PhD Student in Biochemical Process Engineering

Luleå University of Technology is experiencing strong growth with world-leading expertise in several research areas. We shape the future through innovative education and groundbreaking research results, and from the Arctic region, we create global societal benefits. 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 2.1 billion SEK per year. We currently have 1,900 employees and 18,700 students.

In the coming years, multi-billion investments will be made in Norrbotten and Västerbotten in large projects aimed at a more sustainable society both nationally and globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these highly relevant research projects and the societal transformation that follows. We have a wide range of educational programs to match the skills that are in demand. We hope that you want to help us build the sustainable companies and societies of the future.

The research group in Biochemical Process Engineering, part of the Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering with approximately 350 employees, conducts groundbreaking research in industrial biotechnology. The group is characterized by a strong ambition to be at the forefront of research and continuously expands its research activities. Currently, our group consists of 30 employees and several undergraduate students. Read more about our research here: Biochemical Process Engineering (https://www.ltu.se/research/biokemisk-processteknik).

We are now looking for a PhD student who wants 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, industry partners, and research institutes.

Subject Description

Biochemical process engineering focuses on biochemical processes for the production and refinement of chemicals, fuels, and materials from biomass.

Project Description

The PhD project 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 valorize locally available aquatic biomass, both cultivated filamentous green algae and harvested invasive species, through sustainable biorefinery processes combined with regulatory analysis to facilitate future implementation.

The work includes isolation and cultivation of indigenous algal species, integration of CO₂/pH control to increase biomass productivity, application of hydrothermal pretreatment for digestion, and enzymatic saccharification to produce biogas and valuable products. Concurrently, governance, permitting processes, and policy frameworks are analyzed to ensure a legally robust and sustainable implementation.

This interdisciplinary project combines biochemical process engineering with environmental law and contributes to regionally relevant solutions for the utilization of aquatic biomass within the SUN graduate school. The PhD student will also participate in the EU project within the Sustainable Blue Economy Partnership, “Unlocking the Potential of Seaweeds and Halophytes through Biorefinery for Enhanced Resilience in the Aquaculture Agri-Food and Chemical Industries”.

Responsibilities

As a PhD student, you will be trained in scientific thinking and writing. The work is problem-focused and provides you with skills to identify, define, formulate, and solve challenges of both practical and theoretical nature. You will also develop the ability to handle complex theoretical and analytical questions and integrate these into practical applications.

The majority of your time will be devoted to your own research project. You will work independently on your project, with support from your supervisors, and disseminate your results through publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals and through presentations at national and international conferences. Your education will also include advanced courses tailored to your research area. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to gain teaching experience.

Qualifications

To be eligible for the position, you must have a Master's degree in biotechnology, chemical engineering, biochemical engineering, or a related field.

Previous research experience is an advantage. Experience with relevant analytical methods, biomass characterization, cultivation of algae or aquatic plants, bioprocess methods (e.g., pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis, digestion). Previous experience in disseminating scientific results, both orally and in writing, is also a strong qualification. A collaborative attitude, with the ability to effectively participate in teamwork and interdisciplinary projects, is also seen as a strong merit.

For further information about the doctoral education, see: General study plan for the Faculty Board of Science and Engineering (https://www.ltu.se/education/PhD-programs/naturvetenskap-och-teknik).

Information

Employment as a PhD student is temporary for 4 years, teaching and other departmental duties may be added up to 20% of full-time. Location: Luleå. Start date: As soon as possible. Salary according to local guidelines.

For more information, please feel free to contact:

Paul Christakopoulos, Professor and subject representative for Biochemical Process Engineering, 0920-492510, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])
Ulrika Rova, Professor in Biochemical Process Engineering, 0920-491315, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])
Alok Kumar Patel, Lecturer in Biochemical Process Engineering, 0920-491570, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

Union representatives:
SACO-S Diana Chroneer, 0920-49 2037, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])
OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, 0920-49 1721, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

Application

We prefer that you apply for the position via the application button below where you attach a personal letter and CV/resume and copies of verified degree certificates. Please mark your application with the reference number below. Both the application and degree certificates should be written in Swedish or English.

Application deadline: February 16, 2026

Reference number: 7047-2025