PhD student within dissolution and chemical modification of cellulose

Information about the research
The Forest Products and Chemical Engineering is a broad biorefinery research team relying on knowledge of chemistry and chemical engineering involved in current and developing pulping/biorefinery processes and a very lively interdisciplinary collaborations within Chalmers, Sweden and internationally.

Close collaboration with Organic chemistry, Chemical engineering design, Polymer technology and Surface chemistry at Chalmers were established already in 2005 with the joint project initiated by the pulp producer Södra and involve today also the research institute Swerea and Lund University. Furthermore the presence of the Wallenberg Wood Science Center at the division provides close interaction with the KTH and SU. Engagement in the Mistra Future Fashion project coordinated by SP should also be mentioned as it offers close interaction with the textile industry actors and provides good insights in the textile recycling efforts. As being interdisciplinary in its nature, the present project is expected to benefit from these interactions.

Major responsibilities
The main responsibilities of the PhD-candidate, together with the supervisors, will be to gain a fundamental understanding for cellulose-carbon dioxide interactions mediated by a specific group of catalysts/additivies in the cold NaOH(aq) dissolution system and based on that develop strategies for improved dissolution and regeneration of cellulose from this system.

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

Qualifications
The PhD-candidate should have an education on MSc level in Chemical Engineering, Biothechnology or equivalent. MSc thesis related to organic chemistry, cellulose technology and pulping/biorefinery processes with focus on cellulose materials and/or master level courses in Cellulose technology, Biorefinery and Organic chemistry is seen as meritorious. It is meritorious with experience in organic syntesis.

To be succesfull in this position you need to be highly motivated and have an innovative way of thinking. You also need the ability to be independent but enjoy work in team.

The undergraduates are normally taught in Swedish, although the graduate level teaching is in English. Also the project involves international colaborations and thus fluent english is required. Applicants who do not have Swedish as native language should be able to teach in Swedish after two years of employment.

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

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20170009 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as pdf-files, as below:


• Application: (Please name the document: APPLICATION, Family name, reference number)
- CV
- Other, for example previous employments or leadership qualifications and positions of trust.
- Two references that we can contact.
• Personal letter/Qualifications: (Please name the document as: QUALIFICATIONS, family name, ref. number) 
- 1-3 pages where you introduce yourself and present your qualifications.
- Previous research fields and main research results.
- Future goals and research focus. Are there any specific projects and research issues you are primarily interested in?
• Other:
- 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: 20 Febryary, 2017

For questions, please contact:
Assistant professor Merima Hasani, merima.hasani@chalmers.se, phone: +46 704 532 485

*** 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!