Vacant job

Umeå University is one of Sweden's largest higher education institutions, with over 41,500 students and approximately 4,600 employees. The university offers a diverse range of high-quality education and world-leading research across several scientific fields. It was here that the groundbreaking discovery of the gene-editing tool CRISPR-Cas9 was made, which was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry. At Umeå University, everything is close. Our cohesive campuses make it easy to meet, collaborate, and exchange knowledge, fostering a dynamic and open culture.

The societal transformation and major green investments we see in northern Sweden create enormous opportunities and complex challenges. For Umeå University, this means conducting research on – and within – a society in transition. It also means delivering education for regions that need to expand rapidly and sustainably. Simply put, this is where the future is created.

Are you interested in learning more? Read more about Umeå University as an employer.

The Department of Applied Physics and Electronics currently has approximately 100 employees and conducts research in mechanical engineering, energy technology, construction technology, as well as electronics and computer technology. The analytical platform Multi-purpose Adaptive X-ray Scattering (MAXS) is operated by researchers at the department and forms part of KBC's research infrastructure. The platform offers an open and flexible environment for collecting and analyzing data from X-ray-based methods, both at MAXS and at large-scale research facilities such as synchrotrons.

We are now looking for a Staff Scientist in X-ray-based Material Analysis and Material Synthesis from Secondary Streams. The position aims to strengthen MAXS and Umeå University regarding material analysis using X-ray-based methods in the laboratory or at synchrotrons, as well as material synthesis from secondary streams. The application deadline is June 14, 2026. The position will be filled from July 1, 2026, or as agreed.

Platform Description

MAXS offers state-of-the-art X-ray diffraction, total X-ray scattering, and X-ray reflectometry with several sample environments for advanced material characterization for users from academia, industry, or the public sector. The platform also provides a comprehensive environment for data evaluation, with access to large reference databases for data collected at MAXS or at other facilities. The environment is also compatible with data from synchrotron light sources.

Within the broader research environment of the Thermochemical Energy Conversion Laboratory (TEC-lab), there is also a synthesis laboratory focusing on high-temperature material synthesis, both for ongoing research projects and as reference materials.

Main Responsibilities

The position involves supporting the analytical environment at MAXS, focusing on data collection and analysis from X-ray-based methods at the laboratory scale and/or at synchrotrons. A central part of the responsibilities is to develop workflows that support PhD students, postdocs, and principal investigators (PIs) within the analytical environment.

Additionally, the role includes tasks within material synthesis, primarily through thermochemical methods and using residual streams from thermochemical conversion. The work also involves participating in data collection using synchrotron-based methods and interpreting this data in collaboration with PhD students.

The work may also include documentation, reporting, and publishing of research results.

Qualifications

You hold a PhD in physics, chemistry, technology, or an equivalent PhD considered relevant.

You must have documented expertise and demonstrated research competence in X-ray-based analysis methods, including synchrotron-based methods, as well as experience in material synthesis that includes secondary streams such as ashes or biochar.

Good command of English and Swedish, both spoken and written, along with a very strong ability to write scientific publications, is required.

Personal qualities such as teamwork and communication skills, as well as initiative and the ability to work independently, are also highly valued.

Other Desirable Qualifications

We are looking for someone with a strong personal interest in research and development in the field of this position. Experience with measurements at large-scale research infrastructure such as synchrotrons or neutron sources is highly meritorious. Experience in material synthesis including secondary raw materials from thermochemical processes is also meritorious.

Other Information

The position is full-time for 12 months, with a start date of July 1 or as agreed.

Application

You apply via the e-recruitment system Varbi, and the application must be received by June 14, 2026.

The application must consist of the following documents:

• Cover letter with a brief description of your qualifications, scientific interests, and motivation for applying (max two pages)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) with a publication list
• Certified copy of the PhD degree certificate or documentation proving when the PhD is expected to be awarded
• Copy of the PhD thesis and a maximum of 3 relevant articles
• Other documents the applicant wishes to submit
• References will be provided in connection with any interview.

Contact Information

For further information about the position, please contact; Nils Skoglund, tel +46 90 768 68 01, e-mail: [email protected] or Prefect Britt Andersson, tel. +46 90 786 96 38, e-mail: [email protected].

Welcome with your application!

Umeå University aims to offer an equal and inclusive environment where open dialogue between people with different backgrounds and perspectives lays the foundation for learning, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome people with diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply for the current position.

To staffing and recruitment agencies and to you who are sales representatives: We kindly but firmly decline direct contact from staffing and recruitment agencies as well as sales of further job advertisements.