This doctoral position at KTH Royal Institute of Technology offers an exciting opportunity to advance the field of material physics and non-destructive diagnostics of polymers, particularly in nuclear environments. The project is part of a larger, interdisciplinary research programme funded by the Swedish Research Council (VR), focusing on improving the safety and lifetime of polymeric components used in nuclear power applications such as cables, seals, and protective materials. The research will develop innovative, non-destructive methods for condition monitoring and lifetime assessment of polymeric materials. The doctoral student will combine low-field NMR with advanced material characterization techniques to establish quantitative relationships between molecular dynamics, microstructure, and functional degradation. Special attention is given to the influence of fillers, stabilization strategies, and active molecules on local segmental mobility, diffusion, and NMR relaxation, as well as how these properties evolve under controlled thermal ageing. The ultimate goal is to create robust, material-anchored condition indicators for reliable lifetime assessment in safety-critical environments. The project is conducted in close collaboration with other work packages, including material development and AI-based modelling, providing access to a strong research environment with modern infrastructure and international collaborations. Supervision will be provided by Professor Richard Olsson and Dr. Payam Pourmand, ensuring expert guidance throughout the doctoral studies. Applicants must meet the admission requirements for postgraduate education, including a relevant master's degree or equivalent, documented knowledge in polymeric materials, material characterization, or material physics, and English proficiency equivalent to English B/6. Selection criteria emphasize independence, collaboration, professionalism, and analytical skills. Experience with NMR, dielectric methods, spectroscopic techniques, ageing studies, polymer degradation, filled polymer systems, and programming or data analysis related to material characterization is considered meritorious. The position offers full-time employment for up to four years, with a monthly salary according to KTH's doctoral student salary agreement and attractive employee benefits. The research environment at KTH is creative and dynamic, with a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and equal opportunities. Applications must be submitted through KTH's recruitment system by March 5, 2026, and should include a CV, application letter, diplomas, grades, certificates of language proficiency, and representative publications or technical reports. Certified translations are required for documents not in English or Swedish. Join KTH Royal Institute of Technology and contribute to shaping the future of material science and polymer technology in nuclear safety. For further information, contact Professor Richard Olsson at [email protected].

The Polymeric Materials Division at KTH Royal Institute of Technology is offering two fully funded PhD positions in the fields of polymeric materials, material physics, and non-destructive diagnostics. The research addresses critical challenges in energy, safety, and sustainability, focusing on the ageing and diagnostics of polymers used in nuclear power plants and other demanding environments. Project 1: Ageing of Polymers in Nuclear Power Plants. This project aims to deepen the understanding of ageing mechanisms in safety-critical polymer components under operational conditions such as temperature, radiation, humidity, and oxygen availability. The research will enable more accurate lifetime predictions for existing components and inform the design of new, longer-lasting materials. The work integrates fundamental studies of chemical and mobility changes in polymers with risk-reducing strategies and advanced monitoring techniques, including AI-based modeling and digital twin workflows. Project 2: Material Physics and Non-Destructive Diagnostics of Polymers. This project focuses on developing non-destructive methods for monitoring the condition and assessing the lifespan of polymeric materials in nuclear environments. Techniques such as low-field NMR and advanced material characterization will be used to establish quantitative links between molecular dynamics, microstructure, and functional degradation. The goal is to create robust, material-anchored indicators for non-destructive lifetime assessment in safety-critical settings. Both projects are part of a larger, interdisciplinary research program with strong international collaborations and access to modern infrastructure. The research environment is dynamic and supportive, offering opportunities for professional growth and development. Supervision: The main supervisors are Professor Mikael Hedenqvist and Professor Richard Olsson, with Payam Pourmand and Fritjof Nilsson as assistant supervisors. The projects are based at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden. Eligibility: Applicants must hold a master's degree or equivalent in materials science, polymer technology, engineering physics, chemical engineering, or a related field. Required skills include knowledge of polymeric materials, material characterization, or material physics, and proficiency in English (English B/6 or equivalent). Merits include experience in ageing studies, polymer degradation, spectroscopy (FTIR/NMR), mechanical testing, and programming or data analysis related to material characterization. Personal qualities such as goal orientation, persistence, independence, teamwork, and analytical ability are highly valued. Funding: These are fully funded PhD positions with a monthly salary according to KTH's doctoral salary agreement. Employment is full-time for up to four years, with benefits and working conditions as per KTH's regulations. Doctoral students may undertake up to 20% departmental duties. Application: Applications must be submitted via KTH's recruitment system by March 5, 2026. Required documents include a CV, cover letter, degree certificates, transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and relevant publications. All documents should be in English or Swedish, with certified translations if necessary. For more information, visit the KTH job portal or contact Professor Mikael Hedenqvist ([email protected]) or Professor Richard Olsson ([email protected]).