Postdoc position

Postdoc Correlation between small and large scale processing of lignocellulosa

The sustainability challenges posed by plastics, e.g. contribution to green-house gases, disposal in landfill and littering, needs to be solved, as nations head towards circular bioeconomy. FibRe, a VinnEXcellence center (www.chalmers.se/en/centres/FibRe), is developing thermoplastic lignocellulose in a concerted effort by academic and industrial researchers. We are now offering a two year post-doc position with focus on correlation between small and large scale processing. The position is based at Chalmers (division of Applied Chemistry) but the successful candidate will also perform work at KTH and have frequent communication and visits with involved industrial companies.

Project description
This study is a part of a large consortium, FibRe, which is developing cutting edge knowledge on modification, characterisation and processing of lignocellulosic material for its use in plastic-like material. The successful candidate will define key properties of modified lignocellulose, required for its successful processing in traditional process units. The modification will be achieved in collaboration but the correlation between key properties (defined in small scale) and large scale prerequisites, is the responsbility of the successful post-doc. The position is suitable for the person who enjoys working at the interphase of academic research and the industry. Several industrial partners are closely involved.

Information about the division
Applied Chemistry is a division of the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering comprising 12 research groups dealing with applied pursues of both organic and inorganic materials. The 12 research groups work together in a dynamic consensus targeting applications in consumable and specialty products. Our goal is to maintain the high quality of research and implement the same passion to teaching. We are situated at campus Johanneberg in central Gothenburg.

Major responsibilities
Your main responsibilities will be to:
•Ensure communication between all project partners and their stakeholders
•Physically characterise modified lignocellulose through tools only requiring small volumes
•Perform large scale process tests using modified lignocellulose
•Collaborate with PhD student focusing on in-silico prediction of processability of lignocellulosic material.
•Publish the findings in scientific journals and communicate them to the scientific community.

Contract terms
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of two years (1+1).

Qualifications
To qualify for the position of postdoc, we would like you to have a PhD degree in chemistry, physics, engineering, materials science or similar. The degree should generally not be older than three years.

The position is suitable for chemists, physicists, engineers and material scientists. However, a solid level of knowledge of working in a chemistry lab and process environment is required from all applicants.

Mandatory experiences and skills include experimental laboratory work and scientific writing skills.
You should also be proficient in spoken and written English.

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

We offer
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=9591

Application deadline: 30 June, 2021