PhD student position in computer assisted surfactant synthesis

Information about the research/the project/the division
The Division of Applied Chemistry comprises about 90 researchers, including PhD students, who work on surface chemistry, polymers and catalysis.

The research carried out at Applied Chemistry focuses on energy, materials design, nanotechnology and catalysis. A strong emphasis is put on novel surfactants and investigations of surfactant-based formulations such as microemulsions or emulsions. In recent years, activities related to exploit colloids/polymers interactions, in collaboration with industry, have gained momentum with a focus on materials derived from renewable resources, and on the development of environmentally friendly technology.

The research that will be conducted in this project aims to use machine learning to rationalize surfactant synthesis path using natural building blocks and to overcome one of the major problems of using natural building blocks, i.e. their inherent polydispersity. This heterogeneity limits the production of material with well-defined surface properties, as required for specific applications.

The project will be conducted in a research environment where surface chemistry occupies a pivotal role, often linked to new approaches to study physiochemistry. (for more information on the group and other research activities, see https://bordesr.wixsite.com/bordesresearch).  

Major responsibilities
The main responsibility of the PhD candidate will be to pursue his/her doctoral degree by completing Chalmers requirements and by carrying out the research related to the development of methodologies to utilize machine learning in surfactant synthesis. As a PhD student, the candidate will have to take care of other duties (approx. 10% of your time, mandatory, including teaching). Communication of the results of the work at conferences and in peer-reviewed journals is also expected.

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

Qualifications
To qualify to this position the candidate must hold a Master degree in chemistry or chemical engineering or equivalent and have experience in studies related to surface chemistry. In addition, a general knowledge of spectroscopy and of the techniques related to the study of surface properties constitutes a strong asset. Skills in English (written and oral) are mandatory.

Furthermore, the candidate should appreciate to work experimentally and with theoretical tools from the perspective of physical chemistry.

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
The application should be marked with Ref 20200125 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as pdf-files, as below:

CV: (Please name the document: CV, Family name, Ref. number)
• CV
• Other, for example previous employments or leadership qualifications and positions of trust.
• Two references that we can contact.

Personal letter: (Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, Ref. number)
1-3 pages where you:
• Introduce yourself
• Describe your previous research fields and main research results
• Describe your future goals and future research focus

Other documents:
• Copies of bachelor and/or master’s thesis.
• Attested copies and transcripts of completed education, grades and other certificates, eg. TOEFL test results.

Please use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. The files may be compressed (zipped).

Application deadline: 10th of April - 2020

For questions, please contact:
Dr. Romain Bordes
bordes@chalmers.se
+46 31 772 29 76

Information about the department:
Chemistry and Chemical Engineering is the largest department at Chalmers and covers a large array of research from basic to applied. The fields of interest extend from DNA-research and biomaterials, solar cells and fuels, high temperature corrosion, and catalysis. The Department is heavily committed to teaching at the undergraduate, graduate, as well as postgraduate level in these areas. We have approximately 300 employees, divided into four research and one administrative division. We are situated at campus Johanneberg in the middle of Gothenburg. Our vision is “Through curiosity and knowledge towards a sustainable world”.

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 
   



Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our eight Areas of Advance; Building Futures, Energy, Information & Communication Technology, Life Science, Materials Science, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!