Doctoral (PhD) position in Microsystems Technology with focus on Additive Manufacturing of Green Biomaterials Based Smart Patches - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Admission to Doctoral (PhD) Studies in the subject Engineering Sciences with specialization in Microsystems Technology

at the Division of Microsystems Technology, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Uppsala University.

Join us!
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 with close contacts with students through the department's involvement in engineering and master's programs. Our research and teaching are conducted within seven divisions with different research focus.

Read more about us here.

About the division
The Division of Microsystems Technology is part of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, at the Ångström Laboratory. Researchers at MST have extensive experience in materials science, mechanics and manufacturing of microsystems, and 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 found especially 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. Within the project we study patches based on biomaterials, which are biodegradable without microplastic waste, as well as new methods for reusing electronic components and recycling metals. In the doctoral project, the focus is on additive manufacturing of printed circuits with digital printing of composites and different dielectrics. In collaboration with colleagues and other partners, smart patches are developed for various applications in e.g. sports medicine. Technology transfer to industrial partners is done to enable the production of prototypes for the end users.

The project is part of the Horizon Europe project PERSIMMON, which starts in the autumn of 2024 with 13 partners from 5 countries, is coordinated by us and builds on previous work. PERSIMMON makes smart patch technology greener, by reducing the environmental impact of the anticipated billions of disposable smart patches that will hopefully be used annually worldwide.

Duties
The main duty for a doctoral student is to devote themselves to their research studies, which includes participating in the research project and PhD courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

When you are admitted to doctoral studies, you are offered employment as a doctoral student. A position as a doctoral student at Uppsala University corresponds to full-time PhD education for four years.

Read more about being a Doctoral student here.

The tasks of the research project include the development of manufacturing techniques for soft and compliant printed circuits, as well as being involved in the design and analysis of the circuits. Materials and technology must be chosen based on a circular sustainability perspective, with high demands on the reuse or recycling of components and metals after the use of these smart patches. Accurate mechanical, chemical and electrical characterization of materials and systems is a necessary part of the work.

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

Qualification requirements

Master's degree with studies in chemistry, materials science, micro- and nanosystems technology, or equivalent.

Documented courses or project work in polymer chemistry is required, independent on the degree.

We require good skills in oral and written English.

Rules governing PhD students are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100) chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University's rules and guidelines.

Additional qualifications
It is highly meritorious to have research experience in mechanical properties of elastomers and hydrogels, as well as in the manufacturing of stretchable electronics or smart patches.

Experience in measurement technology and integration of microsystems are meritorious. Practical experience and interest in handicrafts and building things, are meritorious. As a large part of our teaching takes place in Swedish, knowing Swedish is also an advantage, although of less importance than other qualifications.

Great emphasis will be placed on personal qualities such as the ability to independently plan and carry out work, to have good cooperation and communication skills, and to be able to work effectively both individually and in a group. You also have a good ability to write academic text.

 Your application must include,

1) A short cover letter in which you describe yourself, why you want to do a PhD and why you are suitable for this position.

2) CV (max 2 pages)

3) A certified copy of your master's degree and your course grades.

4) Copies (or drafts) of your master's thesis and other documents, such as publications, that you wish to refer to.

5) Names and contact details of at least two contact persons who have accepted to be references for you, with any additional letters of recommendation. It must also be stated what relationship you have had with the respective referent. 

The application should be written in English. We will continuously read applications and call for interviews.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date as soon as possible or at the latest 2024-09-01. Placement: Uppsala

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

Please submit your application by 25 April 2024, UFV-PA 2024/854

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