Postdoctoral position in the Bioproduct Chemistry group: Aalto University is a new university with over a century of experience. Created from a high-profile merger between three leading universities in Finland – the Helsinki School of Economics, Helsinki University of Technology and the University of Art and Design Helsinki – Aalto University opens up new possibilities for strong multidisciplinary education and research. The university has 20 000 students and a staff of 5 000 including 370 professors.The Bioproduct Chemistry group is looking for a motivated postdoctoral scientist in the area of surface chemistry of natural polymers.
The research in the group is dedicated to replace fossil-oil based materials by renewable biomaterials from natural resources, such as forest biomass. We strive for a more sustainable use of natural resources by increasing the use of renewable materials and developing energy efficient solutions. The Bioproduct group conduct interdisciplinary research on bio-based material science and surface chemistry of lignocellulosics. Efforts are laid on finding novel application possibilities for the main plant polymers; cellulose, lignin and hemicellulose. The approach to reach these goals is to focus on fundamental insight in surface chemistry of biomaterials, with a special focus on interaction forces. Current research projects are on lignin nanoparticles, nanofibrillated cellulose, biomimetic hydrogels for medical applications and surface modification of wood.
The group is well supplied with facilities for chemical analysis, surface analysis, adsorption, and particle size and charge analysis. Advanced use of Atomic force Microscopy (AFM) is a common theme in all research efforts in the group. Direct surface force and friction force measurements, high resolution imaging of lignocellulosic materials in their natural environment, and combining AFM imaging with confocal Raman microscopy are research methods in use. In addition to these, the most used techniques are QCM-D, XPS and SPR.
Depending on the interest and expertise of the candidate he/she will be working in the projects on lignin nanoparticles, biomimetic hydrogels for medical applications or surface modification of wood. Strong knowledge in chemistry is a prerequisite. Experience in use of surface sensitive techniques, knowledge in surface chemistry, lignin chemistry, pharmacy or biochemistry are assets.
For more information regarding the position please contact:
Associate Professor Monika Österberg, monika.osterberg@aalto.fi,
ResearcherID: C-3929-2013
How to Apply: Please apply through our electronic recruitment system (link below). Applications should be sent no later than 3.8.2015. Your application should include the following attachments: CV, cover letter, a list of publications, names and contact details of references.