Double Degree PhD student in chemical engineering focusing on chemical pulp

At the department of Engineering, Mathematics and Science Education, we conduct research and education in physics, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, mathematics, industrial design engineering and didactics in mathematics and science education.

We offer unique and world-leading research within the FSCN Research Centre at Mid Sweden University and Chemical Engineering at the Aalto University in Finland.

The research group in Chemical Pulping at Mid Sweden University is part of the FSCN Research Centre and mainly conducts research within kraft and sulfite pulping, as well as novel biomass fractionation technologies. For example, we are developing new analytical methods based on Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) to gain a better understanding of the quality of industrially produced kraft pulp fibers. Moreover, we aim to develop sulfite pulping technology to meet today’s requirements for sustainability. We are now looking for a PhD student funded by the Knowledge Foundation for fundamental research associated to the IRS TransTech - International Research School.

 

Position description

Graduate studies including (80–100%) research and teaching as well as (0–20%) administrative work. Three years of the research project are carried out at the Mid Sweden University in Sundsvall, after which the research be completed during one final year at the Aalto University in Espoo, Finland.

 

Requirements and assessment

To be considered for a PhD position, the applicant must meet the entry requirements for admission to Mid Sweden University´s third-cycle program. To meet the entry requirements, the applicant must have a second-cycle degree, or have completed at least 240 ETCS credits of which at least 60 credits should be second-cycle courses. An additional requirement is that 90 credits of the 240 total must consist of courses in chemistry/chemical engineering. The applicant is also eligible for consideration if s/he has acquired the corresponding knowledge in some other way.

The application process for doctoral study right at the Aalto University follows a separate procedure. Its requirements are explained in detail https://www.aalto.fi/en/study-options/aalto-doctoral-programme-in-chemical-engineering#3-how-to-apply-.

Previous experience with and good knowledge of chemical pulping, wood fibers, and wood-based polymers, as well as characterization methods such as FTIR, NIRS, and SEM are considered particularly meritorious.



Personal characteristics

Personal qualities such as cooperation skills, initiative and suitability for doctoral studies will be weighed against the formal subject knowledge. A brief description of the applicant's visions and goals must be included in the application.


Other assessment grounds

Applicants must have a good ability to express themselves verbally and in writing in English. Good understanding of how to write up research papers and scientific reports can also be considered a useful skill.


The employment process

The employment process follows the forms specified in Chapter 5 of the Higher Education Ordinance and the Employment Procedures of Mid Sweden University.

 

Terms of employment

The doctoral position refers to a full-time position that corresponds to four years of full-time studies and is expected to lead to a doctoral degree.

A new position as a doctoral student is initially valid for a maximum of one year, and the position may then be renewed for a maximum of two years at a time. Provisions concerning employment as a doctoral student are contained in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), Chapter 5, Sections 1-7.

Place of employment: Sundsvall, Sweden (three years), and Espoo, Finland (one year). During your stay in Finland, you will work under conditions given at Aalto University and thus be on leave from Mid-Sweden University.

Entry: January 2, 2024 or according to agreement.

Salary: According to the Mid Sweden University salary scale for PhD students.

For further information please contact head of department Dr. Claes Mattsson, mailto:claes.mattsson@miun.se, +4610 142 8498, and research group leader Prof. Juha Fiskari, mailto:juha.fiskari@miun.se, +4610 142 8135, or visit the department online https://www.miun.se/en/meet-mid-sweden-university/Organisation/departments/imd/.

The application should include a verified CV, copies of official transcripts and degree certificates, description of objectives according to the above as well as other documents the applicant would like to refer to.

Please welcome to apply through our recruitment tool no later than November 6, 2023.

Mid Sweden University has two campuses; in Sundsvall and in Östersund, both located close to students, colleagues and the surrounding society. At the same time, it is located conveniently close to the sea, forests and mountains, which provides a great quality of life. Here, new knowledge is created by means of internationally successful research and education that contribute to the development of our society. This way, we actively contribute to a sustainable future and a better world.


Welcome to a university where people meet, get inspired and think in new ways. 


Mid Sweden University works actively for equal opportunities and strives to embrace the qualities that diversity and equality bring to the organization. Prior to any recruitment work, Mid Sweden University has taken a position on consulting support, recruitment channels and marketing. We therefore kindly ask media vendors, recruitment sites and the like not to contact us.