Researcher in Materials Chemistry - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

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: Department of Chemistry.

Project description

The position will be associated with the ACCELERATE Research Center — Accelerate Transition to and Scale-Up of bio-CO2 Utilization, which is a multidisciplinary center aiming to develop innovative materials, processes and systems for capturing and converting bio-CO2 into high-value chemicals and pharmaceuticals for defossilising chemical production. The center is a collaboration between various schools at KTH, Stockholm University and an industrial consortium composed of Stockholm Exergi, Astra Zeneca, Biofiber Tech, Grimaldi Development, Tekniska Verken in Linköping, Perstorp AB, Nynas AB, IKEM and EnergiForsk.

Main responsibilities

The position involves cutting-edge research in the development of sustainable materials dedicated to CO2 capture and conversion. You will focus on developing amine-functionalized solid adsorbents for CO2 chemisorption through in-situ polymerization approach to grow polyamine directly on solid substrates. A key aspect of this work includes investigating fundamental polymerization mechanisms and pathways, as well as optimizing polymerization conditions to ensure compatibility across diverse solid substrates.

In addition to capture technologies, you are expected to contribute to electrochemical CO2 conversion by synthesizing and developing innovative heterogeneous electrode materials. This research emphasizes sustainable catalyst design, aiming to minimize or eliminate the use of hazardous or toxic heavy metals while selectively driving conversion toward valued C2+ products or carbon materials rather than C1 products.

You will work closely with complementary projects within the broader CCUS portfolio. Responsibilities also include actively participating in routine laboratory management, equipment maintenance, and safety protocols to support a collaborative and efficient research environment.

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

In the appointment process, special attention will be given to research skills and experience. The following criteria are highly valued:

• Expertise in CO2 chemistry: A deep understanding of fundamental mechanisms of CO2 chemistry, as well as chemical reactions associated with capture and conversion;
• Advanced materials knowledge: A comprehensive understanding of the composition, properties, and synthesis process of different advanced materials.
• System-level insights: board system perspectives in BECCUS, CCUS and DAC.
• Hands-on laboratory experience: Demonstrated practical experience in material synthesis, polymerization, carbonization, catalytic, and electrochemical reactions.
• Characterization skills: practical expertise in material characterization, particularly using techniques such as gas adsorption analyzers, SEM, XRD, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, NMR etc.
• Collaborative & Independent skills: Proven ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Additional assets: Background knowledge or formal training in chemical engineering is considered a strong asset.

About the employment

The position involves full-time employment for a maximum of 12 months. Start date 2026-08-15 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

Further information about the position can be obtained from the Head of the Department Professor Niklas Hedin, niklas.hedin@su.se, and Professor Jiayin Yuan, jiayin.yuan@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.