Researcher to develop sample environment and analysis for small-angle scattering (SANS/SAXS) - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The Department of Chemistry - Ångström conducts research and education in the chemistry field. The department has more than 260 employees and has a turnover just over 250 million SEK. At the department's six 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. More information is available on our website.

Description of Position: This position will be placed at the Division of Polymer Chemistry in Uppsala University, and forms part of a wider collaboration between the Uppsala and Lund Universities (Dr Cedric Dicko), and the European Spallation Source, ESS (Dr Judith Houston). The goal of this project is to improve the quantity and quality of data collected on high-power small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) beamlines. With the primary aim to prepare for first science on LoKI, a SANS instrument currently under construction at the ESS. For more information about the ESS and the future beamlines see: https://europeanspallationsource.se/instruments. 

Work duties: This is an 18-month researcher position with two main tasks. 1) To further develop a sample environment for the SANS beamline LoKI at the ESS. The current “NUrF” set-up allows for simultaneous optical spectroscopy measurements (UV-VIS, fluorescence), SANS data collection and automated filling with a HPLC pump. This project will develop the environment to incorporate the automated filling of viscous samples using syringe pumps. 2) It also includes the development of data management and analysis routines for large data volumes.

Travel between the project partners and visits to neutron facilities are expected.

The tasks include:

• Develop strategies to simultaneously collect and interpret small angle scattering and complementary techniques data as UV-VIS and Fluorescence spectroscopies for life science and soft matter applications,
• Develop data management and analysis routines for the large amounts of data generated using small-angle scattering techniques and simultaneous ancillary measurements,
• Integrate syringe pumps into the current NUrF setup, with an adapted flow-through cell for better mixing system for studies of viscous samples,
• Participate in small-angle scattering experiments at X-ray and/or neutron facilities on systems such as protein-polymer formulations, to generate test data.

Requirements: Applicants must have:

• A PhD within the field of physics, chemistry or a related subject,
• Very good oral and written proficiency in English,
• Experience in manipulating and interpreting large data sets,
• Computer programming and/or scripting skills,
• Demonstrated ability to work in teams and interact with a diverse group of scientists and technical staff in a dynamic environment.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

Additional requirements: Experience with the some of the following topics would be useful:

• Competence in small-angle X-ray and/or neutron scattering (SAXS/SANS) of biological samples, surfactants or polymers,
• SAXS and/or SANS data reduction and analysis routines,
• UV-VIS absorption and fluorescence analysis,
• EPICs device drivers,
• Instrument control (neutron/X-ray equipment, sample environment, etc.),
• Modern software development practises,
• Preparation of publications in the scientific literature.

Application procedure: The application should include a statement of research interest, CV, certificates of exams, degrees and grades, a copy of thesis, published article or relevant materials, if available. Also, contact information for at least two reference persons should be included.

Salary: Individual pay.

Starting date: 2021-05-17 or as agreed.

Type of employment: Temporary full-time position for 18 months.

Scope of employment: 100 %.

For further information about the position please contact: Professor Adrian Rennie, Tel:  +46 18 471 3596, e-mail: Adrian.Rennie@physics.uu.se.

Please submit your application by 15-04-2021, UFV-PA 2021/1101.

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