We are looking for an enthousiastic researcher with interest in the synthesis-structure-property relationships of carbohydrate / polysaccharide systems.

Carbohydrates are key components in not only natural and processed foods but also in many industrial applications ranging from commodity plastics and fibers to high tech applications such as self-cleaning coatings etc. However, as established as the use of carbohydrates in many fields is, many issues related to the relationship of structure, composition and physical properties of carbohydrates are not understood.

In general, not limited to carbohydrates or biopolymers, one of the most fascinating parts of polymer science is to understand the relationship between molecular architecture and the physical properties of polymers; to quantify the effects and even to go further and be able to predict how the molecular structure could be altered to modify physical properties.

The detailed characterization of polymers is a great challenge in polymer analysis but one of the most important steps in understanding synthesis-structure-property relationships of polymers. In this research we will aim to unravel this relationship in selected carbohydrate systems (such as starch, cellulose, chitin etc.) by an in depth study of their macromolecular composition and dispersity, their chain topology and resulting functional features.

The ideal candidate is highly motivated and will hold a PhD in Polymer Science / Chemistry, Physical Chemstry or Material Science. Prior experience in carbohydrate research is necessary. Knowledge of (physical chemical) characterization techniques such as size exclusion chromatography, light scattering, rheology would be an advantage.

Fixed-term contract: 36 months.

The University of Groningen offers a salary dependent on qualifications and work experience of € 2,588 gross per month up to a maximum of € 4,084 gross per month (salary scale 10 Dutch Universities) for a full-time position. This position is defined according to the UFO function profile 'researcher 4'. The appointment is temporary for a period of three years with the perspective of prolongation.

How to apply
You may apply for this position until 15 February / before 16 February 2018 (Dutch local time) by means of the application form (click on "Apply" below on the advertisement on the university website).

Applications for the position should include:
• curriculum vitae (name, address, degree(s) with transcript(s) of grades, research experience, educational and employment history, etc.); please include the University and GPA of your BSc and MSc, as well as any awards, distinctions, and publications within the body of your email
• motivation letter
• name and (email) address of three academic references.

The preferred starting date will be as soon as possible.

Unsolicited marketing is not appreciated.

Faculty of Science and Engineering

Founded in 1614, the University of Groningen enjoys an international reputation as a dynamic and innovative institution of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. As one of the best research universities in Europe, the University of Groningen has joined forces with other top universities and networks worldwide to become a truly global centre of knowledge.

The Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials of the Faculty of Science and Engineering is a leading institute in the field of Materials Science. It has embraced interdisciplinary research since 1970. Its goal is to encourage excellent collaborative materials research with expertise from physics, chemistry and bioengineering/biophysics, while respecting and stimulating the expertise and high quality of the individual groups. This setup allows fostering young, talented researchers in a multidisciplinary research environment, leading to groundbreaking discoveries. About 30 principal investigators are currently organized in 17 research units of which 4 focus on theoretical and 13 on experimental research. In total the Zernike Institute hosts 260 staff members.

The Carbohydrate Competence Center (CCC) is the leading carbohydrate knowledge centre in the Netherlands, bringing together excellence in carbohydrate research and knowledge. The CCC generates, develops and shares high-caliber expertise in the field of carbohydrates, to promote innovation worldwide and contribute to healthy and sustainable societies. Since 2008, businesses and knowledge institutes have worked actively within the Carbohydrate Competence Center (CCC) on demand-driven research programmes focused on carbohydrates as part of a healthy diet and carbohydrates as a source of new materials and chemicals.