A PhD student (licentiate) in chemical engineering - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The research group in Organic Chemistry focuses on green catalysis and in particular the field of organic catalysis. This licentiate project combines sustainable engineering, green chemistry and eco-friendly catalysis for changing the properties of cellulosic fibers and wood so that they can compete and even replace fossil-based materials. The project relies on the combination of state-of-the-art catalysis, with high pressure treatment and green chemistry and is expected to lead to the next generation of wood-based and cellulosic materials. The project will be based on design of eco-friendly formulations for treatment of wood and cellulosic fibers. Next, the treated cellulosic materials will undergo high pressure treatment and extensive analysis. The formulations are water-based and can be used to change the surface properties of the cellulose (e.g., hydrophobicity, electron conducting, strength and fire-resistance). The green chemistry and the design of the formulations is key and requires expertise in catalysis, green chemistry and engineering. The collaboration between the chemical engineering groups at the FSCN Research Centre will be key in designing formulations and new cellulosic materials with tailor-made properties.

Job description
Graduate studies including (80–100%) research and teaching as well as (0–20%) administrative work. Two years of the research project are carried out in Sundsvall, and at the end of this period the candidate is expected to complete a Licentiate of Technology degree in Chemical Engineering.

Requirements and assessment
To be considered for a doctoral position, the applicant must meet the entry requirements for admission to Mid Sweden University´s third-cycle programme. In order to meet the entry requirements, the applicant must have a second-cycle degree, or have completed at least 240 ETCS credits of which at least 60 credits should be second-cycle courses. An additional requirement is that 90 credits of the 240 total must consist of courses in chemistry/chemical engineering or closely related subjects. The applicant is also eligible for consideration if s/he has acquired the corresponding knowledge in some other way.

Final selection will also be based on other work (such as thesis work) courses, and interviews with applicants. Previous experience with and good knowledge of chemical pulping, wood fibers, and wood-chemistry, as well as characterization methods such as FTIR, NIRS, and SEM are considered particularly meritorious.

Personal characteristics
Personal qualities such as cooperation skills, initiative and suitability for doctoral studies will be weighed against the formal subject knowledge. A brief description of the applicant's visions and goals must be included in the application.

Other assessment grounds
Applicants must have a good ability to express themselves verbally and in writing in English.

Employment process
The employment process follows the forms specified in Chapter 5 of the Higher Education Ordinance and the Employment Procedures of Mid Sweden University.

Terms of employment
The doctoral position refers to a full-time position that corresponds to two years of full-time studies and is expected to lead to a licentiate degree.

A new position as a doctoral student is initially valid for a maximum of one year, and the position may then be renewed for a maximum of two years at a time. Provisions concerning employment as a doctoral student are contained in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), Chapter 5, Sections 1-7.

Place of employment: Sundsvall

Entry: February 1, 2024 or according to agreement.

Salary: According to the Mid Sweden University salary scale for PhD students.

Information
For further information please contact vice-head of department, Associate professor Birgitta Engberg, birgitta.engberg@miun.se or Professor Armando Cordova, armando.cordova@miun.se. More information about ongoing research and the research groups can also be found on FSCN’s homepage www.miun.se/fscn.  

Application
The application should include a verified CV, copies of official transcripts and degree certificates, description of objectives according to the above as well as other documents the applicant would like to refer to.

Please welcome to apply through our recruitment tool no later than December 31, 2023.