Researcher with focus on development of a PINN model for pulping industry Full-time NEW

Researcher with Focus on Development of a PINN Model for Pulping Industry

Uppsala University, Disciplinary Domain of Science and Technology, Faculty of Technology, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, 202100-2932

At the Division of Applied Mechanics, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Uppsala University

Temporary full-time position for 9 months, starting as agreed upon

Join us!

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering aims to be an environment for successful and valuable research and education with a focus on materials science solutions for important societal challenges. Our department is an exciting workplace with research in a broad technology-related area, from basic research to large-scale applied research, and close contacts with students through the department's involvement in engineering, bachelors and master's programs. Our research and teaching are conducted within seven divisions with different research focuses, as well as a division that provides support and service. The department is an international place to work, and has around 230 active co-workers.

About the division

The Division of Applied Mechanics is part of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the Ångström Laboratory. We conduct research in experimental and computational mechanics with application areas primarily within the life sciences, materials and structural development, and energy-related fields. The research carried out is multidisciplinary and ranges from applied projects in close collaboration with industry to academic fundamental research. A doctoral degree in the field provides many exciting future opportunities both in academia and in industry, nationally as well as internationally.

Project description

In this project, a digital modelling tool is being developed that links molecular simulations of lignin with process models for pulping. Using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, the study analyses how the chemical structure of lignin affects accessibility, packing, and transport properties at the microscopic level. The MD results are integrated into a Physics-Informed Neural Network (PINN), where established physical relationships for diffusion, reaction, and mass balance are embedded in the model. The PINN model thus serves as an upscaling tool that translates molecular differences in the raw material into process-relevant parameters at the digester level. The project is carried out in collaboration with companies in the forest industry.

Duties

You are responsible for developing a PINN model based on results from MD simulations. You start from measurable, industrially relevant process parameters and optimize these by integrating results from atomistic modelling into a physics-informed neural network (PINN). Examples of industrial process parameters that may be relevant include kappa number, pulp yield, and chemical consumption.

The tasks also include written documentation and communication of research results, as well as presentations at informal seminars and collaboration with the forest industry.

Qualification requirements

For employment as a researcher, you must hold a doctoral degree, or a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a doctoral degree.

For this position we require:

• A doctoral degree in computational chemistry, materials science, engineering/theoretical physics, or an equivalent degree in a related field is required.
• Documented knowledge and experience in molecular dynamics simulations.
• Excellent written and oral proficiency in English,
• Strong skills in writing scientific publications.

Additional qualifications

Experience with MD simulations of wood polymers Documented knowledge of processes in a pulp mill Programming skills Experience in collaboration between industry and academia Experience with PINN modeling or other machine learning methods

Great emphasis will be placed on your personal qualities. You must be self-driven, proactive, and capable of independently planning and managing projects. Furthermore, you should be structured and able to work efficiently both independently and in a team, as well as have strong collaboration and communication skills in interdisciplinary environments.

Your application must include

• A short letter of description of yourself, why are you interested in joining this project, and why you are suitable for this position
• CV (maximum 2 pages)
• Copy of the PhD, master's degree (or equivalent) and academic transcripts
• Publication list. Mark the most relevant publications for the position and comment your contribution to those publications.
• Names and contact details of at least two reference persons who have accepted to give their references. It must also be stated what relationship you have had with the respective referee.

During the application period, we will continuously read application documents and call for interviews

About the employment

The position is a temporary position for 9 months. Scope of employment: 100%. Starting date by agreement. Placement: Uppsala

For further information about the position, please contact: Associate professor Malin Wohlert malin.wohlert@angstrom.uu.se

Please submit your application no later than 10th May 2026, UFV-PA 2026/1156

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international position. The ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a difference in society. Our most important asset is all of our 7,600 employees and 53,000 students who, with curiosity and commitment, make Uppsala University one of Sweden's most exciting workplaces.

The position may be subject to security vetting. If security vetting is conducted, the applicant must pass the vetting process to be eligible for employment.