Assistant Professor in Polymer Technology

Lunds Universitet · Full-time

Sölvegatan 39 A, Lund, Sweden

About the Department of Chemistry The Department of Chemistry at Lund University, Lund Institute of Technology, is seeking an Assistant Professor in Polymer Technology with a focus on polymer chemistry. The successful Assistant Professor will be based at the Center for Analysis and Synthesis (CAS) at the Department of Chemistry and will receive funding for a doctoral student. The Department of Chemistry conducts research across all core areas of chemistry with an overarching theme aimed at supporting the development of a sustainable society. Focus areas include environment, renewable resources, energy, and health. Particularly relevant are molecular design and synthesis as well as understanding the interplay between structure and properties, chemical and physical processes, and function in applications. Advanced characterization of material properties through, for example, electron microscopy and X-ray characterization (especially at the MAX IV synchrotron facility) is also a focal area at the department. Current polymer technology research at CAS is primarily focused on polymers for energy and environment, including polymeric materials for energy storage and energy conversion as well as sustainable bio-based polymers. We synthesize and characterize new monomers, polymer structures, and materials to establish fundamental relationships between structure and properties that are relevant for specific application areas. In our work, we emphasize a creative environment characterized by scientific excellence, diversity, generosity, and freedom. We are now expanding and need to further strengthen our capacity and expertise in polymer chemistry. In this context, the successful candidate can develop new synthetic routes to achieve demanding polymer properties within specific application areas. The choice of research approach, application area, etc., will be determined by the candidate's research interests. Combinations of experimental techniques and theory are particularly welcome. Field of Study Polymer Technology with focus on Polymer Chemistry. Detailed Field Description In-depth knowledge of polymer technology and polymer chemistry is crucial for the development, production, use, and recyclability of the next generation of efficient and environmentally friendly polymeric materials. Polymer technology is an interdisciplinary field that encompasses the chemistry and physics of polymers, polymers from renewable resources, processing and use of polymeric materials, as well as degradation and environmental aspects of polymeric materials. Polymer chemistry encompasses polymerizations and chemical modifications of polymers in combination with polymer characterization to establish fundamental relationships between structure and properties. Duties Appointment as Assistant Professor is a qualifying position intended to enable the holder to develop independence as a researcher and educator. The duties include mainly research and teaching. Within the framework of the appointment, an opportunity will be provided for five weeks of higher education pedagogical training. Duties include: Research within the subject area. Teaching at undergraduate, advanced, and doctoral levels. Supervision of theses and doctoral students. Active work in seeking external research funding. Collaboration with industry and the surrounding society. Administration related to the above duties. Qualifications Eligible for appointment as Assistant Professor is a person who holds a doctorate or has attained equivalent scientific competence. Principally, applicants should hold a doctorate or have attained equivalent competence no more than seven years before the application deadline. However, applicants who obtained their doctorate earlier may also be considered if there are special reasons. Special reasons include leave due to illness, parental leave, or other similar circumstances. Assessment Criteria For appointment as Assistant Professor, the following shall form the basis for assessment of qualifications: Strong ability to develop and conduct high-quality research. Pedagogical ability. Other Requirements Very good knowledge of English, both spoken and written. Extensive documented experience in polymer chemistry, including synthesis and characterization of polymer structure and fundamental properties. Experience from postdoctoral research in a research environment at a university other than the one where the applicant obtained their doctorate. A submitted research plan (1,500–2,000 words) that can form the basis for external funding. Good collaboration skills, initiative, ability to work independently on tasks, and demonstrated interest in leadership. Additional Merits Documented ability to obtain external research funding in competition As part of the application, the applicant must submit a research plan (1,500–2,000 words) that clearly describes the research to be conducted during the appointment within the field of polymer chemistry. The quality of the research plan will be given significant weight in the selection of candidates. Consideration will also be given to how the applicant, through their experience and competence, is assessed to complement and strengthen ongoing research, undergraduate education, and innovation at the department as well as contribute to its future development. About the Position The appointment is fixed-term for 6 years and is full-time. The appointment is time-limited according to 4 chapter 12a § HF. The purpose of the appointment is to provide the lecturer with the opportunity to develop independence as a researcher and to qualify both scientifically and pedagogically to meet the requirements for appointment as Associate Professor. Application Instructions Applications should be written in English. Present your qualifications according to LTH's Academic Merit Portfolio, see link below. Upload as PDF files in the recruitment system. Read more here: http://www.lth.se/jobb/sokalararanstallning/.