Postdoctoral position in optical diagnostics in combustion applications - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Description of the workplace

At the Division of Combustion Physics, extensive activities are carried out with an emphasis on the development of laser-based measurement techniques for both basic studies and industrial applications within e.g. combustion processes, gasification, catalysis, production of nanometer structures, plasma and biology/medicine. Much of the research focuses on the transition to a sustainable transport and energy system. Within the scope of the unit's activities, there are extensive national and international collaborations with both academia and industrial partners. The activities are since 2001 housed in modern premises in the Enoch Thulin laboratory at the Department of Physics. Currently approximately 60 people work at the unit.

The current research group consists of 10 people who mainly do research on sustainable powertrains for air-, road- and sea-transport, as well as energy production. The advertised service forms part of an EU-funded project on future aviation.

Subject description

Aviation must change to become climate sustainable. An important track in this transformation is transition and adaptation to sustainable fuels (SAF). This work requires detailed studies of how the combustion systems respond to different types of fuels. Laser-based and optical measurement methods for 2D and 3D imaging are central to this work. The research work will be carried out in close collaboration with colleagues at the Department of Energy Sciences at LTH.

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.

The main topic of the research is studies of combustion systems in flying gas turbines with the aim of enabling a transition to sustainable fuels (SAF). You will be responsible for and perform advanced optical measurements in both atmospheric and pressurized combustion rigs. You are responsible for experimental planning and analysis of collected data. You will be a key person in the collaboration with external partners in the project. This includes coordination before new studies and reporting of produced results. You will be driving the implementation of experimental campaigns, which requires good practice in implementing optical diagnostics in applied environments. You will also act as assistant supervisor for doctoral students in related projects.

The work duties might include:

• Teaching in the first, second and third cycles of studies
• Supervision of degree projects and doctoral students
• Actively seeking external research funding
• Collaboration with industry and wider society
• Administration related to the work duties listed above

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.
• Knowledge of optical and laser-based measurement methods for diagnostics of fast processes in the gas phase.
• Experience with basic techniques such as laser-induced fluorescence, remote sensing of temperatures and optical measurements with high time resolution.
• You have a PhD with a focus that includes the above competencies.
• You have a good ability to work independently as well as in a group.
• You have an interest in and good ability to contribute to the development of colleagues and students.

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:

• Experience with measurement techniques that can generate results with 3D spatial resolution is a distinct advantage.
• Experience of applications of optical measurement methods for studies of gas turbine combustion is meritorious.
• Good ability to communicate research results is meritorious.

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 3 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 are to be submitted via the University’s recruitment system. The application should include a CV and a personal letter justifying your interest in the position and how it matches your qualifications. The application should also include a degree certificate or equivalent and any other document to which you would like to draw attention (copies of grade transcripts, details of referees, letters of recommendation, etc.)”  

Welcome to apply!