Doctoral Student in Nanomaterial Synthesis for Breath Sensors

Job Description

Organization: Chalmers University of Technology – Department of Life Sciences

Chalmers University of Technology invites applications for a Doctoral Student position focusing on nanomaterial synthesis for breath-based chemical sensors. The project explores non-invasive disease diagnostics by developing highly sensitive chemoresistive sensors capable of detecting biomarkers in human breath.

The research integrates nanotechnology, chemistry, catalysis, and sensor engineering to create advanced sensing materials and devices. The project aims to understand interactions between nanostructured materials and disease-related biomarkers to improve sensor sensitivity and selectivity. The work will extend from fundamental materials development to device fabrication and testing with real human breath samples.

Research Responsibilities

• Synthesize and characterize novel sensing materials, including hybrid carbon-based materials and inorganic nanomaterials.
• Investigate material–biomarker interactions relevant for breath diagnostics.
• Develop chemoresistive sensors and evaluate their performance.
• Conduct laboratory sensor testing and real-world breath analysis experiments.
• Develop scientific concepts and communicate research findings through publications and presentations.
• Participate in teaching or departmental duties equivalent to approximately 20% of working hours.
• Take advanced courses within the Graduate School of Biosciences.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree (120 credits) or equivalent in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Nanotechnology, or a related discipline.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Collaborative mindset and ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Practical laboratory experience in chemistry research environments.
• Experience with chemoresistive sensors.
• Experience in catalysis or nanomaterial synthesis.
• Interest in working in a newly established and growing research laboratory.

Employment Conditions

• Fully funded doctoral position for 4 years, extendable up to 5 years with teaching duties.
• Starting salary: 34,550 SEK per month (valid from May 2025).
• Doctoral studies require physical presence at Chalmers throughout the study period.

Research Environment

The Department of Life Sciences at Chalmers provides an interdisciplinary research environment combining expertise in biotechnology, materials science, nanotechnology, and chemistry. The project includes collaborations with clinical researchers and clinicians at Sahlgrenska University Hospital.