PhD student position for development of sustainable energy solutions through organic framework composites - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The Division of Nanotechnology and Functional Materials (NFM), is part of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the Ångström Laboratory. Researchers at NFM have extensive experience in research into organic energy storage, biocompatibility and nanosafety, additive manufacturing, as well as development of functional porous materials for different application areas, such as drug delivery, gas separation, water purification and catalysis.

Project description: Organic frameworks (MOFs and COFs) are porous, polymeric and crystalline materials that in short time have established themselves in the research front as a "hot" material for a variety of applications. Organic frameworks containing redox-active groups are investigated for a variety of green energy applications, e.g. as the active part in batteries or for hydrogen production through electrocatalysis. Currently, most frameworks are limited to nanometer thin films due to poor electrical conductivity in the material, which means that a large part of the redox groups remain inactive. Scalability and new challenges that arise in thicker materials remain unexplored and need to be addressed in order for these materials to fully contribute to the ongoing green energy revolution. The project aim to develop and study composites consisting of framework compounds and an electrically conductive material, such as carbon nanotubes or conductive polymers. We will begin by studying already developed electrocatalytic organic frameworks for hydrogen production and carbon dioxide conversion, with the aim of creating new scalable and highly adaptable materials.

Work 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 PhD position involves the design, synthesize and evaluation of composite materials for green energy applications. The project involves three different parts and the goal is that, in time, the doctoral student will be able to execute all of these.

The three parts are:

Organic chemistry and synthesis - needed to create the building blocks required for the organic frameworks as well as for the understanding of functional units and possible changes / improvements. Characterization of these with e.g. NMR.

Material and composite synthesis – formation of the organic frameworks and then composite materials from these. Compare and characterize these materials with regard to e.g. porosity, crystallinity and morphology.

Evaluation of the composites for energy applications - electrochemical characterization of the materials, determination of activity and limitations.

Qualification requirements: Master of Science in chemistry or in the corresponding subject area that is relevant to the research project. The project lies in the boundary between several traditional subject areas and the applicant's qualitification to work in such an environment will be evaluated (see duties above).  

Great emphasis will be placed on personal suitability. Consideration will also be given to the candidate's collaborative ability, drive and independence as well as how the applicant, through his/her experience and competence, is deemed to have the ability needed to pass the postgraduate education.

Very good oral and written proficiency in English.

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.

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.

Your application: The application should contain:

1) A brief personal letter where you briefly describe yourself, why you want to become a PhD student and why you are suitable for the position.

2) A CV/résume (max 2 pages).

3) Certified copies of your Master’s degree and course grades.

4) Copies (or drafts thereof) of thesis work and other documents, such as publications, which you wish to invoke.

5) Name and contact information to two persons who have agreed to act as referees for you, alternatively, letter(s) of recommendation. It should be stated what your relationship is to each referent.

Salary: According to local agreement for PhD students.

Starting date: Upon agreement, at the latest during autumn 2020.

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. Rikard Emanuelsson, rikard.emanuelsson@angstrom.uu.se

Please submit your application by 30 April 2020,  UFV-PA 2020/999. 

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.