Postdoctoral position in the field of microsystems technology with a focus on circular technology with hydrogels for smart patches - 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 project is about developing smart patches with more sustainable technology and with reduced environmental impact. We will study patches based on biomaterials, which are biodegradable without microplastic waste, as well as new methods for reusing electronic components and recycling metals.

The project is part of the Horizon Europe project PERSIMMON, which starts in the autumn with 13 partners from five countries and is coordinated by us, and builds on previous work in the H2020 project SINTEC. In collaboration with colleagues and other partners, smart patches for various applications in e.g. sports medicine will be developed. Technology transfer to industrial partners will be done to enable the production of prototypes for the end users.

Work duties
The tasks of this research project include the development of materials suitable for the production of soft and compliant printed circuits to be laminated with patches to create smart disposable patches. Additive manufacturing is used to print circuits with digital printing of composites and different dielectrics. Materials and components must be chosen based on a circular sustainability perspective, which is why the development of processes to break down biomaterials, especially to prevent microplastics, as well as reuse or recycle included electronic components and metals are included in the tasks. Careful material analysis, as well as chemical and electrical characterization of materials and systems will be an essential part of the work.

The work in the project may involve short stays abroad at internationally leading companies or universities.

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 undergraduate 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 doctoral degree, or a foreign degree equivalent to a doctoral 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.

This position requires a PhD in chemistry, materials science, or micro- and nanotechnology, or a related field.

We also  require documented knowledge of hydrogels and their mechanical properties. 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 highly advantageous to have experimental research experience in the development of elastomers and hydrogels with focus on their mechanical properties, as well as in the manufacture of stretchable electronics or smart patches.

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.  Starting date 2025-01-01 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 2024/1008.

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