PhD student in Electronics with focus on Sensor based gas measurement

Mid Sweden University, the department of Electronic Design and the research centre STC (Sensible Things that Communicate, www.miun.se/stc) announces an open position for a PhD student in the MiLo project – Environment in the control loop.

The research will be made in collaboration with industrial partners in a larger project that integrates the technology challenges within environmental monitoring for the following application areas: Airports, Waist deposits of cellulose fibers, Industries and Winter sport facilities.

Position description:
This position focuses on development of methods and technologies for analysis of environmental and health hazardous gases. These gases can occur as residues from industrial production and waste. Even in food production, gas measurements are of interest. In the event of bacterial decomposition of food, different gases are secreted. By detecting these gases, the sustainability of the food can be ensured and diseases are prevented. In many situations, it is of interest to continuously measure and map the presence of several different gases present simultaneously. This means that several technologies may need to work together and / or new sensor principles may need to be developed. Cost, accuracy and robustness are always aspects that affect the ability to measure continuously in field applications. In some cases, as for methane and hydrogen sulphide, even low levels of emissions can have a major impact on the environment and health. Too measure these low levels, variations in pressure, temperature and humidity need to be compensated. The work in this area includes theoretically as well as a large measure of practical work in developing and verifying developed sensor systems.

Entry requirements:
To meet the basic entry requirements for doctoral programmes applicants must have a second-cycle degree or have completed studies for at least 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second-cycle, or have equivalent qualifications. Specific eligibility requires at least 90 credits in electrical engineering, physics and computer engineering or subjects closely related to them or in some other way in Sweden or abroad has acquired largely equivalent knowledge.

Selection criteria:
Apart from the formal competence the selection will also be based on other work (i.e thesis work), courses and on interviews of the applicant. Prior experiences in metrology, sensors and systems, material physics or environmental measurements is seen as an advantage. Personal qualities are assessed through interview with selected candidates and will be weighed together with the formal subject knowledge. A short description of the applicants’ visions and goals should be included in the application.

Good knowledge of oral/written communication in English is a requirement. Ability to communicate in Swedish is an advantage.
Employment: The post graduate employment is intended to be an employment equivalent to two years fulltime research studies and aims to lead to a Licentiate degree. The appointment may be extended up to the doctorate degree, provided that additional funding is obtained. Starting date is determined after selection.

Employment:
The post graduate employment is intended to be an employment equivalent to two years fulltime research studies and aims to lead to a Licentiate degree. The appointment may be extended up to the doctorate degree, provided that additional funding is obtained. Starting date is determined after selection.