PhD student in cellulose mineralization

At the department of Engineering, Mathematics and Science Education, we conduct research and education in physics, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, mathematics, industrial design engineering and didactics in mathematics and science education. We offer unique and world-leading research within the FSCN Research Centre and Sports Tech Research Centre.

The research group in Surface and Colloid Engineering mainly conducts research on biopolymers in different materials applications. The objective of this doctoral student project is to investigate biopolymer-mineralization by using CO2 via a carbonation process to obtain inorganic-organic composite materials. The mineralization route could be suitable in the development of many of different technological materials, ranging from use as tissue-friendly scaffolds in biomedical applications to novel large-scale materials for the construction industry. The visionary outlook of the project includes investigations of how mineralization can be applied as an efficient process in carbon capture and storage, and thereby providing new technologies to decrease direct CO2 emissions to the atmosphere and mitigate global warming. Depending on the merits of the successful candidate, the project could involve both experimental and theoretical work.

Job description

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

Requirements and assessment

To be considered for a PhD 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.

The final selection will also be based on other work (such as thesis work) courses, and interviews with applicants.

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 four years of full-time studies and is expected to lead to a doctoral 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: September 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 Magnus Norgren, magnus.norgren@miun.se. More information about ongoing research and the research groups can also be found on FSCN’s homepage www.miun.se/fscn.  

Application

Application documents must be submitted in Swedish or English.

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 April 30, 2024.