Master’s thesis project in Sustainable Materials Chemistry

The Department of Materials and Environmental

Chemistry (MMK) is one of the largest institutions at Stockholm

University with about 150 employees and about 2,000 students per

academic year. The teaching focuses on material chemistry and modern

characterization techniques. The main research areas are Materials for a

sustainable society, Synthesis and processing methods for sustainable

materials, and Chemical analysis and structural characterization

methods.

Lignin is an aromatic plant polymer and abundant by-product from the

pulp and paper industry. Despite its many unique properties, most of the

lignin produced today is combusted for energy, partly because there is a

shortage of value-added applications. Colloidal lignin particles have

emerged during the past few years as a new class of material with many

beneficial properties. Consequently, many new applications are in sight

and there is a growing interest in the use of colloidal lignin in

high-performance materials.

The student recruited for this position will be working on the

preparation and characterization of colloidal lignin particles within an

industrial project. The purpose of the project is to assess the

applicability of these colloidal lignin particles in industrial

products. The selected candidate will receive a stipend. The duration of

the project is six months (30 ECTS) and it will involve collaboration

and communication with the industry partner.

The MSc thesis project will be carried out in the Sustainable Materials

Chemistry (SUSMATCHEM) research group (www.sipponenlab.com ) at MMK. The

group focuses on the synthesis of lignin-based functional materials

following the principles of green chemistry. Other areas of interest

include fundamental studies on the formation and structure, as well as

functions of nanomaterials, hybrid materials, and composites in their

target applications.

Laboratory work on synthesis and characterization of colloidal lignin

particles. Characterization techniques include dynamic light

scattering, electrophoretic mobility, and morphological (electron

microscopy, atomic force microscopy) analyses. The formal requirements

of the thesis project are defined by the department.

Qualification requirements

BSc degree in chemistry or materials science (180 ECTS) and at least 15

ECTS of completed coursework related to materials chemistry at the MSc

level. Candidates who have completed their studies outside of Sweden

meet the requirement in English language as explained in the website https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/entry-requirements/english-language-requirements/ . For students from non-EU countries tuition fees apply.

Applicants must have strong communication and self-management skills

with excellent knowledge in English, both written and oral. Special

emphasis will be placed on grades and research experience gained during

the studies.

The position involves full-time employment for a maximum of six months. Start date 2021-02-25 or as per agreement.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Further information about the position can be obtained from Assist.

Professor Mika Sipponen, mika.sipponen@mmk.su.se . Please express your

interest to the position by sending the following information with your

application by email:

    • Cover letter

    • CV – degrees and other completed courses, work experience, a list

of publications (if any), contact details, language skills, contact

details for 2-3 references in a single document

You are welcome to apply!

Stockholm University contributes to the development of sustainable

democratic society through knowledge, enlightenment and the pursuit of

truth.

Closing date: 2021-03-31 (extended)