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NEWS15 Apr 2021News

Postdoctoral Fellow in Atmospheric Chemistry - Stockholm, Sweden

daunrodeu

Ref. No. SU FV-1199-21

Closing date: 16/05/2021

Postdoctoral Fellow in Atmospheric Chemistry

at the Department of Environmental Science

The Department of Environmental Science is one of the biggest departments at the Faculty of Science. The department consists of four units with more than 170 researchers, teachers, doctoral students and technical/administrative staff from over 30 countries. Research and teaching focuses on chemical contaminants, atmospheric science, biogeochemistry and (eco)toxicology. As an employee at the Department of Environmental Science you will be part of a dynamic environment with research in leading research areas and with a strong international profile.

Project description

There is clear epidemiological evidence that fine particles, which are ubiquitous in ambient air, have a negative effect on human health. However, the mechanisms behind these effects are still poorly understood. Therefore, it is not known which particle properties are the most relevant for causing health effects, leading to large uncertainties regarding the harmfulness of various particle sources. Another complicating factor is the fact that particles constantly undergo both physical and chemical changes in the atmosphere (i.e. aging), which changes their properties with time.

The focus of this project is to understand how chemical and physical changes of airborne particles affect their toxicity. A Potential Aerosol Mass (PAM) reactor will be used to generate aged aerosol samples both in the laboratory and in real world environments. Acellular assays will be used to measure the oxidative potential of the particles, which indicates their potential to generate oxidative stress. In addition, several other analytical techniques will be used to monitor the chemical and physical changes in the particles.

Main responsibilities

The incoming postdoctor will have the opportunity to develop the direction of the research project. The selected candidate will run a PAM reactor to generate aged aerosol samples and characterise these samples using primarily acellular assays to measure their oxidative potential. Further characterisation of the samples may involve e.g. SMPS measurements and mass spectrometry. Interpretation of data and publication of results will also be an important part of the work.

Qualification requirements

Postdoctoral positions are appointed primarily for purposes of research. Applicants are expected to hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent degree from another country.

Assessment criteria

The degree should have been completed no more than three years before the deadline for applications. An older degree may be acceptable under special circumstances, which may involve sick leave, parental leave, clinical attachment, elected positions in trade unions, or similar.

We are looking for a highly motivated post doc with a background in Atmospheric Science, Analytical Chemistry or a similar subject relevant to the project. In the appointment process, special attention will be given to research skills; the selection is based primarily on scientific excellence in relevant fields. Experience with practical work in the laboratory and/or field is required.

Proven experience with oxidation flow reactors (e.g. PAM reactors) and methods for the determination of oxidative potential is advantageous. Previous experience with analytical method development, aerosol characterisation and good skills in statistics are regarded as an asset. Skills in scientific programming (e.g. Matlab), mass spectrometry or experimental toxicology are considered additional merits.

Applicants should be able to work both individually and collaboratively and must have a good command of the English language

Terms of employment

The position involves full-time employment for a maximum of two years, with the possibility of extension under special circumstances. Start date as per agreement.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact

Further information about the position can be obtained from Sarah Steimer, Assistant professor, telephone: +46 8 674 7171, Sarah.Steimer@aces.su.se.

Union representatives

Ingrid Lander (Saco-S), telephone: +46 708 16 26 64, saco@saco.su.se, Alejandra Pizarro Carrasco (Fackförbundet ST/Lärarförbundet), telephone: +46 8 16 34 89, alejandra@st.su.se, and seko@seko.su.se (SEKO).

Application

Apply for the position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

Please include the following information with your application

  • Your contact details and personal data

  • Your highest degree

  • Your language skills

  • Contact details for 2–3 references

and, in addition, please include the following documents

  • Cover letter

  • CV – degrees and other completed courses, work experience and a list of publications

  • Copy of PhD diploma

  • Letters of recommendation (no more than 3 files)

  • Publications in support of your application (no more than 3 files).

The instructions for applicants are available at: How to apply for a position.

You are welcome to apply!

Stockholm University contributes to the development of sustainable democratic society through knowledge, enlightenment and the pursuit of truth.

Closing date: 16/05/2021

URL to this pagehttps://www.su.se/english/about-the-university/work-at-su/available-jobs?rmpage=job&rmjob=14669&rmlang=UK

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source

postdoc Chemistry