Postdoctoral position in polymer technology focused on green polymer chemistry subject

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, Faculty of Engineering. We are a highly international unit and strive to maintain an efficient and friendly work environment.

Research at CAS covers a broad range of chemistry and materials-related topics, with a particular focus on sustainability-oriented development, including for instance molecular design and chemical synthesis, organic and inorganic material synthesis and characterization, as well as chemical and structure and morphology analysis.

This position particularly fits well into our long-term ambition to contribute to solving the various environmental challenges caused by the wide use of plastics. You can read more about our relevant research from a recently completed project “STEPS”: https://www.steps-mistra.se/

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 focused on the synthesis of new bio-based monomers and polymers using building blocks from biomass resources, in particular those derived from seaweed, characterization of the structure and properties of these new polymer materials, as well as their application potential. The main objective is to develop new synthesis strategies and new knowledge on how these bio-based polymers should be molecularly tailored to meet the requirements of target applications in order to phase out plastics from fossil raw materials. 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 carried out in collaboration with companies and institutes within the framework of a Formas-funded research program. Departmental work in the form of, e.g., maintenance of instruments and teaching at undergraduate courses will also be included in the employment.

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 for further development.

Detailed work duties include:

• Research within the project
• Collaboration with academic and industrial 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 synthesis of monomers and polymers, as well as
• Experience in practically preparing and characterizing complex polymer structures, especially condensation polymerization, is a merit.

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. https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/about-university/work-lund-university

Further information

This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of two 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!