Researcher in Solid State Physics with focus on the design and investigation of novel magnetic nanocomposites for environmental applications - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Temporary full-time position for 12 months, starting as soon as possible or by agreement

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.

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About the division

The Division of Solid State Physics is part of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ångström Laboratory. At the division, we do both basic and application-oriented research that is related to energy and environmental aspects as well as life science via our different research areas. Most commonly, we investigate physical and chemical properties of nanomaterials and compounds whether they will be used as coatings for smart windows, for gas sensors, photocatalytic coatings, and spintronics, or for biomagnetic applications or to create new magnetic materials for environmentally friendly energy technologies.

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Project description

In the project, we aim to synthesize and characterize functional magnetic nanocomposites and investigate their potential as nano-adsorbents and photocatalysts for the removal of pollutants from water via adsorption and/or catalysis. Solution-based synthesis techniques will be used to synthesize nanocomposites that will contain magnetic components, preferably iron oxides, to enable magnetic separation. The synthesized materials will be characterized by morphological/structural analysis, surface investigations, and detailed magnetic measurements. The catalytic properties of the nanocomposites and their adsorption efficiencies will be investigated to determine their ability to remove water contaminants by measuring adsorption isotherms and performing kinetic studies.

Duties

The main task within the research project described above is to conduct basic and applied research focused on synthesis of magnetic nanocomposites using solution-based synthesis techniques and to evaluate their applicability for water purification. The tasks also include working, alone or with others, to:

• Carry out structural and morphological characterization of the synthesized materials using state-of-the-art diffraction and microscopy techniques
• Carry out photocatalytic and adsorption studies using the synthesized materials, focusing on a range of water pollutants (heavy metals, radionuclides, pharmaceutical chemicals, dyes)
• Carry out magnetic characterization of the synthesized materials using state-of-the-art magnetometers and Mossbauer spectroscopy 

You are expected to work safely and independently in a lab environment, as well as effectively in a large multidisciplinary group of physicists, chemists, and materials scientists.

In addition, 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.

Qualification requirements

PhD degree in physics or materials science, or a closely related field.

We require documented knowledge and several years of research experience of:

• Magnetism
• Solution-based chemical synthesis
• Basic material and structural characterization
• Measurement of adsorption, catalysis, and magnetic properties

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

Additional qualifications

Experience in supervision of master and PhD students will be considered a strong merit.

We attach great importance to your personal qualities and you must be able to lead and run projects and at the same time be able to interact with other researchers. You must be dedicated, structured, and be able to work effectively both individually and in groups.  

When assessing the applications, special emphasis will be placed on the applicant's ability to publish scientific work in peer-reviewed international journals.

Your application must include

• A short letter of description of yourself, why are you interested in joining this project, and why you are suitable for this position
• CV (maximum 2 pages)
• Copy of the PhD, master's degree (or equivalent) and academic transcripts
• Publication list. Mark the most relevant publications for the position and comment your contribution to those publications.
• Names and contact details of at least two reference persons who have accepted to be references for you. It must also be stated what relationship you have had with the respective referent.

During the application period, we will continuously read application documents and call for interviews

About the employment

The position is a temporary position for 12 months. Scope of employment: 100%. Starting  date 2025-09-01 or by agreement . Placement: Uppsala

For further information about the position, please contact:

Associate Professor Tapati Sarkar, tapati.sarkar@angstrom.uu.se, +46 18 471 3359

Please submit your application no later than 17th of February 2025, UFV-PA 2025/225

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