Are you ready to take the next step in your academic journey? As a doctoral student with us, you’ll work closely with leading researchers in a strong, international research environment, with access to advanced lab equipment and excellent funding opportunities. You’ll be offered secure employment, high-quality supervision, and the opportunity to grow, both as a researcher and as a person.
The Biochemical Process Engineering research group, part of the Department of Civil Engineering and Natural Resources 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 is continuously expanding its research activities. Currently, our group consists of 30 staff members and several undergraduate students. Learn more about our research here: https://www.ltu.se/forskning/forskningsamnen/biokemisk-processteknik.
We are now seeking a doctoral student who wants to be part of our research focused on new methods for valorizing 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 processing of chemicals, fuels, and materials from biomass.
Project Description
This doctoral 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—including both cultivated filamentous green algae and harvested invasive species—through sustainable biorefinery processes combined with regulatory analysis to facilitate future implementation.
The work involves the isolation and cultivation of native algal species, integration of CO₂/pH control to increase biomass productivity, application of hydrothermal pretreatment for anaerobic digestion, and enzymatic saccharification to produce biogas and valuable products. In parallel, governance, permitting processes, and policy frameworks are analyzed to ensure a legally sound 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 https://www.ltu.se/forskning/sun---natural-resources-for-sustainable-societal-transformation/about-sun. The doctoral 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.”
Job Responsibilities
As a doctoral student, you will be trained in scientific thinking and writing. The work is problem-focused and will equip you with the skills to identify, define, formulate, and solve challenges of both a practical and theoretical nature. You will also develop the ability to address complex theoretical and analytical issues and integrate them 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 advisors, and disseminate your results through publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals and through presentations at national and international conferences. Your program will also include advanced courses tailored to your research area. In addition, you will have the opportunity to gain teaching experience.
QualificationsTo be eligible for this position, you must hold a Master of Science in Engineering or a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Environmental Engineering, or an equivalent field. A specialization in environmental processes or biochemical processes is desirable.
Previous research or laboratory experience in biochemical process engineering, biological treatment processes, enzyme-based bioconversion, or biomass processing is a plus. Relevant experience may, for example, include the production and characterization of enzymes, the use of bioreactors, biomass pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis, anaerobic digestion, or the cultivation of microorganisms or aquatic biomass. Experience with relevant analytical methods and the evaluation of experimental data is also a plus.
Previous experience in communicating scientific results, both orally and in writing, is a strong asset. A collaborative attitude and the ability to work in teams and on interdisciplinary projects are also desirable.
For further information about the doctoral program, see: https://www.ltu.se/forskning/utbildning-pa-forskarniva/forskningsamnen-och-allmanna-studieplaner/tekniskt-vetenskapsomrade-allmanna-studieplaner.
Information
Employment as a doctoral student is limited to 4 years; teaching and other departmental duties may be added up to 20% of full-time hours. Location: Luleå. Start date: As soon as possible. Salary according to local guidelines.
For more information, please contact:
Paul Christakopoulos, Professor and Department Chair of Biochemical Process Engineering, 0920-492510, paul.christakopoulos@ltu.se
Ulrika Rova, Professor of Biochemical Process Engineering, 0920-491315, ulrika.rova@ltu.se
Alok Kumar Patel, Associate Professor of Biochemical Process Engineering, 0920-491570, alok.kumar.patel@ltu.se
Union Representative:
SACO-S Diana Chroneer, 0920-49 2037, diana.chroneer@ltu.seOFR-S
Marika Vesterberg, 0920-49 1721, marika.vesterberg@ltu.se
Application
We prefer that you apply for the position using the application button below, where you should attach a cover letter, your resume, and copies of your verified diplomas. Please be sure to include the reference number below in your application. Both the application and your degree certificates must be written in Swedish or English.
Application deadline: November 24, 2026
Reference number: 5514-2026