Postdoctoral researcher in Chemistry

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher in Chemistry for a fixed-term position at the School of Science and Technology.

Subject area

The subject area for this position is Chemistry.

Background

The research center Man-Technology-Environment (MTM) at the School of Science and Technology, Örebro University, conducts well-established research within Biogeosphere Dynamics, Environment and Health, and Ecosystem Ecology. MTM is a recognized European leader in environmental and health-related research, which pioneered scientific methods for analyzing the risk potential of a broad spectrum of toxicants for humans and the environment. The center employs high-end technologies to understand molecular and adverse effects, assess toxic potential, and monitor the fate of chemicals. MTM operates advanced laboratories where samples of soil, air, water, food, and biological materials undergo analysis for heavy metals, persistent organic pollutants, and emerging chemicals. This research extends to various contexts, including surface waters, contaminated sites, air quality, recycling supply chains, and wastewater. Our environmental research strives to identify chemical threats and opportunities, providing understanding, sustainable solutions, and information for society and business.

This postdoctoral researcher position is connected to the SEASON project that aims to investigate how climate change will affect the risks associated with sediments contaminated with organic and inorganic pollutants. For this, it is essential to simulate and modify critical environmental parameters, such as pH and temperature, under controlled laboratory conditions, considering the complex and dynamic interactions between abiotic and biotic factors at the sediment-water interphase. The project is conducted in close collaboration with industrial partners. The results of the project will be particularly relevant for these partners, as it contributes to their knowledge enhancement, competence building, and, consequently, increased competitiveness in their respective businesses. The project involves six business partners: Eurofins, Jordnära Miljökonsult, Sellén & Filipovic, Tyrens, Wescon Miljökonsult, and WSP.

The SEASON project aims to identify substances responsible for (eco-)toxicological effects in environmental samples and to understand their adverse outcomes, particularly with a focus on PFAS and metals. As part of the interdisciplinary project, the research will explore how climate change influences the distribution and bioavailability of contaminants at the sediment-water interface. This postdoctoral researcher position is dedicated to studying mechanism-specific and molecular effects of contaminated sediment samples under changing environmental conditions, working closely with industry partners.

Duties and responsibilities

The appointment as a postdoctoral researcher is intended to enable persons who have recently been awarded their doctoral degree to consolidate and develop primarily their research skills.

The primary responsibilities include leading and supervising subprojects related to the impacts of climate change on PFAS and metals. The postdoctoral researcher will investigate how changes in environmental conditions affect the distribution, bioavailability, and speciation of these contaminants, examining interactions between abiotic (sediment) and biotic (fish) components. The role also involves managing and maintaining advanced analytical instruments in a well-equipped laboratory, ensuring their optimal performance for research. Additionally, the researcher will supervise students, provide guidance in research activities, and contribute to teaching within the department. Effective communication with researchers, industrial partners, and stakeholders is crucial to disseminate research findings.

Qualifications

Those qualified for appointment as a postdoctoral researcher are applicants who at the time of appointment hold a doctoral degree or have a degree from abroad deemed to correspond to a doctoral degree. Applicants with doctoral degrees that have been awarded no more than 3 years prior to the application deadline are to be considered first. The applicant may not previously have held a position as a postdoctoral researcher for more than one year in the same subject and at the same higher education institution. The position is for a term of at least 2 years initially but may be extended for a further 1 year. If the person during the period of employment has been on parental leave, the period of employment is to be extended by the corresponding number of days. The period of employment may also be extended in the event of absence due to illness.

Assessment criteria

A basis for the assessment is the applicant’s ability to disseminate information and communicate; collaborate and engage with the wider community; and facilitate utilisation of the university’s research. In addition, the applicant’s suitability for the position will be assessed. Suitability refers to the applicant demonstrating the personal qualities required to successfully perform the duties and responsibilities at hand, the ability to cooperate with other members of staff, and the ability to contribute to the development of the operations.

Particular attention is to be paid to the applicant’s prospects of contributing to the future development of both research and education. Importance is also attached to a demonstrated ability and ambition to embark on a career within academia.

Successful candidate should have a Ph.D. in Chemistry or a related field, with proven experience in sample preparation, chemical analysis, and data interpretation of organic and inorganic contaminants in water and sediment samples. Extensive practical knowledge of organic analytical chemistry, including mass spectrometric analysis, and multivariate statistics is essential. Experience from ecotoxicological studies is also a merit. Proficiency in advanced analytical techniques such as ICP-MS, LC-MS/MS, Q-TOF, and combustion ion chromatography is highly valued, along with experience working in interdisciplinary research environments, particularly those focusing on environmental and ecotoxicological issues. A strong interest in understanding the effects of climate change on contaminant behavior at the sediment-water interface, including changes in speciation and bioavailability, is important. Proficiency in written and spoken English is a requirement.

Information

This is a full-time position for two (or three) years. At Örebro University, salary depends on the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience.

For more information about the position, contact Leo Yeung, +46 19 30 1421, email: Leo.Yeung@oru.se , Steffen Keiter (project leader), +46 19 30 3604, email: steffen.keiter@oru.se, or Ingrid Ericson Jogsten (Head of Division of Natural Sciences), +46 19 30 1209, email: ingrid.ericson@oru.se.

At Örebro University, we expect each member of staff to be open to development and change; take responsibility for their work and performance; demonstrate a keen interest in collaboration and contribute to development; as well as to show respect for others by adopting a constructive and professional approach.

Örebro University actively pursues equal opportunities and gender equality as well as a work environment characterised by openness, trust and respect. We value the qualities that diversity adds to our operations.

Application

The application is made online. Click the button “Apply” to begin the application procedure.

For the application to be complete, the following electronic documents must be included:

• Covering letter, outlining how you believe you can contribute to the continued development of Örebro University
• CV with a relevant description of your overall qualifications and experience
• Account of research qualifications and experience
• Copies of relevant course/degree certificates and references verifying eligibility and criteria met
• Relevant scientific publications (maximum of 10 and in full-text format)

Only documents written in Swedish, English, Norwegian and Danish can be reviewed.
More information for applicants will be found on our career site: https://www.oru.se/english/career/available-positions/applicants-and-external-experts/

The application deadline is October 30, 2024. We look forward to receiving your application!

As we have already made our choices in terms of external collaboration partners and marketing efforts for this recruitment process, we decline any contact with recruitment agencies and advertisers.

As directed by the National Archives of Sweden (Riksarkivet), we are required to deposit one file copy of the application documents, excluding publications, for a period of two years after the appointment decision has gained legal force.