Postdoctoral position in polymer and membrane chemistry for water electrolysis - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Description of the workplace

This position will be part of the research group for Polymer Technology within the Centre for Analysis and Synthesis (CAS) at the Department of Chemistry. We are a highly international unit and strive to maintain gender balance. Research at CAS focuses on inorganic, organic, polymer and materials synthesis, as well as advanced analysis and characterization techniques, with applications across such topics as photovoltaics, fuel cells, energy storage and catalysis. Read more about our research: Centre for Analysis and Synthesis.

Subject description

Polymer Technology at Lund University is an interdisciplinary subject including the chemistry and physics of polymers, as well as the processing and applications of polymer materials.

The post-doctoral position is linked to a research project focused on organic synthesis and studies of ion conducting polymers and electrolyte membranes. These materials are important for tomorrow’s energy system with fuel cells and water electrolyzer cells based on hydrogen as a renewable energy carrier. The main goal is to develop new synthetic strategies and knowledge how these materials can be molecularly designed for high chemical stability and efficient ion conductivity in alkaline membrane water electrolyzers for hydrogen production. The experimental work consists of organic synthesis, molecular characterization and polymerization of new monomers, post-polymerization modification, 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 within the framework of a European programme with collaboration between universities, research institutes and industry.

Work duties

The main duties involved in a post-doctoral position is to conduct research. Teaching may also be included, but up to no more than 20% of working hours. The position includes the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning. The purpose of the position is to develop the independence as a researcher and to create the opportunity of further development.

Detailed description of the work duties, such as:

• Research within the project
• Collaboration with academic partners
• Supervision of degree projects and doctoral students
• Limited administration related to the work duties listed above
• Limited responsibility for running some of the instruments of the group

Qualification requirements

Appointment to a post-doctoral position requires that the applicant has a PhD, or an international degree deemed equivalent to a PhD, within the subject of the position. The certificate proving the qualification requirement is met, must be received before the employment decision is made. Priority will be given to candidates who have graduated no more than three years ago before the last day for application. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.

Additional requirements:

• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Ph. D. degree in chemistry with a specialization towards polymer chemistry or similar.

Assessment criteria

This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers. Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

For appointments to a post-doctoral position, the following shall form the assessment criteria:

• A good ability to develop and conduct high quality research.
• Teaching skills.

Other qualifications:

Skills and previous experience with the syntesis of monomers and polymers (especially ionic polymers), as well as Practical experiences with flow battery and/or fuel cell membrane preparation and characterization are merits.

Consideration will also be given to how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

We offer
Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme.
Read more on the University website about being a Lund University employee Work at Lund University

Further information

This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of 2 years (state the exact period of employment between two and three years). The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow”).

How to apply

Applications shall be written in English. Please draw up the application in accordance with LTH’s Academic qualifications portfolio – see link below. Include two signed recommendation letters. Upload the application as PDF-files in the recruitment system. Read more: To apply for academic positions at LTH

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