Postdoctoral Fellow in Atmospheric Chemistry
Postdoctoral Fellow in Atmospheric Chemistry
Stockholm University - Department Environmental Science
Stockholm, Sweden
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.
