Doctoral student in polymer technology with a focus on green polymer chemistry

Description of the workplace

Within the Center for Analysis and Synthesis (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 connected to Professor Patric Jannasch's research group (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

The transition from today's fossil-based plastics to tomorrow's bio-based materials from renewable resources means a major research challenge for the future. This doctoral project is aimed at synthesis of new monomers and polymers from renewable resources, as well as characterization of structure and material properties of bio-based polymers. The main goal is to develop new synthesis strategies and knowledge about how, for example, different bio-based polyesters and polyacrylates 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 of monomers originating from lignocellulose via the principles of green chemistry, development of polymerization methods, preparation of new polymeric materials, analysis of mechanical and thermal properties, as well as processability and recyclability. The project is partly carried out in collaboration with industry and international partners. The position will involve a limited number of travels to participate in 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.

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 bio-based polymers and polymer materials

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!