A PhD student (licentiate) in Chemistry

The research group in Surface and Colloid Engineering mainly conducts research on biopolymers in different materials applications. The objective of this project is to develop a novel methodology for preservative and sustainable impregnation of construction wood. The strategy is based on using microemulsions for penetration of porous structures and deposition of biologically active and sustainable wood preservation compounds. The superior properties of microemulsions are currently utilized in different industrial processes. Because of their amphiphilic composition, microemulsions can solubilize and transport water-insoluble substances, that in a later stage can be deposited inside the complex porous wood fiber matrix. Different microemulsion formulations and bioactive inclusion substances will be tested and evaluated from preservative and sustainable perspectives. The developed methodology could also be suitable for fiber-based barrier materials, which will be evaluated in the later stages of the project. 

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 degree in Chemistry.

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. 

Prior experience and knowledge in surface and colloid chemistry and in different soft matter characterization techniques will be creditable. 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 both Swedish and English. 

The 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. The entry date is 01-02-2025 or as agreed.

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

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

Informaition
For further information please contact vice-head of department, Associate professor Birgitta Engberg, birgitta.engberg@miun.se or Professor Håkan Edlund, hakan.edlund@miun.se.  More information about ongoing research and the research groups can also be found on FSCN’s homepage.

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 12, 2024.