Umeå University, Faculty of Science and Technology

Umeå University is one of Sweden’s largest higher education institutions with over 37,000 students and about 4,700 employees. The University offers a diversity of high-quality education and world-leading research in several fields. Notably, the groundbreaking discovery of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing tool, which was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, was made here. At Umeå University, everything is close. Our cohesive campuses make it easy to meet, work together and exchange knowledge, which promotes a dynamic and open culture.

The ongoing societal transformation and large green investments in northern Sweden create enormous opportunities and complex challenges. For Umeå University, conducting research about – and in the middle of – a society in transition is key. We also take pride in delivering education to enable regions to expand quickly and sustainably. In fact, the future is made here.

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Senior Research Engineer - Deep Eutectics/Switchable Ionic Liquids

The Department of Chemistry is now offering a senior research engineer position within the project aiming at developing the concept of switchable ionic liquids and deep eutectics applied in various applications ranging from the fractionation of lignocellulose and synthesis of chemicals. The employment is full-time and until further notice. The last day to apply is 25 June 2021.

Project description
The project aims to contribute to the understanding of mechanisms behind the various transformations of biomass upon fractionation and dissolution processes. It’s carried out in close collaboration with the researchers from Wallenberg Wood Science Center (wwsc.se), the Bio4Energy consortium (www.bio4energy.se/) and the Laboratory of Industrial Chemistry and Reaction Engineering (www.abo.fi/institution/tekniskkemi). In addition, we aim at collaborating with other research groups within the domain of chemical engineering, catalysis and reaction engineering, in Sweden and elsewhere. All necessary equipment infrastructure for fractionation, synthesis, characterization and analysis are available at the Department of Chemistry, Umeå University or at the collaborating universities like Åbo Akademi University in Finland. Within the project we interact with researchers and with other research projects within Technical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry (www.chemistry.umu.se/forskning/teknisk-kemi/). Our research is also strongly integrated with the research carried out by the industry, like the SP Processum Initiative circle in Örnsköldsvik (www.processum.se).

We offer now a senior research engineer position within the project aiming at developing further the concept of novel fractionation processes and chemical synthesis performed with the help of eutectics and switchable ionic liquids.

Working tasks
The working tasks encompass development, synthesis and characterization of relevant deep eutectics and switchable ionic liquids for fractionation of lignocellulose (particularly wood) and chemicals. The fraction thus obtained can be processed aiming at e.g. synthesis of platform chemicals or, at obtaining components for composite materials. Hereby one also needs to carry out studies with the help of flow reactors with the aim to produce various chemical streams of interest in regard to sustainable economy. Consequently, the research involves elements such as rational experimental design, MS-analysis, identification of reaction products and quantification and optimization to yield tomorrow’s chemicals, fuels and materials.

Competence requirements
A PhD degree or a foreign degree that is deemed equivalent in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Forest Chemistry, Materials Science within chemistry or equivalent is required. A solid background and knowledge of the physical, chemical and materials science techniques that are relevant for the use of ionic liquids processes is required.

Excellent and documented knowledge in advanced 2D NMR is a must. Documented practical skills encompassing the synthesis and characterization of deep eutectics or ionic liquids for synthesis of chemicals and fractionation of lignocellulose as well as applications of fractions obtained is a requirement as well as knowledge in analysis of fractionation of lignocellulose (carbohydrate analysis etc.). Further, experience in the operation of continuous flow reactors in laboratory scale is demanded.

Experience in terms of relevant analysis methods in chemical technologies (i.e. GC-MS and HPLC etc.) is required. You should be strongly motivated and interested in learning and developing new skills and capable of operating in an international environment. The applicant must also have the capability of writing scientific publications and reports in English, very good command of the English language, both written and spoken, is therefore required.

Knowledge of the Swedish language is a merit. International post-doctoral experience is a merit and we hope that you have documented experience about research concerning use and development of fractionation processes with the aid of deep eutectics and switchable ionic liquids in the spirit of ‘green chemistry’.

The employment is full-time and starts at a date decided in agreement between the two parties.

Application
A complete application includes:

  • a cover letter summarizing your qualifications, research interests and motives for applying (max 2 pages)
  • a Curriculum Vitae with a publication list
  • copies of your PhD thesis and relevant publications
  • copies of exam certificates or equivalent
  • names and contact details of 2 to 3 references.

Last application date is 25 June 2021. Applications must be submitted via our e-recruitment system. Log on and apply via the button at the bottom of the page.
For further information, please contact Prof. Jyri-Pekka Mikkola, +46-(0)90-786 5000,
jyri-pekka.mikkola@chem.umu.se 

We look forward to receiving your application!

 

The Chemical Biological Centre (KBC, www.kbc.umu.se) at Umeå University is a creative and interactive environment, comprising six departments and two research units, with direct access to excellent instrumentation and facilities. The Department of Chemistry has about 200 employees and the department carries out research and education and, at the same time, interacts with the surrounding society. For more information, see www.chemistry.umu.se.

Type of employment Permanent position
Contract type Full time
Number of positions 1
Full-time equivalent 100%
City Umeå
County Västerbottens län
Country Sweden
Reference number AN 2.2.1-897-21
Contact
  • Jyri-Pekka Mikkola, 090-7865284
Union representative
  • SACO, 090-786 53 65
  • SEKO, 090-786 52 96
  • ST, 090-786 54 31
Published 03.Jun.2021
Last application date 25.Jun.2021 11:59 PM CEST

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