Doctoral student in polymer technology with a focus on polymer chemistry and ion-conducting membrane materials - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Description of the workplace

Within the Center for Analysis and Synthesis (please see link for more information https://www.cas.lu.se/) at the Department of Chemistry, we work on both fundamental applied research questions that can contribute to a more sustainable future. Our research focus is health, materials for energy applications, green chemistry and environmental chemistry. We have core competencies in molecular design and synthesis, synthesis of organic and inorganic materials, chemical analysis and structure and morphology analysis, both in solution and solid state. We teach in the core subjects of general, analytical, inorganic, materials, polymer and organic chemistry - from undergraduate to doctoral level.

The doctoral position is placed in Professor Patric Jannasch's research group (please see link for more information https://portal.research.lu.se/en/persons/patric-jannasch) which carries out research in the field of polymeric materials for energy and sustainability.

Work duties

Our future energy system requires efficient and environmentally friendly electrolyzers, fuel cells and batteries based on hydrogen as a renewable energy carrier. In these electrochemical systems, ion-conducting polymers and electrolyte membranes are central materials and components. This PhD project is focused on developing new concepts for ion-conducting polymer membranes and includes molecular design and synthesis of monomers and polymers, as well as studies of the next generation of membrane materials. The main goal is to develop new synthesis strategies and new knowledge on how to tailor polymers to effectively combine high ionic conductivity with chemical stability and mechanical strength. The focus is therefore on the synthesis of new materials and the experimental work includes organic synthesis of monomers, polymerizations, polymer characterization, production of ionic membrane materials, and analysis of electrochemical, mechanical and thermal properties. The project is carried out in collaboration with both national and international universities and research institutes. The position will involve a limited number of trips to participate in various meetings and research activities.

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 can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

Admission requirements

A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if the applicant:

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.

A person meets the specific admission requirements for third cycle studies in Polymer Technology if the applicant has passed the degree at the advanced level.

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:

• Desirable education is a master's degree in chemistry with a focus on organic chemistry or polymer chemistry at advanced level
• Practical experience with organic synthesis
• Practical experience with polymerizations and/or functionalization of polymers
• Experience with ionic polymers and membranes

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

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.

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 (1993:100), chapter 5, 1-7 §§.

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.).

Welcome to apply!