[OPEN POSITION]: PhD student in Neutron scattering - Probing multiple length scales in functional nanomaterials

PhD student in Materials Chemistry (B) - Ref. No. SU FV-3278-18

at the Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry. Closing date: 5 November 2018.

The Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry (MMK) is one of the largest departments at the Faculty of Natural sciences with about 130 employees. The research activities of MMK are in the areas of Materials and Solid-state Chemistry focusing on different classes of materials; e.g. ceramics and glasses, self-assembled and porous materials, and soft matter. The work often encompasses synthesis, characterisation by X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy, NMR studies, modelling with computer simulations of materials with a potential for various applications. Environmental aspects are an important part of the research activities.

Project description Project title: Neutron scattering as a multiple length scale probe for functional nanomaterials.

Supervisor: Associate Prof. German Salazar Alvarez, german.salazar.alvarez@mmk.su.se.

The project will focus on studying different types of nanomaterials with neutron scattering at the atomic (diffraction) and nanoscopic (small angle neutron scattering, SANS) levels. The work implies comprehensive experiments with neutron scattering in neutron facilities around the world with focus on the multiple length scale approach. The work also includes development, and testing of different sample environments for in-situ characterisation of nanomaterials.

The project is a collaboration between Stockholm University (SU), Uppsala University (UU), and the European Spallation Source (ESS) and has as a long-term plan to expand the neutron diffractometer DREAM at the ESS in Lund to study nanomaterials. Within the project, we will design different sample environments to enable the simultaneous acquisition of data in two length scales (atomic and nanoscopic). In this way, the connection between the variations in the crystal structure and nanoparticle morphology can be established. This will be used to study three different materials classes that have a strong research tradition in Sweden: biomaterials, batteries, and magnetic materials. Some examples of the possible studies include self-assembly of small cellulose fibres, how the structure of batteries changes during usage, or how magnetic nanoparticles assemble under an applied magnetic field. The project is financed by the Swedish Research Council.

The successful candidate should have a background in chemistry or materials science with an interest in utilizing characterization methods such diffraction with Rietveld analysis and/or small-angle scattering. Experience in PDF-analysis of nanomaterials is advantageous. Knowledge of TEM is meritorious but not a requirement.

Qualification requirementsIn order to meet the general entry requirements, the applicant must have completed a second-cycle degree, completed courses equivalent to at least 240 higher education credits, of which 60 credits must be in the second cycle, or have otherwise acquired equivalent knowledge in Sweden or elsewhere.

In order to meet the specific entry requirements, the general syllabus for doctoral studies in the field of Materials chemistry is valid. Those studies should include at least one specialized course or a thesis in the research subject. In order to facilitate the evaluation of merits and suitability for the PhD studies your curriculum vitae (CV) should contain information about the extent and focus of the academic studies. The quantity (as part of an academic year) and the quality mark of courses in chemistry and physics are of particular interest. Please, state titles of undergraduate theses and project works.

The primary assessment criteria in appointing a doctoral student should be the capacity to benefit from the training. The qualification requirements must be met by the deadline for applications.

SelectionThe selection among the eligible candidates will be based on their capacity to benefit from the training. A committee will go through the applications and rank after the applicants capacity to benefit from a PhD education. The following criteria will be used to assess this capacity: the candidates’ documented knowledge in a relevant field of research, written and oral proficiency in English, the capacity for analytical thinking, the ability to collaborate, as well as creativity, initiative, and independence. The assessment will be based on previous experience and grades, the quality of the degree project, references, relevant experience, interviews, and the candidate’s written motivation for seeking the position. A short list will be set up and interviews with the top candidates will be carried out at the department or via internet.

Economic support for the PhD studies are guaranteed for full time studies during the time period agreed on in the individual study plan. The studies does normally mean four years full time studies. You are encouraged to contact the project leader for more information about the project. For general information about the Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry please contact the Head of the Department, Professor Gunnar Svensson, gunnar.svensson@mmk.su.se.

Admission Regulations for Doctoral Studies at Stockholm University are available at: www.su.se/rules.

Terms of employment Only a person who will be or has already been admitted to a third-cycle programme may be appointed to a doctoral studentship.

