PhD student in physical chemistry; photocontrol of chemical reactions

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student for a research project focused on how we can use light to create fuels from sunlight. The position will allow you to work in a creative and collaborative environment where you will learn many optical spectroscopic techniques and gain an in depth-understanding of the fundamental interactions between light and matter in catalytically active systems.

Project description
The position is placed in professor Maria Abrahamsson's research group at the division of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering. Our research concerns light-matter interactions in molecules and materials that are relevant to solar energy conversion. This means that we study light-induced electron and energy transfer processes and what governs them, using optical spectroscopic and electrochemical techniques. The specific project will address a challenge with photocatalytic reactions, namely how one can can control the electron transfer mechanism and thus electron transfer rates, yields and selectivity of product formation. Here we will explore if this control can be achieved using IR-light. You will learn how to use steady state and time resolved spectroscopies, including ultrafast laser spectroscopy, and how to analyze the obtained data.

Major responsibilities
As a PhD student your major responsibility is to carry out research within the above-mentioned project towards your degree. You will work in the lab both to perform experiments and be involved in building new experimental set-ups or modify existing ones. In addition, data analysis, literature studies, and writing of scientific papers and reports are part of your responsibilities. You will work in a team and will therefore be required to collaborate and communicate around project planning, discussion of results and how to present them etc. PhD students are also required to take part in undergraduate teaching.

Contract terms
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years.

Qualifications
To qualify as a PhD student you must have completed a master degree (or equivalent)corresponding to at least 240 higher education credits in chemistry, physics, materials science or nano science by the time that the position start. In addition, experience from experimental work, for example from master degree project work, internship or similar is necessary as is proficiency in written and spoken English. Experience in optical spectroscopic techniques, chemical synthesis, and familiarity with complex instrumentation are considered highly relevant merits.

Chalmers continuously strives to be an attractive employer. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Our offer to you
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the dynamic city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Application procedure
Learn more and apply here: https://www.chalmers.se/en/about-chalmers/Working-at-Chalmers/Vacancies/Pages/default.aspx?rmpage=job&rmjob=9516



Application deadline: 6 June, 2021