Staff Scientist

Umeå Universitet · Vollzeit

Umeå universitet, Umeå, Schweden

Umeå University is one of Sweden's largest institutions of higher education, with over 41,500 students and approximately 4,600 employees. The university offers a diverse range of high-quality education programs and world-leading research in several scientific disciplines. It was here that the groundbreaking discovery of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene scissors was made, an achievement that was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry. At Umeå University, everything is close by. Our cohesive campus makes it easy to meet, collaborate, and exchange knowledge, which fosters a dynamic and open culture. The societal transformation and major green investments we are seeing in northern Sweden create enormous opportunities and complex challenges. For Umeå University, this means conducting research about—and within—a society undergoing transformation. It also means delivering education for regions that need to expand quickly and sustainably. This is simply where the future is being created. Interested in learning more? Read more about Umeå University as a workplace. The Department of Physics conducts strong and expanding research with several different focus areas, such as organic electronics, nanotechnology, photonics, space physics, and theoretical physics. The department is part of KBC, the Chemical-Biological Center at Umeå University. We have a strong focus on interdisciplinary research and excellent access to modern instrumentation and analytical infrastructure. The Department of Physics is recruiting a Staff Scientist for a project focused on developing biosensors based on surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy and fluorescence-based methods. The position is a full-time appointment (100%) with a start date of October 16, 2026, or by agreement. Main Responsibilities The project involves developing sensors for detecting biological and chemical markers using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy and fluorescence-based methods. The work tasks primarily include synthesis, characterization, and analysis of materials and sensor components using methods within optics, photonics, and materials science. An important part of the work also involves simulations using commercial software, such as COMSOL. Synthesis work includes coating techniques, thin-film methods, sol-gel methods, spray techniques, and nanoimprinting, several of which are performed in a cleanroom environment. Characterization includes advanced optical measurements of, for example, transmittance, reflectance, absorbance, and other optical properties, as well as analysis using XPS, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, electron microscopy, and surface physics characterization with atomic force microscopy. The fabricated components will be applied in the biosensor field. The responsibilities also include contributing to the research group's other activities. Qualification Requirements We are seeking an engaged and responsible person with strong motivation to develop both as an independent researcher and as a member of a research group. A PhD in physics, materials science, or a closely related field is required. Documented experience with synthesis methods for alloys, metallic films, and nanomaterials is mandatory. This includes experience with thin-film techniques, sol-gel methods, spray techniques, and nanoimprinting. Experience with advanced optical characterization, including measurement of transmittance, reflectance, absorbance, and other optical properties, is highly desirable. Experience with XPS, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, electron microscopy, and surface physics characterization is also desirable. Experience with computer simulation in the field of optics, particularly with COMSOL, is desirable. Experience with biosensors and work in cleanroom environments is also desirable. The applicant must have demonstrated strong ability to work both independently and in close collaboration with others in a research environment. Excellent ability to communicate orally and in writing in English is required. Great emphasis will be placed on personal qualities, particularly collaboration skills, communication skills, analytical ability, initiative, and the ability to work independently. Since the project is conducted in an international research environment, excellent communication skills in English, both verbally and in writing, are required. Application The application should contain: - Cover letter with a brief description of your qualifications, research interests, and motivation for applying (maximum 3 pages). - CV with publication list. - Copies of degree certificates. - Copy of your doctoral dissertation. - Names and contact information for two references. Information For more information, contact Professor Magnus Andersson, [email protected], tel: 090-786 63 36 Applications should be submitted via the e-recruitment system Varbi and must be received by September 22, 2026. Welcome to submit your application! Umeå University aims to offer an equal and inclusive environment where open dialogue between people with different backgrounds and perspectives forms the foundation for learning, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and experiences for this position. To staffing and recruitment agencies and to you who are sales representatives: We respectfully but firmly decline direct contact from staffing and recruitment agencies and sellers of additional job advertisements.