Luleå University of Technology experiences rapid growth with world-leading expertise within several research domains. We shape the future through innovative education and groundbreaking research results and drawing on our location in the Arctic region, we create global societal benefit. Our scientific and artistic research and education are carried out in close collaboration with international, national and regional companies, public actors and leading universities. Luleå University of Technology has an annual turnover of SEK 1.9 billion. Today, we have 1,815 staff and 19,155 students.
In the coming years, multi-billion investments will be made in large projects in Northern Sweden to create a fossil-free society both nationally and globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these cutting-edge research projects and in the societal transformation that they entail. We offer a broad range of courses and study programmes to match the skills in demand. We hope that you will help us to build the sustainable companies and societies of the future.
The Division of Materials Science at Luleå University of Technology has PhD-student positions available for research on sustainable processing of bio-based material for composites and biocarbon based energy storage applications. We have demonstrated that bio-based novel nanomaterials such as cellulose nanofibers and graphitic biocarbon has a great potential to be used in composite materials and in future energy storage applications such as electrodes for batteries. However, we know that the raw material source can influence the final properties as well as material processing and these need to be developed and better understood.
Subject description
Wood and Bionanocomposites covers the development of energy-efficient manufacturing processes of eco-friendly composite materials and products based on various biofibers in nano- and micrometer scale.
More information about the subject is found here.
Project description
We want to expand our successful work in the field of biobased nanomaterials and increase their fundamental understanding. This is done by development of materials processing, including nanocellulose, biocomposites, and biocarbon. Advanced characterization techniques such as microscopy (SEM, TEM, AFM), mechanical testing, thermal-, electrochemical properties, are used to study the material structure and properties.
The announced PhD-projects are funded by Bio4Energy, a Swedish National Program for which is also offering a great network for collaboration. We can offer well-equipped laboratory facilities for performing research and good academic network in Sweden and abroad.
Duties
As a PhD student you are expected to perform both experimental and theoretical work within the research studies as well as communicate your results in scientific journals and at national and international conferences. As a PhD student, you will have a fantastic opportunity to be involved in challenging development projects and create experiences and skills in the field of biomaterials, their production processes, and properties. In this project we have two subjects, one is development of sustainable biocomposites and the other is biocarbon and its use in as electrode material.
Qualifications
To be eligible for employment you must have an MSc degree in materials science, composite materials, materials chemistry, polymer engineering, polymer chemistry or an equivalent degree.
The project is experimental in nature and experience in some of the following methodologies is highly desirable:
– Processing: compounding extrusion, processing of cellulose, electrospinning, ice-templating of aerogels.
– Analysis techniques: x-ray analysis, different microscopy techniques (scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy), mechanical testing including analysing results, and electrochemical testing are an advantage.
Great interest for biobased nanomaterials and their characterisation is of importance.
We are looking for highly motivated and enthusiastic candidates, capable of conducting state-of-the-art research and who can work independently as well as in teams. The candidate must have good oral and written communication skills and be fluent in English.
For the evaluation of candidates, special emphasis is put on the following:
– Knowledge and skills relevant for the project
– Quality of MSc thesis
– Personal skills relevant for research
For further information about a specific subject see General syllabus for the Board of the faculty of science and technology.
Further information
Fulltime fixed-term employment for four years. Departmental duties (such as teaching) up to maximum 20 % of fulltime studies may be added. Location is Luleå, Sweden.
For further information, please contact Professor Kristiina Oksman, +46 920-49 3371 or +46 70 358 53 71, kristiina.oksman@ltu.se
Union representatives:SACO-S Kjell Johansson +(0)920-49 1529 kjell.johansson@ltu.se, OFR-S Lars Frisk, (+46)920-49 1792 lars.frisk@ltu.se
In case of different interpretations of the English and Swedish versions of this announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.
Application
We prefer that you apply for this position by clicking on the apply button below. The application should include a CV, personal letter and copies of verified diplomas from high school and universities. Your application, including diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish. Mark your application with the reference number below.
Closing date for applications: July 30, 2022
Reference number: 2660-2022
URL to this pagehttps://www.ltu.se/ltu/Lediga-jobb?l=en&rmpage=job&rmjob=5939&rmlang=UK