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.
The Department of Chemistry is opening a PhD position in Chemistry with a specialization in in industrial chemistry, material science, Chemical Engineering or any related field. The thesis project will focus on developing a new approach for recycling lithium ion batteries. The position is for four years of doctoral studies, including participation in research and postgraduate courses. The last day to apply is 3 July 2024. Starting date is September 1, 2024 or by agreement.
Project description and tasks
Our research group at the Nordic Membrane Laboratory, Umeå University, is dedicated to designing and synthesizing innovative materials and methods to advance the field of separation science. In collaboration with Toyota Motor Europe (TME), we are pleased to offer a PhD position focused on developing a novel approach to recycling lithium-ion batteries. This interdisciplinary project provides a unique opportunity to engage in a spectrum of activities including recycling, separation, re-manufacturing, and testing of lithium-ion battery components. As a PhD candidate, you will benefit from access to state-of-the-art recycling, manufacturing and testing instruments, guaranteeing a comprehensive, hands-on research experience. You will be co-supervised by academic expert from Umeå University and industry specialists from TME. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to spend time at TME facilities, where you can exchange ideas and actively participate in the recycling process. We invite you to apply and contribute to this innovative and impactful research initiative.
Qualifications
To be admitted for studies at third-cycle level you are required to have completed a second-cycle level degree, or completed course requirements of at least 240 ECTS credits, of which at least 60 ECTS credits are at second-cycle level or have an equivalent education from abroad, or equivalent qualifications.
To fulfil the specific entry requirements to be admitted for studies at third-cycle level in chemistry, you are required to have completed first-cycle courses of at least 90 ECTS credits within the field of chemistry or another subject considered to be directly relevant to the specialization in question. Of those 90 ECTS credits, at least 15 ECTS credits shall have been acquired at second-cycle level within the specialization or an equivalent subject.
Additional required qualifications are:
Proficiency in both written and spoken English, along with experience in ion batteries, recycling, filtration, membranes, and process design.
Merits are:
Prior experience in recycling ion batteries, manufacturing battery cells, and testing ion batteries.
Creativity, highly independent, and possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Consideration will also be given to collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing doctoral studies.
About the employment
The position is intended to result in a doctoral degree. The main task of the PhD student is to pursue their doctoral studies, including participation in research and doctoral courses. The duties can include teaching and other departmental work (up to 20%). The employment is limited to the equivalent of four years of full-time (48 months) or up to five years for teaching part-time. Salary is set in accordance with the established salary levels for PhD positions. The employment starts 1 September,2024 or according to agreement.
As employees at Umeå University PhD students are granted social benefits such as parental leave, holiday leave, and occupational health services. Read more about the benefits of being an employee at Umeå University here: https://www.umu.se/en/work-with-us/benefits/.
Application
You apply via our e-recruitment system Varbi. Log in and apply via the button at the bottom of the page. The deadline for applications is 3 July 2024.
The application, written in English or Swedish, should include:
a cover letter with a brief description of why you are applying for the position, and how your qualifications and research interests are relevant to the doctoral project described above (no more than 2 pages),
a curriculum vitae, with a publication list
copies of degree certificates, diplomas or equivalent, including documentation of completed academic courses, grades obtained, and other certificates of relevance to the described project,
copies of student theses on advance level or other publications
contact information for at least two reference persons.
Further information
Further information is provided by Associate Professor Naser Tavajohi, e-mail: naser.tavajohi@umu.se.
Welcome with your application!
About us
The Department of Chemistry is one of the largest departments within the Faculty of Science and Technology with approximately 200 employees and strong and expanding research. The Department has four major research areas: Biological Chemistry, IBEAM, Organic chemistry and Technical Chemistry. We are also a strong partner in the KBC, Chemical-Biological Center. Information about the postgraduate education can be found on the Faculty of Science and Technology website: www.umu.se/en/faculty-of-science-and-technology/education/doctoral-studies/chemistry/. For more information about working at Umeå University, https://www.umu.se/en/work-with-us/.
Umeå University wants to offer an equal environment where open dialogue between people with different backgrounds and perspectives lay the foundation for learning, creativity and development. We welcome people with different backgrounds and experiences to apply for the current employment.
We kindly decline offers of recruitment and advertising help.