The term of the initial contract may not exceed one year. The employment may be extended for a maximum of two years at a time. However, the total period of employment may not exceed the equivalent of four years of full-time study.

Doctoral students should primarily devote themselves to their own education, but may engage in teaching, research, and administration corresponding to a maximum of 20 % of a full-time position.

Please note that admission decisions cannot be appealed.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact
For more information, please contact Associate Prof. German Salazar Alvarez, telephone: +46 8 16 39 42, german.salazar.alvarez@mmk.su.se.

Union representatives
Ingrid Lander (Saco-S), telephone: +46 708 16 26 64, saco@saco.su.se, Lisbeth Häggberg (Fackförbundet ST and Lärarförbundet), telephone: +46 8 16 20 00 (operator), seko@seko.su.se(SEKO), and PhD student representative, doktorandombud@sus.su.se.

Application
Apply for the PhD student position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

Please include the following information with your application

• Your contact details and personal data
• Your highest degree
• Your language skills
• Contact details for 2–3 references

and, in addition, please include the following documents

• Cover letter
• CV – degrees and other completed courses, work experience and a list of degree projects/theses
• Project proposal/Research proposal describing:
  – why you are interested in the field/project described in the advertisement
  – why and how you wish to complete the project
  – what makes you suitable for the project in question
• Degree certificates and grades confirming that you meet the general and specific entry requirements (no more than 6 files)
• Letters of recommendation (no more than 6 files)
• Degree projects/theses (no more than 6 files).

The instructions for applicants are available at: Instructions – Applicants.

You are welcome to apply!

Stockholm University – our education and research produce results.

URL to this pagehttps://www.su.se/english/about/working-at-su/phd?rmpage=job&rmjob=7028&rmlang=UK

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[OPEN POSITION]: PhD student in Materials Chemistry

PhD student in Materials Chemistry

at the Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry. Closing date: 24 April 2018.

The Department of Materials- and Environmental Chemistry (MMK) is one of the largest departments at the Faculty of Natural sciences with about 130 employees. The research activities of MMK are in the areas of Materials and Solid-state Chemistry focusing on different classes of materials; e.g. ceramics and glasses, self-assembled and porous materials, and soft matter. The work often encompasses synthesis, characterisation by X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy, NMR studies, modelling with computer simulations of materials with a potential for various applications. Environmental aspects are an important part of the research activities.

Project descriptionProject title: In-situ characterization of nanoparticles for electrocatalytic production of hydrogen.

Supervisor: Associate Prof. Germán Salazar-Alvarez, german.salazar.alvarez@mmk.su.se.

This PhD project will focus on the synthesis of catalytic nanomaterials for the partial oxidation of alcohols and their operando characterization using total scattering at synchrotron facilities and in-situ IR spectroscopy.

The target of the program is to develop efficient and selective catalysts through an effort involving theory, materials and electrocatalytic design and testing. The approach in the present project is in particular to fabricate and characterize nanomaterials to partially oxidize excess glycerol from biofuel production and waste carbohydrates from wood-based Kraft pulp processes to produce valuable chemicals and hydrogen. This PhD project is part of the program Materials for energy applications funded by the Swedish Foundation for Strategic Research (SSF). The project will be carried out in close collaboration within the project consortium consisting of researchers from KTH and SU and a couple of Swedish enterprises. A considerable part of the experiments will be carried out at synchrotron facilities around the world, primarily in Hamburg.

The successful candidate should have a background in chemistry or materials science with an interest in nanoparticle synthesis and in utilizing characterization methods such X-ray diffraction with Rietveld analysis. Experience in PDF analysis of nanomaterials and other related synchrotron techniques is advantageous. Knowledge of IR spectroscopy and TEM is meritorious but not a requirement.

More details on requirements and how to apply at 

https://www.su.se/english/about/working-at-su/phd?rmpage=job&rmjob=5052&rmlang=UK

[OPEN POSITION]: PhD student in Inorganic Chemistry

PhD student in Inorganic Chemistry

at the Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry. Closing date: 24 April 2018.

