PhD position in Applied Physics - ,

The Department of Applied Physics and Electronics (https://www.umu.se/en/department-of-applied-physics-and-electronics/) conducts strong research in areas such as energy technology, biomedical engineering and applied optics. We announce a PhD position in applied physics, with a focus on laser spectroscopy and novel biomass combustion processes. Last day to apply is January 18, 2023. Starting date is April 1, 2023 or as agreed.

Project description
The Applied Optics group (https://www.umu.se/en/research/groups/als/) at Umeå University is looking for a PhD student interested in performing research on oxy-fuel combustion of solid biomass using advanced analytical techniques. Combustion of solid biomass together with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) has the potential to drastically reduce carbon dioxide emissions from renewable heat and electricity production. Oxy-fuel combustion produces a flue gas consisting of highly concentrated carbon dioxide, which can be directly compressed at low cost for permanent storage. The objective of the project is to acquire the essential knowledge to implement BECCS in the energy system. The PhD student will further develop and use optical sensors to perform systematic experimental studies of solid biomass oxy-fuel combustion in laboratory- and pilot-scale reactors. Concurrently, the PhD student will be involved in process modelling. Key issues to address include process stability, the gas- and solid-phase combustion chemistry in a carbon dioxide-rich atmosphere, and flue gas purity.

The project is conducted in close collaboration with researchers at RISE Piteå, as well as the Thermochemical Energy Conversion Laboratory and the Chemical Biological Centre (KBC) at Umeå University. Opportunities for cooperation with the Swedish industrial sector and international research groups are foreseen.

Qualifications
Prerequisites to be admitted to the postgraduate education include 240 ECTS credits of higher education studies, of which 60 ECTS credits should be on an advanced (master) level. Applicants who in some other system either within Sweden or abroad have acquired largely equivalent skills are also eligible. The requirements must be fulfilled at the time of admission to postgraduate education and need not be met at the time of application.

To fulfil the specific entry requirements to be admitted for studies at third-cycle level in applied physics, the applicant is required to have completed courses of at least 120 credits within the field of physics. Candidates are expected to have a degree on advanced level in engineering physics, physics, chemistry or other closely related subject area considered to be relevant for the third-cycle studies. Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory.

Knowledge in atomic and molecular spectroscopy, and experience in experimental work with laser spectroscopy and combustion processes will be considered a merit. Expertise in programming (e.g., MATLAB, LabVIEW), optics, electronics, data acquisition and numerical simulations is beneficial.

We are looking for a highly motivated, goal-oriented person, who is be able to work both independently and in an interdisciplinary research team. The project includes handling of chemicals, high-power lasers, and combustion processes, which implies that carefulness and high security awareness are important.

Other desired qualifications
Regardless of the background, the candidate should have a strong interest in applying physical and chemical analysis methods in energy technology and thermal process chemistry.

Terms of employment
The employment is expected to result in a dissertation and a doctoral degree. The main assignment for the doctoral student is thus to be active in research, attend doctoral courses, and possibly participate in teaching of courses at undergraduate level. The employment is limited to four years at full time studies or up to five years if teaching or other departmental work is performed. The salary is fixed according to the established salary level for doctoral students at Umeå University.

Application
Your application should be written in English (preferably) or Swedish and must include:

• a cover letter with a brief description of your qualifications, research interests and motivation for applying, and your contact details (max. 2 pages)
• a curriculum vitae (CV),
• authenticated copies of relevant degree diplomas and other certificates
• a list of academic courses with grades
• copies of your master thesis and any publications you authored or co-authored (if applicable)

The application should be submitted via the e-recruitment system Varbi, latest 2023-01-18. 

Information
The employment is full-time for 48 months.

Starting date: April 1, 2023, or according to agreement.

For more information contact Dr. Florian Schmidt (Associate professor), phone +46-(0)90-786 7611, florian.schmidt@umu.se

 We are looking forward to receiving your application!