaborate across campus to solve marine challenges and advance our understanding of the marine environment. At the department of Architecture and Civil Engineering, I am excited to collaborate across various water treatment sectors”.
Yizhou Yang, Basic sciences and Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
Former Assistant Professor at Linköping University
“My research is focused on a group of emerging topological materials, namely covalent organic frameworks (COFs). These are two-dimensional or three-dimensional macromolecules with a high degree of porosity. By combining chemistry and engineering strategies, I develop COFs with versatile built-in channels for the diffusion of particles, such as electrons, ions, molecules, photons, and more”
“My aspiration is to use my expertise to produce knowledge that facilitates technological advancement and eventually contribute to society and humankind. Chalmers has a well-developed research environment for materials science, and a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem for technology utilisation. I believe that this is the right place for me to pursue my aspiration. Moreover, I was pleased to find that Chalmers has a welcoming and supportive community through the communication during the recruitment interview.”