PhD Student-nanocomposites based on cellulose

Wallenberg Wood Science Center is seeking a PhD student to study green nanocomposites based on cellulose with placement at KTH, Stockholm, Sweden Wallenberg Wood Science Center is a joint research center established with KTH, Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden and Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden, as participants.The annual budget exceeds 40 MSEK and at least 50 people will participate.The objective is underpinning materials research for utilization of our forests in new products, such as "green" polymers and biocomposite materials.The tree is viewed as a source of chemicals, monomers, biopolymers and fibers.Recent advances in nanotechnology, polymer science, biotechnology and mechanics are being combined with established forest products technologies in a new multidisciplinary research center located in Stockholm and in Gothenburg.Research project The new Wallenberg Center is seeking a PhD student at KTH.There is great public interest to replace synthetic resins with bioplastics from wood.Cellulose is a particularly interesting component of wood, and is in the form of strong nanofibriller which has better mechanical properties than most plastics.The PhD student will apply the recent advances in research on nano-structured materials.Your responsibilities will include producing and analyzing new biocomposite from wood cellulosa, where the unique physical properties of the cellulose nanofibriller will be used.You will be participating in international conferences and at meetings at Chalmers in Gothenburg, which means some travel; and working together with chemists and graduate students from other disciplines.You will also be working in the laboratory and creating your own schedule. Qualifications MSc with a focus on materials science/polymers, engineering physics, mechanical engineering or similar areas.Practical experience such a summer job in the laboratory or similar is preferred.Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is a must.We are looking for candidates with an innovative way of thinking and specialist knowledge.You are performance-oriented and have the ability to work hard and put time, energy and commitment into your work.Most importantly you must be able to work independently. Employment Form of employment: Time limited position Starting date: Immediately Application This recruitment is performed by Academic Work Recruitment, but you will be employed by Wallenberg Wood Science Center.Specify ref JJ 35492 and K-2009-0165 in the subject line.The application shall include curriculum vitae, final grades, a short description of future professional goals and interests, and names of 2 references.