Doctoral student in Polymer Technology - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Work duties
The doctoral student project is focused on organic synthesis and studies of ion conducting polymers and electrolyte membranes. These materials are especially important in tomorrow’s energy system with fuel cells and water electrolyzers based on hydrogen as a renewable energy carrier. The main goal is to develop new synthetic strategies and knowledge how these materials should be molecularly designed in order to efficiently conduct ions in electrochemical systems for energy storage and conversion. The experimental work consist of organic synthesis, molecular characterization and polymerization of new monomers, polymer characterization, preparation of functional membranes, as well as analysis of electrochemical, mechanical and thermal properties with a focus on thermochemical stability and ionic conductivity. The project is carried out in collaboration with Swedish universities and automotive industry.

The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties will also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

Admission requirements
A candidate meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if he or she:

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

Additional requirements:

• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.

Assessment criteria
Selection for third-cycle studies is based on the student’s potential to profit from such studies. The assessment of potential is made primarily on the basis of academic results from the first and second cycle. Special attention is paid to the following:

1. Knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project and the subject of study.
2. An assessment of ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems.
3. Written and oral communication skills
4. Other experience relevant to the third-cycle studies, e.g. professional experience. 

Other assessment criteria     

• MSc degree in chemistry with a specialization in organic
  or polymer chemistry on the Master level.
• Previous experience with organic synthesis and characterization of monomers and/or polymers, especially ionic polymers and polycondensation, are merits.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicants, through their experience and skills, are deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programme.

Terms of employment
Only those admitted to third cycle studies may be appointed to a doctoral studentship. Third cycle studies at LTH consist of full-time studies for 4 years. A doctoral studentship is a fixed-term employment of a maximum of 5 years (including 20% departmental duties). Doctoral studentships are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance (1998:80).

Instructions on how to apply
Applications shall be written in English and include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position, and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background. The application must also contain a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, at least 2 letters of recommendation, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, etc.).