Two doctoral students in polymer technology with focus on biobased polymers - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Subject description
Polymer Technology is an interdisciplinary subject including the chemistry and physics of polymers, polymers from renewable resources, processing and use of polymer materials, and degradation and environmental aspects of polymer materials. Polymer chemistry comprises polymerisations and characterisation of polymers, as well as chemical modifications of polymer materials. Polymer physics treats the properties of polymers in solutions, melts and solid states. Both synthetic polymers and biopolymers are included in the subject area. The research in Polymer Technology is both basic and applied, and primarily focused on studies of new structure-property relationships.

Work duties
The projects focus on the synthesis of new bio-based monomers and polymers using building blocks from renewable resources, as well as the characterization of the structure and properties of these materials. The main objective is to develop new synthesis strategies and new knowledge on how these bio-based polymers (mainly polyesters) should be molecularly tailored to meet the requirements of various industrial applications where plastics from fossil raw materials are currently used. The experimental work includes chemical synthesis and molecular characterization of monomers and polymers, preparation of new polymeric materials, and analysis of, for example, mechanical and thermal properties, as well as morphology and processability. The research is partly done in collaboration with companies and institutes within the framework of the National Mistra-funded research program “STEPS” (https://steps-mistra.se). Departmental work in the form of, e.g., maintenance of instruments and teaching at undergraduate courses will also be included in the employment.

The main task of a doctoral student is to devote to his/her postgraduate education, which includes both participation in research projects and postgraduate courses. The tasks also include participation in teaching and other institutional work, but at a maximum of 20% of the working time.

Admission requirements
A person 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 knowledge of English, in speech and writing.

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

• Desirable education is an MSc in chemistry with specialization in, e.g, polymer, material or organic chemistry including polymer chemistry at the advanced level.
• Experience in practically preparing and characterizing complex polymer structures, especially condensation polymerization of polyesters, is a merit.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through his or her experience and skills, is 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, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).