Technician Research and Education in Macromolecular Chemistry (1.0 FTE)

Updated: 11 months ago
Deadline: 01 May 2023

Since its foundation in 1614, the University of Groningen has enjoyed an international reputation as a dynamic and innovative center of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. Study and career paths in a wide variety of disciplines encourage currently more than 37,000 students and researchers to develop their individual talents. Belonging to the best research universities in Europe, the top 100 universities in the world and joining forces with prestigious partner universities and networks, the University of Groningen is truly an international place of knowledge.

The mission of the Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials is the design and scientific study of materials for functionality. The strength of the institute lies in focused, curiosity-driven, symbiotic studies of functional materials involving researchers from physics, chemistry and biology. The Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials covers the whole chain from synthesizing materials, building devices, characterizing materials and devices, and investigating the theoretical foundation of their properties.

The main research interests of the Macromolecular Chemistry and New Polymeric Materials group are currently focused on the design, synthesis and characterization of novel tailor made macromolecules as well as on the development of sustainable, eco-efficient and competitive production methods of polymeric materials. By utilizing modern polymer synthesis techniques including biocatalysis and other controlled polymerization methods the research of the group aims to expand fundamental scientific knowledge towards advanced technologies.

Main activities:

? management of laboratory spaces, coordinating chemical and consumables purchase, coordinating waste and chemical logistics
? coordinate the purchase, upgrade and maintenance of scientific equipment, keeping them up to date, following new developments and possibly implementing them
? coordinate the activities in the laboratory and function as the Health, Safety and Environmental coordinator of the group
? guiding PhD candidates, postdoctoral researchers and students in their research by supporting them in choosing proper methods, techniques, and equipment
? assisting in data processing and interpreting
? setting up and carrying out (parts of) research, analyzing and interpreting results, and making suggestions for (follow-up) research. Instructing and/or conducting measurements for third parties who wish to use the facilities within the group
? supporting and teaching lab courses (both internally and externally). Evaluating and grading practical reports
? maintaining the GPC, spectroscopy and general polymer science characterization equipment and perform measurements for internal and external users
? participate in the acquisition of projects
? for the period of 2023 – 2024 – coordinate the move and start-up of the laboratories of the group to the new research building together with the other technician in the group.


Degree in Macromolecular chemistry, applied chemistry, analytical chemistry or similar from a university or university of applied sciences, with significant additional experience.

Specifically:

? significant experience with laboratory support and coordination, including laboratory and equipment maintenance and safety
? experience with polymer synthesis and characterization techniques. In particular, experience with Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) or comparable chromatographic techniques, Infrared Spectroscopy, Microscopy is highly desirable
? fluent in English and Dutch or you are willing to learn the Dutch language (for which support is available)
? a dynamic, creative and pioneering professional attitude
? the ability to work independently and with colleagues, and to take the lead in coordination and providing new ideas
? a problem-solving ability
? cross-cultural sensitivity and strong communication skills
? enjoys working with young people of several educational backgrounds.


We offer an attractive job with variation in tasks within a vibrant, stimulating and international research institute. We offer you in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities:

• a salary ranging from € 2,960 up to € 4,670 (scale 10) gross per month for a full-time position depending of relevant experience and training
• a holiday allowance of 8% gross annual income and an 8.3% year-end bonus
• a time-limited employment for one year. If the outcome of the evaluation after one year is positive, the appointment will be prolonged for an indefinite term.



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