Research assistant in Polymer chemistry - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The Department of Chemistry - Ångström laboratory conducts research and education in the chemistry field. The department has more than 230 employees and has a turnover over 230 million SEK. At the department's seven programs, we conduct very successful research of a high international standard. We have a large number of externally funded research projects, often with international cooperation and we see continued good growth in our subject area. The department has education assignments in engineering and civil engineering programs and master's programs. To read more, visit our website.

Work duties: The applicant will be required to derive strategies to use mycosporine-like amino acids (MAA’s) as crosslinking agents to develop one or more classes of injectable hydrogels using ECM based polysaccharides viz. collagen. The applicant will functionalize polysaccharides like gelatin using orthogonal functionalities on the mycosporines. The applicant will further characterize the physical, chemical and biological properties acquired by the crosslinking of such polysaccharides and ascertain the mechanical properties as well as the photo-stability of such hydrogels using NMR, AT-FTIR, UV and rheology. Evaluation of the hydrogels for various levels of photo-stability and protection from UV-A and UV-B light will also require knowledge and expertise in cell culture. As the applicant will evaluate these properties for skin protection, he/she will therefore develop such tests on NIH 3T3 fibroblasts. 

Requirements:

• The applicant should have a Master degree or equivalent in chemistry, biochemistry, biomaterials, nanotechnology, or any other similar disciplines.
• Hands on experience and good knowledge on chemical modification of collagen and hyaluronic acid, hydrogel preparation using biorthogonal crosslinking reaction, characterization of hydrogel physical properties, mechanical characterization of hydrogels and cell culture is necessary.
• The applicant is required to have strong data organization and data presentation capabilities. In addition, report writing in a scientific and coherent manner on a day-to-day basis is necessary.

We will place great emphasis on personal suitability. Consideration will also be given to i.e. good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen the administrative work within the unit/department, as well as contribute to its future development.

Instructions on how to apply: Applications should include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position and in what way the employment corresponds to your qualifications. The application should also contain a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).

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: Individual salary.

Starting date: As soon as possible or as otherwise agreed.

Type of employment: Temporary position ending 2020-05-31.

Scope of employment: 100 %

For further information about the position, please contact: Sujit Kootala, sujit.kootala@kemi.uu.se.

Please submit your application by 24 February 2020, UFV-PA 2020/421.

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.