PhD in Northern European Universities after a 2yr hiatus

I am a student of Applied Materials Physics. I obtained my Master's degree from KTH (Jan2013). I have a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering. I wish to obtain a PhD in a group that works with nanostructured materials and magnetism. I would prefer to be in northern European country (SWE, NOR, DNK, NLD, FIN, & maybe DEU).

Given my hiatus, how pragmatic is my goal? Is it even achievable?

Is there anything i should do or be careful about? How should i go about my application?

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DETAILS: In India now, i have been mostly teaching (Physics) for the last two years (presently in a school that is ranked 3rd. in the country). I did a short (6mnth) stint at NCBS - a research entity, doing science outreach and science writing.

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More Details:

I do not have a publication, and my GPA is a non-spectacular 3.04/4. I had a tough time (financial trouble) during my master studies, and upon completion had to return due to familial circumstances and start work immediately. I (still) have a heavy Student Loan and this preempts any Indian academic opportunity (extremely poor stipends) - forcing me to teach, which fortunately is rewarding in more ways than one.

Having stabilized the home front, i wish to return to academia. I have a love for experimental work, and am deeply passionate about science - i.e. even when i understand remuneration woes, and the fickle nature sof the job-market. I wish to pursue science for its sake, and not for tenure alone.

I recognize that this (or any such passion) isn't sufficient; i however wish to explore|attempt with an understanding of how realistic my ambition is.

Also, i wish to state that most employers will know the improbability of a publication in amorphous and nanocrystalline materials within a Master Thesis period (this may depend on specific groups, their research scope, or i could be entirely wrong in asserting this). I say so because of the people who, directly from the same Group i worked with, were able to get into exceptionally good doctoral positions immediately after their thesis (when they chose to do so).

Plus, you'll forgive my claim - but i have a good Thesis - well presented, well researched. Before i made the call to head back home, i secured an interview with Aalborg (PVD work) - but was rejected later, as the project was quite distant from my training.

Even as a teacher now, i have been the Physics contact/in-charge in a major collaboration with Science Gallery and TCD. I am actively involved in assisting students with their academic aspirations in Physics - e.g. training them for the Oxford PAT, etc. While i enjoy this, there is nothing i miss more than academic work.

I thank you for your time.

Kindly excuse the verbose question.

I will be grateful to receive an even more detailed answer. Be harsh if you must, but kindly advise.