Vacant job

Department of Molecular Sciences

Doctoral Programme: Chemistry

Description of the PhD Project:

Would you like to work on a project aimed at replacing fossil sources with forest raw materials for the production of biomaterials? Are you interested in delving into molecular interactions at the atomic level using advanced analytical instruments? Do you want to work alongside a group of researchers who share these interests? If so, this PhD position may be for you.

The overarching goal of this PhD project is to enzymatically modify glycans from hemicellulose to produce bio-based cross-linkers for applications in adhesives, hydrogels, and other cross-linked materials. However, many materials considered bio-based, such as wood fiberboards, hydrogels, and stabilizers from non-fossil polymers, still rely on cross-linkers of fossil origin that are often highly harmful chemicals. Fiberboards for furniture, construction, and insulation typically contain approximately 9% adhesive consisting of urea-formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is classified as a known human carcinogen, and its emission from fiberboards is a significant problem.

Oxidative enzymes will be used on hemicellulose substrates, such as xyloglucan and glucomannan, to obtain aldehyde and ketone groups on the sugar ring parallel to a partial breakdown into oligosaccharides. The expected result is a collection of non-toxic, bio-based cross-linkers that can potentially replace formaldehyde and similar fossil-based cross-linkers.

Responsibilities:

You will be part of a research group conducting research in organic chemistry and biotechnology, focusing on the structural analysis of enzymes and carbohydrate substrates using NMR spectroscopy, as well as the development of new methods to study interactions between proteins and carbohydrates using NMR spectroscopy.

The project involves extensive laboratory work and will be carried out at an advanced level of characterization using NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry to draw conclusions about the structural composition of the cross-linkers and the cross-linked materials. To achieve these goals while ensuring a productive and enriching environment, the project includes supervision in organic chemistry, enzymology, and wood technology. The position also includes teaching duties up to 20% of the time.

Qualifications:

Basic eligibility is held by those who have completed an advanced level degree, fulfilled course requirements of at least 240 credits, of which at least 60 credits at the advanced level, or who have otherwise acquired substantially equivalent knowledge within or outside the country (Higher Education Ordinance, Chapter 7, Section 39).

Special eligibility to be admitted to the doctoral programme in chemistry is held by those who have equivalent to at least 60 credits in chemistry at the basic level (general, analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry as well as biochemistry) and subject-specific studies at the advanced level of at least 30 credits.

Additionally, you are required to have English language skills equivalent to a passing grade in English B/6 from a Swedish upper secondary school.

Your Background:

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a master's degree in a field relevant to the position, such as organic chemistry, biotechnology, molecular biology, or equivalent. A focus on biochemistry or organic chemistry with experience in laboratory work is a valuable asset, as is experience with NMR spectroscopy and/or protein expression and purification. Great importance is attached to personal qualities such as teamwork, analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and the ability to work independently. Good command of English (both spoken and written) is required.

About Us:

You will be based in the field of organic chemistry at the Department of Molecular Sciences, SLU, Uppsala. The department consists of approximately 100 employees and, together with three other departments, forms an inspiring research environment at BioCentrum on the Ultuna campus in Uppsala. BioCentrum offers broad expertise in plant biology, plant pathology, plant genetics, mycology, microbiology, food science, chemistry, and biotechnology. We have access to advanced infrastructure such as fermentation labs, advanced microscopy, X-ray diffraction, mass spectrometry, and NMR spectroscopy. The department conducts research and teaching in chemistry, biotechnology, food science, and microbiology. Our research projects include, among other things, enzymatic degradation of forest raw materials, production of fish feed from yeast fungi, programmed cell death in plants, and biogas production. Visit us at https://www.slu.se/institutioner/molekylara-vetenskaper/ (https://www.slu.se/institutioner/molekylara-vetenskaper/).

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at SLU at https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/ (https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/).

Read more about SLU's doctoral education at http://www.slu.se/utbildning/program-kurser/forskarutbildning/ (http://www.slu.se/utbildning/program-kurser/forskarutbildning/).

Employment Type and Salary:

Employment as a PhD student (4 years of education).

The salary for the PhD position follows a local collective agreement with fixed salary steps.

Extent:

100%

Location:

Uppsala

Start Date:

By agreement, but no later than December 2026.

Application and Selection:

Submit your application via the button below by 2026-08-05.

Read more about the attachments your application should include at https://www.slu.se/utbildning/studera/forskarutbildning/hur-kan-jag-bli-doktorand/ansokan-och-bilagor/ (https://www.slu.se/utbildning/studera/forskarutbildning/hur-kan-jag-bli-doktorand/ansokan-och-bilagor/).

Selection among eligible applicants is based on the attachments included in the application and should take into account the ability to complete the education within the specified time.

Union Representatives

https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/ (https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/)

Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) plays a key role in the development of sustainable living, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interactions between humans, animals, and ecosystems, and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. The main campuses are in Alnarp, Umeå, and Uppsala, but operations are also conducted at research stations, test parks, and educational sites throughout the country. SLU has over 4,000 employees, 6,000 students and doctoral students, and a turnover of over 4.5 billion SEK. The university invests in attractive environments on its campus areas. We work for an equal and inclusive work environment where open dialogue between people with different experiences lays the foundation for scientific rigor, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome people with different backgrounds and perspectives to apply for the current position.