PhD student position within Applied Mechanics: Multi scale modeling of kinetics in kraft cooking - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The Division of Applied Mechanics has strong focus on modeling of various materials’ properties at length scales from Ångströms to meters. Multiscale modeling spanning from molecular dynamics simulations via micromechanics to  continuum models are regularly employed for optimization, investigating behavior of new materials or  explaining mechanisms as a link between experiments and theory.  

Project description: We are now looking for a doctoral student within the industrial graduate school Resource Smart Processes. The graduate school is funded by participating industrial companies and Vinnova through the strategic innovation program BioInnovation, and focused on studying and further developing today's manufacturing processes of pulp, paper and packaging materials with the goal of increasing efficiency and reducing raw material and energy needs. The project will be carried out in close collaboration with participating industrial companies and parts of the project work will be carried out in industrial environments. More information about the industrial graduate school Resource Smart Processes  can be found on the website https://www.resurssmarta.se.

This particular project is aiming to develop theoretical model to describe the mass transport subprocesses taking place during delignification in the kraft process. To this end, multiple modeling approaches will be applied; from atomistic to large scale mass transport models.

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 work tasks in this project include performing Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations of lignin under various conditions using Gromacs software and also develop mass transport models in a 3D numerical model, e.g., in COMSOL Multiphysics or Python.

Qualification requirements: MSc in physics, physical chemistry, materials science or similar disciplines related to the research field.

We require very good oral and written proficiency English.

Additional qualifications: General computer and programming skills and experience of MD simulations and/or numerical modelling of mass transport phenomena is an advantage and so is also a strong interest in modelling, wood chemistry and pulping processes.

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.

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/.

Application: The application should contain a brief description of the research interests and relevant experience, CV, publication list, copies of diplomas and grades, thesis work (or a draft thereof) and other relevant documents. We would like you to provide reference information or attach a letter of recommendation.

Salary: According to local agreement for PhD students.

Starting date: As 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: Assistant Professor Malin Wohlert malin.wohlert@angstrom.uu.se.

Please submit your application by September 17, 2021, UFV-PA 2021/3149.

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