Postdoctoral Fellow in Transmission Electron Microscopy

The Department of Chemistry with more than 200 employees, is one of the largest departments at Stockholm University. The research spans all areas of chemistry such as analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, materials chemistry, inorganic and structural chemistry and organic chemistry. The research projects are many from theory to experiment, from basic research to more applied projects often focusing on sustainable chemistry but also advanced analytical methods of chemicals and materials. The department has a very well-developed research infrastructure with state-of-the-art equipment with qualified support from staff scientists.

The department also hosts the Bachelor's degree programme in chemistry and three Master's programmes: analytical chemistry, sustainable chemistry, and organic chemistry. PhD programmes are conducted in five areas: analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, materials chemistry, inorganic chemistry and organic chemistry. More information about us, please visit: www.su.se/department-of-chemitry.

This recruitment is linked to the Wallenberg Initiative Materials Science for Sustainability (WISE, wisematerials.org). WISE, funded by the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation, is the largest investment in materials science in Sweden ever and will include major investments at Sweden's leading universities over the course of 10 years. The vision is a sustainable future through materials science. Read more: https://wise-materials.org.

All early-stage researchers recruited into the WISE program will be a part of the WISE Research School https://wise-materials.org/research-school/ an ambitious nationwide program of seminars, courses, research visits, and other activities to promote a strong multi-disciplinary and international network between PhD students, postdoctors, researchers, and industry.

Project description

We are looking for a postdoctor to work within a project exploring the structures of plant-based metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) using advanced transmission electron microscopy and electron diffraction techniques. Bio-based MOF adsorbents, e.g. made from plant-derived linker molecules, have shown selective properties, e.g. for the removal of water contaminants.

The properties of materials are determined by their structures at the atomic and molecular scale, and their selectivity for adsorption is largely governed by the structure and chemical functionality at the atomic scale. In this project, we are developing advanced techniques based in the transmission electron microscope, such as phase-contrast scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and three-dimensional electron diffraction (3D ED) to study the local structure and disorders of MOFs at the atomic scale.

The postdoctor will be working in the group of Assoc. Prof. Tom Willhammar (www.willhammargroup.com).

Main responsibilities

The project aims to develop protocols for structural investigations of MOF adsorbents at the atomic scale, including defects, disorders, and guest species. For this purpose, you will utilize techniques based on electron crystallography, such as STEM imaging and 3D electron diffraction (3D ED/MicroED). This includes development of protocols for the acquisition and analysis of electron microscopy data and their applications to study the local atomic scale structures. The project also aims to utilize and develop protocols and methods for phase-contrast STEM imaging. You may also contribute to MOF synthesis.

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 must have been completed at latest before the employment decision is made, but no more than three years before the closing date. An older degree may be acceptable under special circumstances. Special reasons refer to sick leave, parental leave, elected positions in trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances as well as clinical attachment or service/assignments relevant to the subject area.

In the appointment process, special attention will be given to research skills relevant to this project. We are looking for an excellent candidate with prior experience in structural characterization, including transmission electron microscopy and crystallography as well as nanoporous materials. Familiarity with aberration-corrected (S)TEM, 3D electron diffraction, or MOFs, is beneficial. Demonstrable experience with advanced techniques in the (S)TEM such as 4D STEM, integrated differential phase contrast (iDPC), cryo-EM and/or ptychography is advantageous. Experience in scientific programming and/or familiarity with electron beam-sensitive specimens will be an asset. Given the international collaborations inherent in this project, excellent written and oral communication skills are essential.

About the employment

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

We offer

With us, you will experience the dynamic interaction between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international environment and get favourable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good transport links to the city.

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 Tom Willhammar, tom.willhammar@su.se. For general information about the Department of Chemistry, please contact the Head of the Department, Prof. Niklas Hedin, niklas.hedin@su.se.

Application

Apply for the position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form. 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.

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