Position Summary
Position:
Department:
Department of Civil and Natural Resources Engineering
Institute:
Luleå University of Technology
Country:
Sweden
Research Field:
biotechnology, chemical engineering, biochemical engineering
Posted Date:
Jan 07, 2026
Deadline:
Feb 16, 2026
Offer Period:
NA
Offer Start Date:
ASAP
PhD student in Biochemical Process Engineering
Description:
- We are now looking for a PhD student to be part of our research, focusing on new methods to valorize aquatic biomass to support ecosystem-friendly resource use. Our research is conducted in close collaboration with national and international universities, industries, and research institutes.
Subject description:
- Biochemical Process Engineering focuses on the development of biochemical processes for the production and refinement of chemicals, fuels and material from renewable resources such as biomass.
Project description
- The PhD position is part of the project “Blue Forest for Norrbotten: Valorization of aquatic biomass and Governance Frameworks for Sustainable Deployment”, funded by LTU. The aim is to valoize locally available aquatic biomass, both cultivated filamentous green algae and harvested invasive plants, through sustainable biorefinery processes and supporting regulatory analysis.
- The work includes isolating and cultivating native algae species, integrating CO₂/pH control to enhance biomass productivity, applying hydrothermal pretreatment for anaerobic digestion, and enzymatic saccharification to produce biogas and value-added products. In addition, parallel analysis of governance, permitting, and policy requirements will be conducted to ensure legally robust and sustainable implementation.
- This interdisciplinary project combines biochemical process engineering with environmental law, contributing to regionally relevant, solutions for aquatic-biomass utilization within the SUN Research School. The PhD candidate will also be involved in the EU Sustainable Blue Economy Partnership project “Unlocking the Potential of Seaweeds and Halophytes through Biorefinery for Enhanced Resilience in the Aquaculture Agri-Food and Chemical Industries”.
Duties
- As a PhD student, you will be trained in scientific reasoning and writing. The work is problem-focused, equipping you with skills to identify, define, formulate and solve challenges of both a practical and theoretical nature. You will also develop your skills to work with complex theoretical and analytical issues, integrating them into practical applications.
- The majority of your time will be devoted to your own research project. You will work independently with your research, with the support of your supervisors, and communicate your scientific results in peer-reviewed scientific journals, as well as participate in national and international conferences. Your training will also include advanced-level courses tailored to your research focus. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to gain experience in teaching.
Required Qualification:
Essential Qualification:
- To be considered an eligible applicant, a master's degree in biotechnology, chemical engineering, biochemical engineering or equivalent is required.
Preferred Qualification:
- Previous research experience is an additional merit.
- Prior experience with relevant analytical techniques, biomass characterization, algal or aquatic-plant cultivation, bioprocessing methods (e.g., pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis, anaerobic digestion), or laboratory work involving microbial or algal cultures is also considered a merit.
Employment Conditions and Benefits:
Contract duration:
- Employment as a PhD student is limited to 4 years, teaching and other department duties may be added with max 20%.
Benefits:
- Salary is in accordance with local guidelines.
Application Process:
Documents Required:
- The application should include a CV, personal letter and copies of verified diplomas from high school and universities. Mark your application with the reference number below.
How to apply:
- Check the official page
About the Host Lab Group/Institution:
Luleå University of Technology is in strong growth with world-leading competence in several research areas. We shape the future through innovative education and ground-breaking research results, and based on the Arctic region, we create global social benefit. Our scientific and artistic research and education are conducted in close collaboration with international, national and regional companies, public actors and leading universities. Luleå University of Technology has a total turnover of nearly SEK 2,1 billion per year. We currently have 1,900 employees and 18,700 students. In the coming years, multi-billion investments will be made in large projects in Northern Sweden to create a fossil-free society both nationally and globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these cutting-edge research projects and in the societal transformation that they entail. We offer a broad range of courses and study programmes to match the skills in demand. We hope that you will help us to build the sustainable companies and societies of the future.
Explore Other Similar Positions:
You may also be interested in the following PhD positions. These opportunities are currently open across universities and research institutes worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can apply for a PhD position?
PhD positions are open to candidates who hold, or will soon complete, a relevant Master’s degree or equivalent qualification in a related field. Specific academic requirements may vary depending on the institution and research project.
Can international candidates apply?
Yes. Most PhD positions are open to international applicants. Universities usually provide support for visa applications and residence permits, subject to national regulations.
Is a Master’s degree mandatory for applying to a PhD?
In most cases, a completed Master’s degree is required. However, some institutions may consider exceptional candidates with strong academic backgrounds or integrated Master–PhD programs.
What is the typical duration of a PhD program?
A PhD program typically lasts 3 to 5 years, depending on the country, funding scheme, and research field. Some programs may allow extensions under specific circumstances.
Is the PhD position fully funded?
Most advertised PhD positions are fully funded and include a monthly salary or stipend. Funding details, tuition coverage, and benefits are usually specified in the job description.
Are PhD candidates considered students or employees?
This depends on the country and institution. In many European countries, PhD candidates are employed as staff members, while in others they may be registered as students receiving a stipend.
Are teaching responsibilities included in PhD positions?
Teaching duties vary by institution. Some PhD positions include teaching or lab supervision, while others are research-only. The exact expectations are described in each job advertisement.
Disclaimer:
This position is published for informational purposes. Please refer to the official application link for the most accurate and up-to-date details.