Advanced semiconductor materials within Material 4.0 Sweden
Within the research area Material 4.0 Sweden, the Lund and Chalmers alliance for advanced semiconductors and intelligent materials, researchers at the Department of Physics contribute to the development of new semiconductor materials and components for future electronics. The initiative is led by Lars‑Erik Wernersson, Professor of Nanoelectronics. The proposed funding amounts to SEK 7.4 million for 2027 and SEK 15.1 million for 2028.
At the Department of Physics, one of the senior researchers involved in this new research area is Rainer Timm, Professor at the Division of Synchrotron Radiation Physics. The research includes, among other things, the development of semiconductors with ultra‑wide bandgaps, enabling fast and energy‑efficient power electronics, as well as increased use of AI‑driven methods for materials development.
A central component of the research area is advanced characterisation of new materials and components at MAX IV. Here, researchers at the Department of Physics play a leading role in both the use and the methodological development of X‑ray‑based characterisation techniques.
"This research area enables us to connect materials development, AI and advanced characterisation in a way that is essential for the next generation of sustainable materials", says Rainer Timm.
Quantum technology as an established
strength at the Department of Physics
The Department of Physics also contributes to the Chalmers‑led strategic research area in Quantum Technology, in which KTH is also a partner. Lund University’s share of the funding amounts broadly to approximately SEK 9 million in 2027, followed by approximately SEK 18 million per year from 2028 onwards.
The Department of Physics has long hosted a broad and internationally visible research environment in quantum technology. The research spans from fundamental quantum physics to applications in future quantum technologies.
The activities include, among other areas, ultrafast quantum physics, quantum technology with rare‑earth atoms, quantum states in nanosystems, quantum information theory, ultracold atomic gases, quantum materials for quantum technology and time‑dependent quantum processes.
"The strategic research area creates better conditions for long‑term and groundbreaking research and makes it possible to further strengthen the quantum technology environment at the Department of Physics", says Peter Samuelsson, Professor at the Division of Mathematical Physics.
The initiative is also expected to create scope for new recruitments. This will further strengthen Lund University’s position in quantum technology.
Decision: Strategic Research Areas – vr.se
The Division of Synchrotron Radiation Physics’ website.