Post-doc on combined in-situ X-ray diffraction and X-ray absorption spectroscopy - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The collaborative project XRD@Balder between Balder and Chalmers University, Göteborg, is aiming to develop and implement (in-situ) X-ray diffraction capabilities simultaneously with X-ray spectroscopy in one experimental setup with sub-second time resolution. This project is framed in the exploration of new catalytic materials, their molecular function and ways to use them for environmental protection and chemical production without putting planetary boundaries for sustainability at risk.

New catalytic materials -as synthesized at Chalmers University- will be studied with in-operando combined spectroscopic and scattering methods in controlled environments. While X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) reveals information about the chemical and electronic structure of the catalyst, simultaneously performed X-ray diffraction (XRD) will be used to investigate structural changes during catalytic reactions. Inherently combining XAS and XRD will further enable site selective investigations of the active catalytic site of the material.

We are now looking for a post doctoral researcher for the development of a new in-situ setup and data acquisition scheme for simultaneous XAS and XRD, as well as for its application to real-time in-situ investigations. Jointly with catalysis experts from Chalmers University, the successful candidate will develop and conduct combined XAS/XRD experiments on catalysis samples to get an insight into the evolution of structural properties in correlation to the chemical state of the catalyst. She/he will further optimize the setup in terms of real-time time-resolution to enable investigations of quick processes with sub-second time-resolution.

The postdoc will be required to collaborate with the project team and support groups at MAX IV and Chalmers to achieve the pre-defined goals. She/he will frequently take part and present their project work at both internal and external meetings. The postdoc will be responsible for the ongoing dissemination of project outcomes to potential user groups within Sweden and further afield.

We offer...

...a focused project within the cutting edge field of real-time in-situ material research at one of the most advanced synchrotrons. The applicant will work on an inter-disciplinary project together with experts in the fields of in-situ X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and catalysis material research. There is a high potential for high impact publication of project results and research career development.

Qualifications:

• The appointment to a post-doctoral position requires that the applicant has a PhD, or an international degree deemed equivalent to a PhD, within the subjects of physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering or a related discipline, completed no more than three years before the last date for Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.
• The applicant should have a profound knowledge of X-ray diffraction (preferably synchrotron-based) and/or hard X-ray spectroscopy, which should be demonstrated within their scientific publications.
• She/he should preferably have specific experience of the set-up, data reduction and evaluation of (synchrotron-based) X-ray diffraction experiments.
• She/he should have a demonstrated ability to work independently. An excellent command of spoken and written English, well-developed communication skills and team working skills are required.

Additional requirements:

The project will require multi- and interdisciplinary collaborations within MAX IV and Chalmers. Thus, interest in working in a multi-disciplinary area of research will be required.

The following qualifications are considered an asset:

• Experience with 2D X-ray diffraction
• Experience with real-time in-situ studies
• Experience with anomalous scattering or diffraction anomalous fine structure (DAFS)
• Experience in catalysis material research
• Experience in the operation of a beamline on a user level
• Background in programming of data handling and reduction, preferably Python
• Background in designing and building and commissioning of novel equipment
• Experience in CAD-based design

The work may involve irregular working hours and travel from time to time.

This is a 2 year employment.