项目介绍

2025年1月24日

Do you want to help shape the future of sustainable materials? We are looking for a dedicated postdoctoral researcher to develop bio-adhesives and additives that meet both sustainability goals and industrial demands in the wood composite industry. In this project, you will have the opportunity to combine cutting-edge expertise in polymer science with practical solutions for a greener future. If you have a strong research background and a passion for innovation, this could be the next step in your academic career!

About the position

The strive for sustainability and the increasingly harsh regulations against fossil-based compounds are driving the innovation scene in the wood panel industry and pushing towards developing alternative bio-adhesives and additives. However, these materials suffer from several issues that hinder their industrial usage. Natural binders such as starches, lignin, and proteins are generally not reactive enough to meet the requirements in applications. Although many potential chemical compounds can be used to modify or crosslink the natural binders, there is a lack of knowledge of how the modification is related to the performance or whether they are too toxic or fossil fuel-based. Water repellents based on bio-based materials also show similar challenges.

The aim of this project is to collect and translate novel research for developing high-performing bio-adhesives and additives for future, more sustainable, and fully recyclable wood composites.

Your profile

As postdoctoral appointments are career-developing positions for junior researchers, we are primarily looking for candidates with a doctoral degree that is a maximum of three years at the end of the application period and in one of the following areas: material science, polymer science and technology, chemistry, chemical engineering, wood science, or related disciplines. Experience in wood adhesives testing and manufacturing of wood composites at the laboratory is welcome. Previous experiences in using analytical instruments are desirable. Fluent English language, both in writing and speaking is required.

We are looking for a highly motivated individual who is interested in a continued academic career in polymer science and technology for application in the wood industry sector. In assessing the applications for the position, particular emphasis will be placed on (1) applicants’ scientific proficiency in wood and polymer science and technology, and (2) their ability to develop their own line of research in wood composites, complementing the ongoing research within the group.

We will also place emphasis on the applicant’s personal characteristics and suitability. The applicants’ ability to work constructively in a small group and to take own initiatives is very important.

About us

The Department of Forest Biomaterials and Technology (SBT) is part of the Faculty of Forest Science, has about 50 employees and is based in both Umeå and Uppsala. The department conducts high-quality research and education at a high international level and collaborates with society and industry to develop a bio-based economy where forest biomaterials are an important resource. The main focus in Umeå is on value chains in the bio-based industry where different components of forest biomaterials are collected, characterized, separated, modified / refined, used and reused cost-effectively for various purposes while forest ecosystem services are managed sustainably. In Uppsala, focus is on wood science and technology with research and education on wood materials from nano to macro level, wood composites and wood adhesives, and with accredited testing of wood products and treatments for the market. More info about the activities of the research group at Uppsala can be found here: https://www.slu.se/en/departments/forest-biomaterials-technology/travetenskap/fibres-adhesives–composites/

Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/

Location:

Uppsala

Form of employment:

Temporary employment 24 months, with the possibility of extension.

Scope:

100%

Start date:

March 2025 or by agreement

Application:

Please submit your application before deadline 15 February 2025. You can submit your application by clicking the button below.

Union representatives:

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has a key role in the development for sustainable life, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interaction between humans, animals and ecosystems and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Our main campuses are located in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala, however, the university also operates at research stations, experimental forests and teaching sites throughout Sweden.

SLU has around 3,000 employees, 5,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 3 billion. We are investing in attractive environments on all of our campuses. We strive to provide a work environment characterised by inclusivity and gender equality, where different experiences generate conversations between people and pave the way for science, creativity and development. Therefore, we welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

Contact person

Stergios Adamopoulos

Professor

+46(0)18-67 24 74

firstname.surname@slu.se

Mikael Thyrel

Head of Department

+46(0)90-786 87 74

firstname.surname@slu.se

URL to this pagehttps://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/jobs-vacancies/?rmpage=job&rmjob=12140&rmlang=UK