Kemikum at Stockholm University seeks Postdoctoral Researcher in Sustainable Catalysis

Kemikum, with over 200 employees, is one of the largest institutions at Stockholm University.

Research at Kemikum spans all areas of chemistry, including analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, materials chemistry, inorganic and structural chemistry, as well as organic chemistry. The research projects range from theory to experiments, from pure fundamental research to more applied projects, often focusing on sustainable chemistry and advanced analytical methods for chemicals and materials. Kemikum has a well-developed research infrastructure with a variety of equipment and qualified support from staff researchers.

Kemikum also hosts undergraduate education in chemistry and three master's programs: analytical chemistry, sustainable chemistry, and organic chemistry. Doctoral training is conducted in five areas: analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, materials chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and organic chemistry.

More information about us can be found at: https://www.su.se/kemikum/ (https://www.su.se/kemikum/)

Project Description

The project focuses on the development of sustainable catalytic strategies for modern organic synthesis. The research aims to develop and apply innovative homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts for the sustainable and efficient synthesis of complex and high-value organic molecules. Special emphasis is placed on advanced catalytic platforms, including metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and well-defined molecular catalysts, to bridge fundamental catalytic research and practical synthetic applications.

The work is conducted within an interdisciplinary research environment in close collaboration with industrial and academic partners with specific expertise in life cycle assessment (LCA), toxicology, and sustainability analysis. All research activities are carried out in accordance with the principles of Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD), where performance, safety, and environmental impact are integrated from the earliest stages of catalyst and process development. The overarching goal is to contribute to more resource-efficient, environmentally friendly, and circular approaches in organic synthesis.

The work will be carried out in the research group of Professor Belén Martín-Matute.

Job Responsibilities

The main job responsibilities will include:

• Synthesizing and characterizing homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts for organic synthesis.
• Developing and applying catalytic systems based on these molecular and/or material-based catalysts for the production of relevant and complex organic molecules.
• Conducting mechanistic and kinetic studies to gain a fundamental understanding of catalytic activity, selectivity, and stability.
• Applying the principles of Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) in all catalyst and process development, in collaboration with experts in life cycle assessment (LCA) and toxicology.
• Actively participating in national and international scientific collaborations with experimental and theoretical partners.
• Contributing to the supervision of master's and doctoral students and supporting their scientific education.
• Contributing to project management by coordinating activities and reporting to the project consortium.
• Supporting daily laboratory operations and helping to maintain a safe and productive research environment.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the position of postdoctoral researcher, a completed doctoral degree or a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a relevant doctoral degree is required. The degree must be obtained no later than when the employment decision is made.

Assessment Criteria

It is advantageous if the doctoral degree or equivalent has been obtained no more than three years before the application deadline. If there are special reasons, an earlier obtained degree may also be considered advantageous. Special reasons include leave due to illness, parental leave, positions of trust within trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical service or relevant service/assignments in the subject area.

In the appointment process, particular importance will be attached to scientific competence, which should be demonstrated through the publication of high-quality original articles. Significant emphasis will be placed on experience in homogeneous catalysis, physical organic chemistry, and materials synthesis, including metal-organic frameworks, as well as broad competence in the characterization of (chiral) organic compounds and materials. Knowledge of life cycle assessment (LCA) and toxicological assessments will be regarded as advantageous.

About the Position

The position is full-time and is permanent, but for a minimum of two years and a maximum of three years, with the possibility of extension if there are special reasons. Start date by agreement.

We Offer

With us, you will experience the dynamics of the interaction between higher education and research, making Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international setting and enjoy favorable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good connections to the city.

Stockholm University is committed to being a workplace free from discrimination and providing equal rights and opportunities for all.

Contact

Inquiries about the position can be made to Professor Belén Martin-Matute, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]). General inquiries about Kemikum can be made to the head, Professor Niklas Hedin, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]).

Application

You apply for the position via Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the requested documents in the application form. As an applicant, you are responsible for ensuring that the application is complete and that it reaches the university no later than the application deadline.

Instructions for applicants can be found on the website: https://www.su.se/om-universitetet/jobba-på-su/att-söka-en-anställning (https://www.su.se/om-universitetet/jobba-p%C3%A5-su/att-s%C3%B6ka-en-anst%C3%A4llning).

Stockholm University contributes to the development of a sustainable democratic society through knowledge, enlightenment, and the pursuit of truth.