Department of Molecular Sciences

We are looking for someone who wants to contribute to the development of knowledge on how to create, manufacture, and characterize functional silicon matrix-based hybrid organic-inorganic adsorbents for water purification from perfluorinated organic substances (PFAS).

The Inorganic and Physical Chemistry group works on developing knowledge about environmental technologies and biomedical applications of inorganic and hybrid inorganic-organic nanostructured materials. We conduct this research in close collaboration with specialists in analysis and monitoring of water quality. An important part of our work is teaching at both undergraduate and advanced levels in general chemistry and inorganic chemistry. The undergraduate teaching is conducted in Swedish.

About the job

You will work on the development of advanced synthesis techniques for the production of hybrid materials with a large active surface area, with a particular focus on functions that contribute to the capture of PFAS. The goal will be to develop cost-effective silicon-based matrices and tailor their surface through grafting specific organic functions.

You will actively work on the characterization of various materials using solution and solid-state NMR spectroscopy, environmental electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, AFM, as well as other methods such as FTIR, UV-Vis.

You are expected to independently summarize your results and prepare research papers for publication in high-ranking scientific journals.

Teaching, especially at the undergraduate level in both theoretical and practical components, is included in the job.

Your background

You have documented experience in research in a relevant field, strong expertise in the synthesis of silicon-based adsorbents with high active surface area, their functionalization, and their use for capturing PFAS. You have documented experience working with hybrid materials for other applications in water purification and hydrometallurgy. You have worked independently on the characterization of various inorganic and hybrid materials and with spectroscopic studies of surfaces.

• PhD in inorganic chemistry, materials chemistry, or environmental chemistry
• Documented ability to synthesize silicon-based matrices with high ordered porosity and their chemical functionalization
• Documented experience in the use of adsorbents for water purification from PFAS and heavy metals
• Documented ability to conduct analyses using NMR, electron microscopy, and XRD
• Good experience in teaching at the undergraduate level
• Very good ability to express yourself in both spoken and written Swedish and English

About us

The Department of Molecular Sciences currently consists of about 100 employees and, together with three other departments, forms an inspiring research environment at BioCentrum at Ultuna Campus, Uppsala.

The department conducts basic and applied research, teaching, and development work in several interrelated areas such as inorganic, physical, and organic chemistry, biochemistry, molecular structural biology, biotechnology, natural product chemistry, microbiology, and food science. The department has advanced infrastructure for chemical studies, including equipment for advanced inorganic and organometallic synthesis, NMR spectroscopy where the department is part of the national SwedNMR initiative, advanced mass spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy (ESEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffraction for structural determination of single crystals and powders, gas and liquid chromatography equipment, etc.

The department conducts interdisciplinary research collaborations with other institutions at SLU, nationally and internationally, in studies of materials and processes for agricultural and environmental applications.

Read more about our activities and infrastructure here https://www.slu.se/institutioner/molekylara-vetenskaper/ (https://www.slu.se/institutioner/molekylara-vetenskaper/)

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at SLU at https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/ (https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/)

Location:

Uppsala

Employment form:

Fixed-term employment for 12 months

Extent:

50%

Start date:

March 1, 2026, or by agreement

Application:

Welcome with your application via the application button below by 2026-02-16.

Union contact persons:

https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/ (https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/)

Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) plays a key role in the development of sustainable living, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interactions between humans, animals, and ecosystems and responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. The main locations are Alnarp, Umeå, and Uppsala, but activities are also conducted at research stations, experimental parks, and educational locations throughout the country.

SLU has over 4000 employees, 6000 students and doctoral students, and a turnover of more than 4.5 billion SEK. The university invests in attractive environments on its campuses. We strive for a gender-equal and inclusive work environment where open conversations between people with different experiences lay the foundation for scientific integrity, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome individuals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives to apply for the current position.