KTH in Stockholm is the largest and oldest technical university in Sweden. No less than one-third of Sweden’s technical research and engineering education capacity at university level is provided by KTH. Education and research spans from natural sciences to all branches of engineering and includes architecture, industrial management and urban planning. There are a total of just over 15,000 first and second level students and more than 1,600 doctoral students. KTH has almost 4,300 employees.

The School of Chemical Science and Engineering includes the areas Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Fibre and Polymer technology. It encompasses both fundamental and applied chemical sciences and seeks sustainable development through scientific excellence. Many research activities are interdisciplinary across the borders from chemistry to materials science, environmental science, biochemistry, biology and medicine. The School offers a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Science and Engineering, Higher Education Diploma in Chemical Engineering and three international Master programs Chemical Engineering for Energy and the Environment, Macromolecular Materials and Molecular Science and Engineering. We cooperate also with the Master programs Energy and Environment, Materials design and Biotechnology.

Project description

Division of Coating technology, Fibre and Polymer Technology, School of Chemical Science and Engineering.

As a PhD-student you will investigate biopolymers, such as hemicelluloses, as an alternative to "green” adhesives.

The project will be performed in close collaboration with other research groups and with industries within the network with the following main objectives:

• Screen a library of possible biopolymers to identify suitable starting materials
• Establish synthetic protocols to modify the biopolymers to obtain required properties
• Elaborate formulation procedures
• Evaluate the candidates in wood adhesive applications according to standard procedures

Eligibility and Assessment Criteria

The potential candidate must have a Master’s degree with a focus on material science, chemistry, polymer technology or a corresponding degree. Prior experience in polymer chemistry / synthesis and renewable materials will be regarded as advantageous when evaluating applicants. The candidate should be highly motivated for conducting scientific research and should have well developed analytical and problem-solving skills.

Employment

Form of employment: Time limited (doctoral student)
Starting date: According to agreement

Application procedure

Application should be sent electronically to Inga Persson, inpe@kth.se 

The application marked with reference number should include the following:

1. CV including education and relevant academic/work experience
2. Official record of transcripts and copy of degree certificate
3. Cover letter (maximum 1 page)

Deadline for application is 2012-03-09
Reference number: K-2012-0078

Contact

Eva Malmström, Professor
Phone: +46 8 790 72 25
mavem@kth.se

Trade Union representative

Lars Abrahamsson, SACO
Phone: +46 8 790 70 58
lars.abrahamsson@ee.kth.se