Postdoctoral Scholarship at Stockholm University
Postdoctoral scholarship in action spectroscopy
of flavin complexes and artificial photosynthesis
at the Department of Physics. Closing date: March 1, 2022.
The Department of Physics is one of the biggest departments within the Faculty of Science and supports a broad range of basic research in experimental and theoretical physics. It has about 250 employees of which 95 are PhD students. Many have been internationally recruited. The Department is part of the AlbaNova University Center, which apart from the Department of Physics houses the Department of Astronomy (Stockholm University), the Physics Departments and the Division of Theoretical Chemistry at the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH), and the Nordic Institute for Theoretical Physics (Nordita).
Research area
We have a postdoctoral fellowship beginning early 2022 for an outstanding individual for experimental studies in the following areas: Action spectroscopy of molecular complexes, photochemistry in charged microdroplets and applications to artificial photosynthesis.
As a starting point, the project takes inspiration from nature's light-emitting diodes (LEDs): bioluminescent bacteria. The key photochemically active unit, called the chromophore, responsible for light emitted from these bacteria is a biomolecule from the flavin family. The project aims to establish a quantitative picture of how flavin luminescence is modulated by the nano-scale interactions with the protein nano-environment inside the bacteria. In pursuit of this goal, unique state-of-the-art gas-phase ion spectroscopy instrumentation will be developed and implemented.
In parrallel, new spectroscopic and analytical methods will be developed for probing the electronic and chemical properties of flavins inside and at the surface of charged microdroplets. These experiments will establish a quantitative picture of how flavin luminescence is modulated by the nano-scale interactions in the microdroplet and by extension to the similar interactions with the protein nano-environment inside the bacteria.
This new knowledge will be applied towards the development of an artificial photosystem exploiting the unique characteristics of charged microdroplets.
The fellow will be placed at Stockholm University and have the opportunity to participate in international conferences and research stays.
Scholarship terms
Postdoctoral scholarship for one year with the possibility of extension for another year. Start date as soon as possible or per agreement.
Scholarship for conducting postdoctoral studies can be awarded for up to two years within five years after PhD or equivalent.
Qualifications
Qualified applicants hold a Ph.D. in physics or chemistry with a background in molecular spectroscopy and/or mass spectrometery with a focus on photochemistry or gas-phase ion spectroscopic studies. Experience with experiments involving charged microdroplets or related systems is highly desirable. Experience with luminescence spectroscopy and ion mobility spectrometery is advantageous. The successful applicant will be somebody who can not only contribute strongly in the laboratory, but also in analyzing results and not least in drafting papers.
The assessment is based on documented experimental knowledge relevant to the area, knowledge of and experience in instrumentation and experimental methods, analytical skills, ability to work well in groups as well as independently, and personal commitment. Strong motivation is considered a key component for a successful outcome of the postdoctoral research. Applicants are invited to enclose documents certifying qualifications and competences, i.e. knowledge, skills and experience relevant to the application. Letters of recommendation and interviews will be used to assess the applicant's qualifications.
Contact
For more information about the scholarship, please contact Mark Stockett, Mark.Stockett@fysik.su.se
Application
Apply to this scholarship by e-mail to Mark Stockett, Mark.Stockett@fysik.su.se. Your complete application must be received no later than March 1, 2022. Mark your application with reference number SU-402-0142-21.
The application should comprise:
- CV - degrees and other completed courses, work experience and a list of publications
- Cover letter (no more than 2 pages) describing:
- why you are interested in the field/project described in the advertisement
- what makes you suitable for the project in question
- Copies of doctoral degree certificate and other relevant degree certificates
- Contact details for 1-2 references.
- Your academic referees should send their recommendation letters no later than application deadline, via email to Mark Stockett, Mark.Stockett@fysik.su.se
You are welcome to apply!