PhD position at University of Neuchatel

PhD Position in Analytical Chemistry / Conservation Science
University of Neuchatel

Full time, fixed-term, maximum 4 years

Deadline for application: 31 July 2016

We are looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate to participate
to a research project on the conservation of waterlogged wood at the
interface of analytical chemistry, microbiology and art
conservation.

This project focuses on innovative biological methods of extraction
for the preservation of waterlogged wood.  The research team will
exploit the unique properties of some bacteria for anticipating the
extraction of iron and sulfur compounds when wood is still wet.
This would be the first time biotechnology is addressing the issue
of salt precipitation and acidification on waterlogged wood.  To
this purpose, two different strategies will be adopted: 1) oxidation
of sulfur species and 2) complexation of iron species.

The successful candidate will hold a University Master's degree in
materials sciences, conservation science or chemistry.  Experience
in dealing with cultural heritage and/or microorganisms would be an
advantage.  The ideal applicant will have strong analytical
abilities (including FTIR/Raman microscopy, XRD, SEM-EDS, XRF and
Synchrotron XAS) focused on solving technical/organizational issues
and be able to manage short-term deadlines as well as to develop a
long term development strategy.  In addition, he/she will be able to
communicate results in a multidisciplinary and multicultural
environment.  In particular, the candidate will assist in teaching
Bachelor students, in particular for the preparation and supervision
of laboratory courses in chemistry.  A good knowledge of English is
required and French language proficiency would be an asset.

Funding is assured by the Swiss National Science Foundation for a
maximum of four years.  The PhD candidate will be based at the
University of Neuchatel, under the supervision of Edith Joseph. The
PhD candidate will be registered at a doctoral programme from CUSO
"Conference universitaire de Suisse occidentale" of which the
University of Neuchatel is member.

The University of Neuchatel is an equal opportunity employer.

Please send your complete application including a letter of
interest, curriculum vitae with a list of publications, copies of
diplomas and work certificates, and the names and contact
information of two references to Edith Joseph
<edithjoseph<-at->unine<.>ch>.

Application deadline: July 31, 2016
Short-list selection: August 1-7, 2016
Phone interview: August 8, 2016
Final decision and communication of approval: August 9-10, 2016
PhD start: September 1, 2016

For further information about the vacancy please contact

    Dr. Edith Joseph
    SNSF Professor - Assistant Professor
    Universite de Neuchatel`
    Rue Emile-Argand 11
    CH - 2000 Neuchatel
    +41 32 718 22 35
    edith.joseph<-at->unine<.>ch


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                  Conservation DistList Instance 30:7
                  Distributed: Saturday, July 2, 2016
                        Message Id: cdl-30-7-021
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