The Department of Materials- and Environmental Chemistry (MMK) is one of the largest departments at the Faculty of Natural sciences with about 130 employees. The research activities of MMK are in the areas of Materials and Solid-state Chemistry focusing on different classes of materials; e.g. ceramics and glasses, self-assembled and porous materials, and soft matter. The work often encompasses synthesis, characterisation by X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy, NMR studies, modelling with computer simulations of materials with a potential for various applications. Environmental aspects are important for the research activities.

Project descriptionProject title: Synthesis and characterization of nanoparticles for electrocatalytic production of hydrogen.

Supervisor: Professor Mats Johnsson, mats.johnsson@mmk.su.se.

The project will focus on synthesis and characterization of nanoparticles aimed as electrocatalysts for hydrogen production based on excess glycerol from biofuel production and waste carbohydrates from wood-based Kraft pulp processes.

Many research projects aiming at hydrogen production focus on water splitting. The water oxidation reaction is associated with high anodic potentials due to unfavorable thermodynamics and slow reaction kinetics. Oxygen is a by-product from hydrogen production from water and is normally just released into the atmosphere. The approach in the present project is to replace the anodic reaction with partial oxidation of alcohols that results in a large decrease in electrical energy demand for hydrogen evolution and also valuable anodic products. This PhD project is part of the program Materials for energy applications funded by the foundation for strategic research (SSF). The project group consists of researchers from KTH and SU and the PhD student will also interact with Swedish enterprises. The target of the program is development of efficient and selective catalysts through an effort involving theory, materials and electrocatalytic design and testing.

The successful candidate should have a background in chemistry or materials science with an interest in synthetic inorganic chemistry and in utilizing several characterization methods such as SEM-EDS, TEM, Powder X-ray diffraction, and electrochemical measurements. Knowledge of those methods is a plus although not strictly required.

More info on requirements and how to apply at:

https://www.su.se/english/about/working-at-su/phd?rmpage=job&rmjob=4999&rmlang=UK

[OPEN POSITION]: PhD-position in solid state physics – X-ray and Neutron scattering

PhD-position in solid state physics – X-ray and Neutron scattering

Published: 2017-04-04

Uppsala University is an international research university focused on the development of science and education. Our most important assets are all the individuals who with their curiosity and their dedication make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting work places. Uppsala University has 40,000 students, 7,000 employees and a turnover of SEK 6,5 billion.

A PhD-position in solid state physics – X-ray and Neutron scattering in the subject Engineering Science with specialization in the solid state physics, at the Ångström Laboratory, Department of Engineering Sciences, Division of Solid state physics (http://teknik.uu.se/solid-state-physics+/?languageId=3). Starting date as soon as possible.

This project will be conducted as part of a collaborative effort between Structural Chemistry and Solid State Physics, both situated at the Ångström Laboratory. The Ångström Advanced Battery Centre at Structural chemistry is the largest battery research group in the Nordic countries. Our research focuses on all aspects of the chemistry of rechargeable batteries; recently, we are looking at advanced nanomaterials with the aim of making energy storage more sustainable and cost-effective. The Magnetism group at the division of Solid State Physics is working with experimental research on novel magnetic materials, and has made key contributions to this research field. Apart from pursuing basic research on magnetic materials, the group is also involved in interdisciplinary research; developing magnetic nanoparticle based bioassays, and the study of the magnetization dynamics of self-assembled nanoparticle assemblies.

The PhD project will focus on the characterization of nanomaterials using neutron and X-ray scattering. The focal point of the project is the combination of scattering techniques at multiple length scales, in order gain insights in materials and processes by covering both the atomic- and the mesoscale. Several different materials will be explored throughout the project, including self-assembled magnetic nanomaterials and battery components. This work is funded by the Swedish research council, with the aim to develop several sample environments for the neutron diffractometer DREAM at the European spallation source (ESS). The work is performed in close collaboration with Stockholm University and involves travel to major facilities in EU and other parts of the world. We offer a varied and exciting work, with well-established collaboration with the department of Chemistry at the Ångström laboratory as well as with nationally and internationally renowned research groups.

