Monday, February 11, 2013

Norway : PhD position in Experimental Biophysics

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