PhD in Nanotechnology with focus on synthesis, characterisation and application of cellulose-based carbon paper in energy storage and environmental applications - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The Division of Nanotechnology and Functional Materials is today part of the Department of Engineering Sciences. As of 2020-01-01 the Department of Engineering Sciences will be divided in three new departments. The Division of Nanotechnology and Functional Materials will belong to the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. 

Project description and work duties: Carbon fiber paper, commonly referred as “carbon paper”, is a conductive substrate characterized by unique properties including high electrical conductivity, chemical stability, low weight, porous structure and mechanical integrity. It has been widely employed as an advanced platform to build energy storage devices, however, this trend is followed by rising concerns regarding the high fiber cost due to the time/energy-consuming high temperature carbonization process in the manufacturing of carbon fibers. It is therefore highly appealing to produce carbon fiber from low-cost natural biopolymer fibers via a shortened carbonization procedure and simplified fabrication process.

The project, which will be carried out at The Division of Nanotechnology and Functional Materials, is aimed at developing cellulose-based carbon fiber for the manufacturing of thickness tuneable, electrochemically stable, mechanically flexible cellulose-based carbon paper, and evaluate its potential in flexible energy storage devices. Other environmental related applications will also be explored. This work includes the preparation of conducting polymer/cellulose composites and using such composites as carbon precursor to produce novel carbon fiber via different carbonization techniques.

Qualifications: We are looking for a strong candidate with a MSc in materials chemistry, materials science, nanotechnology or related fields. It is positive, although not a requirement, if the candidate has some experience in one or more of the following fields: Carbon materials, batteries or supercapacitors, Cellulose paper, Materials preparation and characterization Electrochemistry.

We also expect you to be proficient in oral and written English in order to interact and communicate effectively with all employees as well as to publish internationally.

Personal qualities, such as the ability to manage and run scientific projects and to simultaneously interact with other researchers are very important. The applicant needs to be determined, structured and able to work efficiently both individually and in groups.

Rules governing PhD students are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University's rules and guidelines http://regler.uu.se/?languageId=1.

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.

Starting date: Soon as possible or as otherwise agreed.

Type of employment: Temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7.

Scope of employment: 100 %

For further information about the position please contact: Dr. Jonas Lindh, jonas.lindh@angstrom.uu.se

Please submit your application by 20th January 2020, UFV-PA 2019/4621.

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.