Uppsala universitet, Institutionen för teknikvetenskaper

The PhD position is at the Division of Nanotechnology and Functional Materials at the Department of Engineering Sciences, Ångström Laboratory. The research within the division focuses on the development and investigation of nanostructured materials for use in diverse applications ranging from medical devices to energy storage. The multidisciplinary research profile of the group makes it possible to cover a wide range of nanomaterial science aspects from synthesis and characterization of novel materials to biocompatibility and toxicity studies.

One of the research areas of the division deals with the development of nanomaterials with improved biocompatibility towards biomedical applications. Since biological systems present properties guided in the nanometer scale, the potential of nanomaterials in biomedical sciences represents an exciting field with endless opportunities of obtaining novel biomaterials with improved biocompatibility.

For further information, see http://www.teknik.uu.se/nanoteknologi-och-funktionella-material/

Project description: Nanocellulose is a nanomaterial that has gained increased attention for industrial, biotechnological and biomedical applications in the last decade. Characteristics such as being a renewable material; not being of animal origin; having tunable properties in terms of surface chemistry, aspect ratio and form (e.g. gels, films, aerogels); being easily scaled-up industrially; and being associated with relatively low production costs have contributed to the increased interest in using wood-derived nanocellulose for biomedical applications.

The interdisciplinary project NanoCellSense aims at creating a scientific foundation for the development of a new generation of nanocellulose-based therapeutic delivery platforms. The project is carried out in collaboration with researchers and clinicians at Uppsala University, and RISE Bioeconomy, a world´s leading institute in the field of forestry products.

The focus of this PhD project is to develop a sense and release nanocellulose platform for wound healing, bioactive molecules. Moreover, the potential of using the platform for cell therapy will also be investigated.

Duties: The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

The project´s tasks include synthesis of crosslinked nanocellulose-based hydrogels capable of responding to specific stimulus and release bioactive molecules. The research activities also include physicochemical characterization of the materials as well as in vitro studies to investigate the ability of the hydrogels to provide a matrix for cell therapy in chronic wound treatment.

Admission requirements: A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programs if he or she:

  • has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
  • has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
  • has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.  

Requirements:

  • Degree or equivalent as above in chemistry, engineering, biotechnology or materials science
  • Specializations within biomaterials and nanomaterials are considered strong merits
  • Very good oral and written proficiency in English
  • Strong motivation and ability to work independently as well as in a team
  • Knowledge and documented experience in cell culturing, chemical modification and characterization of biopolymers and synthesis and characterization of smart/responsive hydrogels are strong advantages.

Application: Please use the link below. The application should include a cover letter with a description of research interests and previous research experience, a CV, copies of diplomas, certificates, master thesis (or a draft thereof) and other relevant documents. We encourage you to include details of references and/or attach letters of recommendation.

Rules governing PhD candidates are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University's rules and guidelines http://regler.uu.se/search/?hits=30&languageId=1&search-language_en=English

Uppsala University strives to be an inclusive workplace that promotes equal opportunities and attracts qualified candidates who can contribute to the University’s excellence and diversity. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and from people of all backgrounds.

Salary: According to local agreement for PhD students and teaching assistants.
 
Starting date: March 2019 as agreed upon.

Type of position: Full time position, four years.

For further information about the position please contact Ass. Prof. Natalia Ferraz, phone +46 (18) 4713073, email: natalia.ferraz@angström.uu.se

Please submit your application by 18 January 2019, UFV-PA 2018/4539.

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? If so, you will find a lot of information about working and living in Sweden at www.uu.se/joinus. You are also welcome to contact International Faculty and Staff Services at ifss@uadm.uu.se.

Type of employment Temporary position
Contract type Full time
First day of employment mars 2019
Salary Fixed salary
Number of positions 1
Full-time equivalent 100 %
City Uppsala
County Uppsala län
Country Sweden
Reference number UFV-PA 2018/4539
Union representative
  • Per Sundman, Saco-rådet, 018-471 1485
  • Suzanne Borén Andersson, TCO/ST, 018-471 6251
  • Ellena Papaioannou, Seko, 018-471 3315
Published 13.Dec.2018
Last application date 18.Jan.2019 11:59 PM CET

Return to job vacancies