A
PhD position within the field of biopolymer research is available at
Department of Physics, Section of biophysics and medical technology,
NTNU. The project constitutes part of an interdisciplinary biopolymer
research activity at NTNU that offer close collaboration between
various departments. PhD fellowships at NTNU are normally awarded for a
total of 3 years with the possibility of until 1 year extension with
25 % teaching duties in agreement with the department.
Biopolymers,
e.g. polysaccharides such as alginate and chitosans and their
derivatives, can be assembled to various material forms to target
specific application domains, e.g. gene and drug delivery
(polyelectrolyte complexes, polysaccharide nanoparticles),
immobilization and supportive matrices for tissue engineering
(gelation, hydrogel impregnation for barrier control, multilayers,
including biochemical cues and tailoring mechanical cues).
Additionally, the research domain includes ultrastructure
characterization and determination of interactions at the single
molecule level. Relevant experimental techniques include high-resolution
imaging, force characterization tools such as atomic force microscopy,
total internal reflection microscopy and high resolution determination
of hydrogel swelling. Preferred research areas for the available
position are within biomimetic soft materials for tissue engineering or
structure formation and characterization of biopolymer structures.
The
successful applicant is a highly motivated and ambitious student with
excellent grades and a Master of Science in experimental biophysics. A
background in biophysics is preferable, but candidates with similar
backgrounds will also be considered. Knowledge and experience in
studies of physical properties of water soluble polysaccharides is
considered a strength.
The
applicant should include a short project description (less than 4
pages) for their plans within the specified research activity in their
application. Promising candidates who deliver their master thesis
within 1st of July are also encouraged to apply.
Further information can be obtained from Professor Bjørn Torger Stokke, Department of Physics, NTNU, E-mail: bjorn.stokke@ntnu.no , Phone: +47 7359 3434
The
regulations for PhD programs at NTNU state that the applicant must
have a master’s degree or equivalent education that is approved by the
Faculty, and a weighted average grade in the past two years of master’s
(or equivalent education) of B or higher and C or higher of the BSc,
in accordance with NTNU’s grading system (a scale of A-E for passing
grades with A as best). Candidates from universities outside Norway are
welcome to apply and are requested to send a Diploma Supplement or a
similar document, which describes in detail the study and grade system
and the rights for further studies associated with the obtained degree:
The
appointment of the PhD will be made according to Norwegian guidelines
for universities and university colleges and to the general regulations
regarding university employees. PhD research positions are remunerated
in salary code 1017, normally at wage level 50 (LR 24) on the
Norwegian Government pay scale, gross NOK 416 600 per year before tax.
There is a 2% deduction for superannuation.
Applicants
must agree to participate in organized doctoral study programs within
the period of the appointment and have to be qualified for the
PhD-study. A contract will be drawn up regarding the period of
appointment and work related duties.
Applications
with CV, possible publications and other scientific works, certified
copies of transcripts and reference letters should be submitted
electronically through this page. Preferably we want the attachments in
one file. Applications submitted elsewhere will not be considered.
Application Deadline : 17 February 2013