Description

KU is seeking a highly motivated Post-doctoral Fellow to work on a funded project to investigate the self-cleaning property of different polyolefin polymers and optimize their micro/nano structure to further enhance its non-wettability properties. Furthermore, different chemical functionalization will need to be utilized to also improve self-cleaning ability.

The project will specifically focus on fine tuning of different 3D printed micro structures as molds to be used to imprint the inverse structure on the desired polyolefin polymers. In addition, different non-toxic chemicals (protein or fat based) will be explored to functionalize the polyolefin surface to lower surface energy and improve self-cleaning property.

As part of the project, the researcher will have access to state-of-the-art research equipment and facilities at Borouge Innovation Center and will get an opportunity to work alongside researchers and graduate students from various backgrounds as part of a wider team.

Position Requirements

• Conduct research on the development of self-cleaning polyolefins for use in food packaging industry
• Design and 3D print different ceramic molds with different microstructures
• Optimize transfer method of printed microstructure onto polyolefin films surface via hot press
• Conduct wettability characterization and surface energy characterization of different designed structures on polyolefin.
• Find suitable non-toxic functionalization process for polyolefin to be utilized in food industry
• Study the possibility of scalability of entire process for pilot-sized applications
• Contribute to writing grants, drafting patents and attending conferences
• Train new lab personnel on lab methods, safety protocols, and standard operating procedures
• Drafting project specific SOPs and risk-assessments for laboratory equipment and chemicals
• Performing analyses in collaboration with senior scientists locally and internationally
• Adhere to the University\'s information security and confidentiality policies and procedures, and report breaches or other security risks accordingly
• Perform any other tasks assigned by the Line Manager

Qualifications

Candidate Profile

Essential Criteria

• PhD from a reputable university in Material Science or Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• Experience writing scientific or review papers;
• A willingness to contribute to a collaborative and supportive team culture
• Excellent English language communication skills (verbal and written)
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• The proven ability to work on multiple tasks with competing demands and deadlines.
• Ability to train and mentor students and support fellow researchers
• Highly developed reasoning and problem-solving skills

Desired Criteria

• PhD gained from a top 200 QS or THE ranked University
• High impact first-author publications in top 10% journals in the relevant field

Should you require further assistance or if you face any issue with the online application, please feel to contact the Recruitment Team ( ).

Primary Location: Abu Dhabi UAE
Job: Post Doctoral Fellow
Schedule: Regular
Shift: Standard
Job Type: Full-time

Times Higher Education