瑞典斯德哥尔摩大学大气化学博士后职位

瑞典斯德哥尔摩大学大气化学博士后职位

Postdoctoral Fellow In Atmospheric Chemistry

Stockholm University

The Department of Environmental Science is one of the biggest departments at the Faculty of Science. The department consists of four units with more than 170 researchers, teachers, doctoral students and technical/administrative staff from over 30 countries. Research and teaching focuses on chemical contaminants, atmospheric science, biogeochemistry and (eco)toxicology. As an employee at the Department of Environmental Science you will be part of a dynamic environment with research in leading research areas and with a strong international profile.

Project description There is clear epidemiological evidence that fine particles, which are ubiquitous in ambient air, have a negative effect on human health. However, the mechanisms behind these effects are still poorly understood. Therefore, it is not known which particle properties are the most relevant for causing health effects, leading to large uncertainties regarding the harmfulness of various particle sources. Another complicating factor is the fact that particles constantly undergo both physical and chemical changes in the atmosphere (i.e. aging), which changes their properties with time.

The focus of this project is to understand how chemical and physical changes of airborne particles affect their toxicity. A Potential Aerosol Mass (PAM) reactor will be used to generate aged aerosol samples both in the laboratory and in real world environments. Acellular assays will be used to measure the oxidative potential of the particles, which indicates their potential to generate oxidative stress. In addition, several other analytical techniques will be used to monitor the chemical and physical changes in the particles.

Main responsibilities The incoming postdoctor will have the opportunity to develop the direction of the research project. The selected candidate will run a PAM reactor to generate aged aerosol samples and characterise these samples using primarily acellular assays to measure their oxidative potential. Further characterisation of the samples may involve e.g. SMPS measurements and mass spectrometry. Interpretation of data and publication of results will also be an important part of the work.

Qualification requirements Postdoctoral positions are appointed primarily for purposes of research. Applicants are expected to hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent degree from another country.