Postdoctoral position in the field of microsystems technology with a focus on mechanical energy harvesters for wearable textile robots - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering aims to be an environment for successful and valuable research and education with a focus on materials science solutions for important societal challenges. Our department is an exciting workplace with research in a broad technology-related area, from basic research to large-scale applied research, and close contacts with students through the department's involvement in civil engineering, bachelor's and master's programs. Our research and teaching is conducted within seven divisions with different research focus.

The Division of Microsystems Technology is part of the Department of Materials Science, and engineering, Ångström Laboratory. Researchers at MST have extensive experience in materials science, mechanics and manufacturing of microsystems, where we develop sensors, actuators and microfluidics. Research groups are specialized in soft and stretchable microsystems, high-pressure microfluidics, additive manufacturing, space technology, and gas sensors. The applications are particularly in environmental analysis, biomedical engineering, robotics and harsh environments.

Project description
The aim of the project is to develop mechanical systems to be worn on the body to collect and pressurize air through walking or other natural body movements, and to then use the pressurized air to drive components for kinesthetic haptic feedback. More specifically, the project is about light and energy-efficient wearable textile robots for touch and especially for kinesthetic haptic feedback, where forces up to 100 N may be needed.

The project is part of the SSF project Touch, which deals with how touch between man and machine is communicated via the internet. The focus will be on energy harvesting, building on the results found in "A wearable textile-based pneumatic energy harvesting system for assistive robotics" (Shveda et al., Sci. Adv. 8, eabo2418, 2022).

Work duties
The tasks include developing a mechanical system that can pressurize pressure vessels up to 10 bar. A first part of the project involves developing mechanical energy harvesters and various techniques to increase the pressure in the saved compressed air. The next step in the project is to use the pressurized air to power various systems for kinesthetic haptic feedback.

In addition to research, some participation in supervision of doctoral students, master's and project students as well as communication of research results through scientific articles in well-established scientific journals and presentations at international conferences are also included as important aspects of the employment. Some participation in teaching may also be included. You are also expected to contribute to applications for external research funds.

Qualification requirements
For employment as a postdoctoral fellow, you must have a PhD degree, or a foreign degree  equivalent to a PhD degree. The degree needs to be obtained by the time of the decision of employment. Those who have obtained a PhD degree three years prior to the application deadline are primarily considered for the employment. The starting point of the three-year frame period is the application deadline. Due to special circumstances, the degree may have been obtained earlier. The three-year period can be extended due to circumstances such as sick leave, parental leave, duties in labour unions, etc.

For this position, a PhD in mechanical engineering, mechanics, robotics, or a related field is required.

We  require documented knowledge and experience of mechanical design and manufacturing with CNC machines. We require excellent analytical ability as well as skill with practical handling of experimental equipment.

We require very good written and oral skills in English, as well as very good skills in writing scientific publications.

We also require the ability to work focused, structured and with foresight and within given time frames, both individually and in a group, and to be able to collaborate in an interdisciplinary environment with colleagues both inside and outside the department.

Additional qualifications
It is very advantageous to have knowledge and research experience of pneumatics or hydraulics. It is advantageous to have documented knowledge in manufacturing technology.

When assessing the applications, special emphasis will be placed on the applicant's documented experience of publishing scientific works in high-quality journals and giving presentations at scientific meetings.

Instructions for application
Your application must include:
1. A short letter describing yourself and why you are suitable for this position.
2. CV (max. 2 pages)
3. List of relevant publications
4. A copy of your PhD
5. Names and contact details (address, e-mail address and telephone number) of at least two reference persons

The application can preferably be written in English. During the application period, we will continuously read applications and call for interviews.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position of 2 years according to central collective agreement.  Full time position. Starting date as soon as possible or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala

For further information about the position, please contact: Professor Klas Hjort, klas.hjort@angstrom.uu.se

Please submit your application by 17 April 2024, UFV-PA 2024/1007.

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