Two PhD Student Positions in Chemistry

Doctoral studies at Karlstad University are conducted in twenty-six disciplines, one of which is Chemistry. Two PhD student positions are vacant at the Department of Chemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden. Biochemistry (One position, reference FAK2 2009/50, admission 2009-09-01, or as agreed) The studies will be part of a project dealing with the molecular basis for microbial chlorate and perchlorate respiration. Approaches include the identification and characterization of genes associated with (per)chlorate metabolism as well as identification, isolation and functional characterization of the gene products. Methods include expression of recombinant proteins, protein analysis and identification using mass spectrometry, protein purification, and kinetic and spectroscopic characterization of proteins. Physical Chemistry (One position, reference FAK2 2009/51, admission 2009-09-01, or as agreed) The studies will focus on experimental investigations of the interactions in mixtures in solutions of nano or meso sized colloidal particles with polymers. The study aims at a better understanding of the phase behaviour in the colloid-polymer mixtures upon changing solvent conditions, e.g., when the mixture is forced to dry. Another part of the project includes spectroscopic characterisation of the mixtures to gain understanding of the electron and energy transfer processes that follows upon illumination. The research in Physical Chemistry is part of the Materials Science programme at Karlstad University. The investigated colloids and polymers will be selected within our collaboration with the Materials Physics group at Karlstad University. The common research interest focuses on solar cells and light-emitting diodes. The main experimental methods that will be used are steady-state and dynamic fluorescence spectroscopy, optical and electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. Qualifications: Fulfilling the requirements for a degree in Chemistry at advanced level (at least 240 ECTS credits) with a degree thesis in a relevant field, or a corresponding degree in a relevant discipline, is required for this position. At least 60 ECTS credits should be at advanced level (second cycle), of which the degree thesis should be at least of 15 ECTS credits (30 ECTS credits or more is recommended). For the position in biochemistry, it is eligible that the studies at the advanced level includes courses corresponding to at least 15 ECTS credits of biochemistry or molecular biology, that the degree thesis work is of relevance for the project, and that the degree thesis amounts to at least 30 ECTS credits. For the position in physical chemistry, it is eligible that the studies at the advanced level includes courses corresponding to at least 15 ECTS credits of physical chemistry or chemical physics. Admission: On the basis of individual assessment. Your application package should contain a cover letter detailing your reason to apply for this position, CV, copies of certificates, list of courses and grades, and information about your language skills (e.g., TOEFL test results). Do not forget to include a copy of your master's thesis or any published or submitted scientific articles in your application, if applicable. For more information about your application, please visit: www.kau.se/ledigatjanster