Research Specialist in Polymer Technology

The division of Applied Chemistry is looking for a research specialist who is highly knowledgeable in the area of polymer processing and has experience in working with wood-based materials, polymer blends and composites. A number of the division's research projects focus on the sustainable use of plastics and new materials from wood for applications ranging from pharmaceuticals, health and electronics to energy harvesting, storage and transport. A common denominator across all projects is the ability of polymeric materials to transport ions and/or electronic charge as well the rheological and mechanical properties. The role of the research specialist will be to support ongoing projects in the area of polymer science and technology, assist in the development of our long term research goals, and to preserve working knowledge.

Information about the division
The research specialist will be employed at the division of Applied Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering. The research specialist will be associated with the research groups of both Christian Müller (40%) and Anette Larsson (30%). Further, common duties for the good of the division will contribute to 30% of the working time. The position is permanent. The position is not a faculty position nor a tenure track position. The specialist is not expected to become an independent principal investigator.

Major responsibilities
The role of the researcher will be (1) to support the research activities in the area of polymer science and technology, (2) to assist in the development of the long term research goals, (3) to ensure that working knowledge is preserved across generations of PhD students, (4) to co-supervise PhD students, (5) to support collaborations with industry and academic partners, (6) to assist with outreach activities, and (7) to operate and maintain critical polymer processing and characterization equipment and labs. Minor teaching opportunities will also be offered, but not as the course responsible.

At the division, duties will include the management and safety of polymer processing and characterization labs, as well as maintenance of polymer characterization equipment (e.g. DSC, TGA, DMA, rheometer, SEC) and training of new users.

Contract terms
Full-time permanent employment. 

Qualifications
The successful candidate has a PhD (or is close to completing a PhD) in a relevant topic such as polymer science and technology, or chemistry/materials science with a focus on polymer science. Mandatory experience and skills are (1) expertise in polymer processing, including compounding and extrusion, (2) expertise in the area of polymer blends and composites (e.g. with carbon nanotubes, nanocellulose), and (3) expertise in materials chemistry & polymer chemistry.

Research experience (besides the PhD studies) in academia and industry is a merit. Further merits are expetise in (1) electrical engineering, (2) Labview-type as well as database programming, (3) organic/polymer synthesis, (4) fibre & textile research, and (5) electroactive polymers.

You need to be able to communicate fluently in English. Further, it is a merit if you can communicate in Swedish.

As a person, you need to be personally mature and enjoy hands-on experimental work, which can sometimes be very advanced, while at other times lab maintenance and support tasks need to be done. An ability to remain calm despite having a lot of things that need to be done is desirable. You should enjoy working by yourself, but also function well in close collaboration with others. You need to be service minded and willing to help others with their research.

We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20220101 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as pdf-files, as below:

CV: (Please name the document as: CV, Surname, Ref.number) including:
• CV, include complete list of publications
• 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 experience with lab management
• Describe your experience with polymer science and technology 
• Describe your future goals

Other documents:
• Attested copies of completed education, grades and other certificates.

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

Application deadline: 19 April 2022. Interviews may be conducted on a continuous basis. Therefore, please submit your application prior to the application deadline.

Read more and apply here: https://www.chalmers.se/sv/om-chalmers/Arbeta-pa-Chalmers/lediga-tjanster/Sidor/default.aspx?rmpage=job&rmjob=10294&rmlang=SE



*** 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 six Areas of Advance; Energy, Health Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Materials Science, 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!