Postdoc in Fibres from Unexploited Sources and Recycling

Postdoc in Fibres from Unexploited Sources and Recycling

SLU - Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences

Uppsala, Sweden

Duties:

Despite the widely recognised and urgent need to substitute fossil raw materials with renewables, under-developed biomass processing methods and poor understanding of the multiple benefits of novel applications currently restrict the implementation of sustainable fibre value chains. While hemp and woody biomass represent well-established biomass types for biorefineries, other underexploited species such as thistle, cattail and common reed could add to the crop selection and biomass production potential. The enormous wood waste, mainly generated by the furniture and construction sectors, is another potential source of valuable secondary fibres. However, there is only a small activity in higher value circular flows. The current situation in wood waste recycling is characterised by size reduction downcycling in the particleboard industry, limited to a few material streams only. Novel fibre substrates can thus be derived from less exploited feedstock sources and recycling with aim to replace conventional materials and reduce the pressure to use woody biomass to the extent that the carbon sink of forested land is put at risk. The scientific knowledge on the characteristics and properties of such fibres types must be completed as a prerequisite for their industrial acceptance and further development.

Qualifications:

As postdoctoral appointments are career-developing positions for junior researchers, we are primarily looking for candidates with a doctoral degree in one of the following areas: wood technology, material science, mechanical engineering, polymer technology, building materials, forestry or other relevant subject. Experience in fibre and particle analysis and manufacturing of composites at the laboratory are necessary. Previous experiences in using analytical instruments are desirable. Fluent English language, both in writing and speaking is required.

The fellow is expected to work and collaborate with PhD students employed in the Horizon Europe projects EcoReFibre and FIBSUN of the group of Fibres & Wood Composites. The aim is to increase the comprehensive potential of fibres from unexploited feedstock sources and wood waste recycling for novel raw material value chains and more green processes in manufacturing industries. We are thus looking for a highly motivated individual who is interested in a continued academic career in wood and fibre science.

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