Postdoc in polymer physics and electric insulation of polyolefins

Job description

The project is about obtaining an understanding of how the morphology and molecular structure of polyolefins (polyethylene and polypropylene) affect their electrical properties. Polyolefins are used as electrical insulation in high voltage cables and power capacitors. As increasingly higher demands are placed on the insulation, e.g. as higher voltages are sought after in high-voltage cables, it becomes increasingly important to understand how the structure of the materials should look in order to achieve maximum electrical insulation. In this project, a number of polyolefins with widely different morphologies will be studied and linked to their electrical properties. The project is part of a larger project financed by the Swedish Energy Agency as well as NKT HV Cables and Hitachi Energy. The sub-project will be carried out in close collaboration with the other sub-project, which is theoretical (with MD and DFT simulation). The experimental results generated will be used to develop models for electrical conduction in semi-crystalline polyolefin systems. The sub-project will involve processing steps and characterization (with e.g. electron microscopy, IR and X-ray spectroscopy and calorimetry). FEM will be used in the model building, which will also be a part of the sub-project.

What we offer

• A position at a leading technical university that generates knowledge and skills for a sustainable future
• Engaged and ambitious colleagues along with a creative, international and dynamic working environment
• Work in Stockholm, in close proximity to nature
• Help to relocate and be settled in Sweden and at KTH

Read more about what it is like to work at KTH

Qualifications

Requirements

• A doctoral degree or an equivalent foreign degree. This eligibility requirement must be met no later than the time the employment decision is made.
• Research experience regarding polymers

The following abilities are assessed in the selection process:

• Research expertise
• Teaching abilities
• Awareness of diversity and equal opportunity issues, with specific focus on gender equality
• Collaborative abilities
• Independence

Great emphasis will be placed on personal skills.

Preferred qualifications

• A doctoral degree or an equivalent foreign degree, obtained within the last three years prior to the application deadline
• Experience in processing polymers and their characterization
• Experience in the characterization of polyolefins
• Experience in modeling polymers, for example FEM

Trade union representatives

You will find contact information to trade union representatives at KTH's webbpage.

To apply for the position

Log into KTH's recruitment system in order to apply for this position. You are the main responsible to ensure that your application is complete according to the ad.

The application must include:

• CV including relevant professional experience and knowledge.
• Copy of diplomas and grades from your previous university studies. Translations into English or Swedish if the original documents have not been issued in any of these languages.
• Brief account of why you want to conduct research, your academic interests and how they relate to your previous studies and future goals. Max two pages long.

Your complete application must be received at KTH no later than the last day of application, midnight CET/CEST (Central European Time/Central European Summer Time).

About the employment

The position offered is for, at the most, two years.

A position as a postdoctoral fellow is a time-limited qualified appointment focusing mainly on research, intended as a first career step after a dissertation.

Others

Striving towards gender equality, diversity and equal conditions is both a question of quality for KTH and a given part of our values.

For information about processing of personal data in the recruitment process please read here.

The position may include security-sensitive activities. To become authorized, you therefore need to pass a possible security check.

We firmly decline all contact with staffing and recruitment agencies and job ad salespersons.

Disclaimer: In case of discrepancy between the Swedish original and the English translation of the job announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.

About KTH

KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm has grown to become one of Europe’s leading technical and engineering universities, as well as a key centre of intellectual talent and innovation. We are Sweden’s largest technical research and learning institution and home to students, researchers and faculty from around the world. Our research and education covers a wide area including natural sciences and all branches of engineering, as well as architecture, industrial management, urban planning, history and philosophy. Read more here