We are seeking candidates with a MSc in engineering or science. A strong motivation and ability to work independently is desirable, and good verbal and written skills in English are required. Experience in materials science work will be considered as a merit.

The PhD position is for four years, extendable to a maximum of five years including departmental duties at a level of at most 20% (typically teaching).

Further information http://www.teknat.uu.se and http://www.teknik.uu.se.

Local guidelines for salary placement are used.

Uppsala University aims for gender balance and diversity in all activities in order to achieve a higher quality at all levels of the organization. We therefore welcome applicants of any gender and with different birth background, functionality and life experience.

Applications should include a brief description of research interests and relevant experience, a CV, copies of diplomas and certificates, thesis (or a draft thereof) and other relevant documents. The candidates are encouraged to provide letter(s) of recommendation and contact information to reference persons.

For further information please contact Dr Erik Wetterskog, +46-(0)18-471 3115, erik.wetterskog@angstrom.uu.se

You are welcome to submit your application no later than 25 April 2017, UFV-PA 2017/1102.

We decline offers of recruitment and advertising help. We only accept the application the way described in the advertisement.

Placement: Department of Engineering Sciences

Type of employment: Full time , Temporary position longer than 6 months

Pay: Fixed pay

Number of positions: 1

Working hours: 100 %

Town: Uppsala

County: Uppsala län

Country: Sweden

Union representative: Ellena Papaioannou, Seko 018-471 3315
Marie Ols, TCO/ST 018-471 2459
Per Sundman, Saco-rådet 018-471 1485 

Number of reference: UFV-PA 2017/1202

Last application date: 2017-04-25

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PhD Position in Analytical Transmission Electron Microscopy::Stockholm University, Sweden

Project title: Studies and characterization of interfaces in nanoscale materials using novel 3DEM techniques. 

Reference number: SU FV-3142-13 (project HT13-1).

Deadline: November 20, 2013

General information.

Stockholm University (http://www.su.se) is a modern university with a multicultural environment and is one of the world’s top 100 higher education institutes. Here more than 60,000 students and 5,000 staff are active within science, humanities and social sciences. The Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry (MMK, http://www.mmk.su.se) is a leading institution with research spanning over Materials and Solid State Chemistry focusing on different classes of materials, from ceramics and glasses to self-assembled and porous materials. The work often encompasses synthesis, characterisation by X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy, NMR studies, and modelling with computer simulations. Environmental aspects are also an important part of the research activities, where refined natural or anthropogenic chemicals and materials are studied in relation to their impact in our global environment.

Project description.

Synthetic and naturally occurring nanostructured materials are the building blocks of nanoscience and nanotechnology. These nanostructures often exhibit novel properties as their physical dimensions become comparable to certain characteristic length scales, which situate them at the border between quantum effects and bulk properties.

Nanomaterials composed of two phases often shown interesting interfacial phenomena. This project focuses on developing element specific three-dimensional electron microscopy (3DEM) to obtain compositional and crystallographic information at the interface of such nanoscale materials and correlate it with optical and magnetic properties. The project will be carried out in close collaboration with other groups at Stockholm University and international partners in Spain, Denmark and USA.

Relevant publications:

1.   E. Wetterskog, C.W. Tai, J. Grins, L. Bergström and G. Salazar-Alvarez, ACS Nano 2013 7, 7132.

2.   G. Salazar-Alvarez, H. Lidbaum, A. López-Ortega, M. Estrader, K. Leifer, J. Sort, S. Suriñach, M. D. Baró, and J. Nogués, Journal of the American Chemical Society 2011 133, 16738.

3.   K.L. Krycka, J. A. Borchers, G. Salazar-Alvarez, A. López-Ortega, M. Estrader, S. Estradé, E. Winkler, R.D. Zysler, J. Sort, F. Peiró, Maria Dolors Baró, C.C. Kao, and J. Nogués, ACS Nano 2013 7, 921.

4.   S. Disch, E. Wetterskog, R. P. Hermann, G. Salazar-Alvarez, P. Busch, T. Brueckel, L. Bergström, S. Kamali, Nano Letters 2011, 11, 1651.

