Researcher in Lab-on-a-Chip System Design and Fabrication

The Department of Chemistry, with more than 200 employees, is one of the largest at Stockholm University. Research spans all areas of chemistry such as analytical, physical, materials, inorganic and structural as well as organic chemistry. There are many research projects, from theory to experiment, from basic to more applied research, 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 and qualified support from staff scientists. The Department also hosts a Bachelor's degree programme in Chemistry and Master's programmes in Analytical Chemistry, Sustainable Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry. PhD programmes are conducted in five areas: Analytical, Physical, Materials, Inorganic and Organic Chemistry. More information about us, please visit: the Department of Chemistry.

Project description

The position will be associated with our research activities with lab-on-a-chip systems, integrating sensing technologies for applications in clinical diagnostics, environmental sensing and continuous flow synthesis. We design and fabricate devices in house within our microfabrication prototyping laboratory. You will play a central role in the overseeing the operation, development, and innovation of our laboratory, and interdisciplinary collaborations between engineering, natural sciences, and clinical research teams. The role of the candidate is essential to advancing cutting-edge research and technology translation in lab-on-chip systems, biosensors, and micro/nanotechnology.

Main responsibilities

You will lead the design, fabrication, and integration of microfluidic and lab-on-a-chip devices to support a wide range of research activities in analytical chemistry, biomedical applications and continuous flow synthesis across the department and beyond. This includes managing and maintaining the lab infrastructure, developing standard operating procedures for fabrication processes involving glass, polymers, paper, and metals. Fabrication techniques include photolithography, soft lithography, etching, laser cutting, CNC milling, hot embossing, bonding, and 3D printing. A central aspect of the role also involves the integration of electrochemical and optical biosensors within microfluidic platforms, including sensor surface modification and electrode patterning. You will supervise and train students and researchers, and support internal and external R&D collaborations involving sensing development, microfluidics design and fabrication, strategy development, and assay integration.

You will initiate R&D programs, prepare competitive research proposals to secure funding in the fields of microfluidics and lab-on-chip technologies. In parallel, you will actively contribute to technology transfer by liaising with industry partners, supporting startup initiatives, and leading the development of functional prototypes for clinical, environmental, and industrial applications. You will disseminate results through high-level scientific publications, conference presentations, and public engagement activities.

The role demands excellent project management capabilities, strong collaborative skills, and proven leadership in cross-disciplinary innovation.

Qualification requirements

Researchers are appointed primarily for purposes of research and must hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent degree from another country.

Assessment criteria

It is essential for the candidate to have experience working and leading microfluidic fabrication laboratories and to have extensive experience and skills in the design, fabrication and application of lab-on-a-chip devices for both research and translational applications. This will include significant experience in the simulation, design and fabrication of glass, PDMS, polymer, and paper-based microfluidic devices, employing a wide range of fabrication methods such as photolithography, soft lithography, wet/dry etching, laser cutting, CNC drilling, and 3D printing. This will also include proven ability to develop integrated electrochemical and optical microanalytical systems. The ideal candidate will be skilled in translating conceptual designs into functional prototypes using iterative development cycles. Additional desirable qualifications include strong research credentials in analytical chemistry and biosensing, experience in technology transfer, and previous involvement in SME or industrial R&D environments. Evidence of leadership in supervising students at various levels is essential. A strong publication record, a demonstrated ability to secure research funding, and effective communication with diverse audiences will be important factors in the evaluation.

About the employment

This is a full-time, indefinite-term position with a six-month trial period. The position will be funded by resources with Pamme and adjacent research groups. Start date 2026-07-01 or 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

For more information, please contact the project leader, Prof. Nicole Pamme, nicole.pamme@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.