Postdoc in Melt processability of modified cellulose - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology is looking for a postdoctoral researcher for research within a Treesearch (www.treesearch.se) project. Within the project, the postdoctoral researcher will also work very closely with Chalmers University of Technology, Department of Industrial and Materials Science. In addition, there are also two industrial partners: Tetra Pak and BillerudKorsnäs.

Job description

Native cellulose cannot be melt processed, which to a large extent hinders it from replacing petroleum-based polymers in complex-shaped parts. However, recent research in our laboratory has shown that after adequate chemical modification of cellulosic fibres, they can in fact be processed in conventional melt-processing equipment such as an extruder.

The task of the successful candidate will be to further explore and develop this novel material by establishing proper relationships between the chemical modification and the change of fibre properties and structure, rheological properties and processability. The starting material as well as the melt-processed material will be carefully characterised not only in terms of viscoelastic behaviour and mechanical properties, but also when applicable by state-of-the art equipment such as AFM, IR-microscopy, SEM and x-ray diffraction and tomography techniques. With the joint facilities of KTH and Chalmers, and the industry partners, the project will have access to all equipment needed for a successful project.

Qualifications

We are looking for you who:

• Have good academic records.
• Have a PhD degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, polymer chemistry, polymer engineering, physics, materials science, or similar. Regardless of PhD degree, basic chemistry knowledge will be required. Good surface, organic or cellulose chemistry skills are definitively advantageous.
• Have experience of working with polymer processing, including melt rheology.
• Have experience in using and analysing data from laboratory equipment such as extruders, rheometers, tensile testers and one or several of the following characterisation techniques: AFM, SEM, TEM, FTIR, XRD.
• Are fluent in English, not only for academic writing but also for oral communication.
• Are willing to significant spend time at both KTH and Chalmers and thereby take active part in two international research groups.

Furthermore, it will be considered an advantage if you have additional knowledge and experience of the processing of relevant biopolymers and/or (bio)fibres, wood-derived fibres in particular, and is familiar with their chemistry.

As a person you are self-motivated and persistent. You have the ability to work hard and spend time, energy and commitment to your work. You remain focused on your goal and work. You take great responsibility in your work and we find it important that you follow the quality standards required for your work and ensures nothing is left to chance. You will basically be part of two research groups (KTH and Chalmers) and you are expected to build contacts, both within and outside these groups, so it is important that you are good at communicating and building relationships. We will place great emphasis on personal qualities.

Trade union representatives

You will find contact information to trade union representatives at KTH's webbpage.

Application

Log into KTH's recruitment system in order to apply to this position. You are the main responsible to ensure that your application is complete according to the ad.

Your complete application must be received at KTH no later than the last day of application, midnight CET/CEST (Central European Time/Central European Summer Time).

The application must include the following documents:

• Curriculum vitae, with at least two references (maximum two pages),
• Statement of professional interest (maximum one page),
• Transcripts (BSc, MSc, PhD) from university/universities, showing that you are eligible for a postdoctoral position,
• Example of technical writing, e.g., thesis or scientific paper.

Others

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Disclaimer: In case of discrepancy between the Swedish original and the English translation of the job announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.