Funding: The project will be funded by the recently approved KAW project “3DEM-
NATUR” (http://www.mmk.su.se/page.php?pid=945).

More information.

About the project: Doc. Germán Salazar-Alvarez, Group leader, german@mmk.su.se (http://www.mmk.su.se/page.php?pid=155&id=1303)

About MMK: Prof. Gunnar Svensson, Head of Department, gunnar.svensson@mmk.su.se.

Starting date: the anticipated starting date is February 1, 2014, or later.

How to apply.

Interested candidates should send their application and supporting material to: registrator@su.se with reference number SU FV-3142-13 in the subject field.

Your application should contain:

• An application on the form (can be found at www.mmk.su.se/page.php?pid=413) together with CV and documentation of study merits, where your eligibility is clearly documented (see below).
• A "Letter of intent", describing your expectations of the PhD studies connected to the project.
• IMPORTANT: Please combine all your documents into a single, self-contained pfd-file, including the cover letter.

Eligibility.

To be eligible for PhD studies in chemistry, an education at the undergraduate level of at least 240 credits is required (corresponding to three years of full-time studies on undergraduate level and one year on advanced level) with at least 60 credits in chemistry or physics. Those studies should include at least one specialized course or a thesis in the research subject. In order to facilitate the evaluation of merits and suitability for the PhD studies your curriculum vitae (CV) should contain information about the extent and focus of the academic studies. The quantity (as part of an academic year) and the quality mark of courses in chemistry and physics are of particular interest. Please, state titles of undergraduate theses and project works. Further information is found in the home page, www.mmk.su.se/page.php?pid=413.

A selection committee will assess the candidate´s ability to successfully complete the PhD program and invite short-listed candidates to an interview in person or via internet. The study merits are an important selection criterion. Economic support for the graduate studies is guaranteed for full time studies during the time agreed in the individual study syllabus (study plan), normally for four years of full time studies, see  www.mmk.su.se/page.php?pid=413.

See link at http://www.nature.com/naturejobs/science/jobs/351442-phd-position-in-analytical-transmission-electron-microscopy

Application to the PhD programme at the Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Stockholm University, November 2013

Original text at http://www.mmk.su.se/page.php?pid=983

Application to the graduate research program (PhD studies) at MMK, November 2013

Ref number SU FV-3142-13

The Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry (MMK), offers 6 new places for graduate students after an application procedure as described below.

General information:

The extensive research activities of MMK, hosting the Berzelii Center EXSELENT for development of nanoporous materials for catalysis, span over Materials and Solid State Chemistry focusing on different classes of materials; e.g. ceramics and glasses, self-assembled and porous materials, and soft matter. The work often encompasses synthesis, characterisation by x-ray diffraction and electron microscopy, NMR studies, modelling with computer simulations of materials with a potential for various applications. Environmental aspects are an important part of the research activities, where refined natural or anthropogenic inorganic and organic chemicals and materials are studied in relation to their sole or combined impact on, and interaction with biological and non-biological systems in our global environment.

For project and application information please read the PhD advert

4 Open PhD positions at MMK - Stockholm University

The Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry offers 4 new places for graduate students

Application to the graduate research program (PhD 

studies) at MMK, November 2012

The Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry (MMK,http://www.mmk.su.se/), offers 4 new places for graduate students after an application procedure as described below.

General information:

The extensive research activities of MMK, hosting the Berzelii Center EXSELENT for development of nanoporous materials for catalysis, span over Materials and Solid State Chemistry focusing on different classes of materials; e.g. ceramics and glasses, self-assembled and porous materials, and soft matter. The work often encompasses synthesis, characterisation by x-ray diffraction and electron microscopy, NMR studies, modelling with computer simulations of materials with a potential for various applications. Environmental aspects are an important part of the research activities, where refined natural or anthropogenic inorganic and organic chemicals and materials are studied in relation to their sole or combined impact on, and interaction with biological and non-biological systems in our global environment.

More information on the positions and application procedure here.

The deadline is November 20, 2012

For more information on the project HT12-3: Fabrication of biopolymer–nanoparticle hybrids contact directly the project leader Germán Salazar-Álvarez at german@mmk.su.se .