Luleå University of Technology is growing rapidly with world-leading expertise in several research areas. We shape the future through innovative education and groundbreaking research results, and based on the Arctic region, we create global social 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 almost SEK 2.1 billion per year. We are currently 1,900 employees and have 18,700 students. In the coming years, billions of kronor will be invested in Norrbotten and Västerbotten in major projects aimed at a more sustainable society nationally as well as globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these highly topical research projects and the social transformation that follows. We have a wide range of programs to match the skills that are in demand. We hope you will help us build the sustainable businesses and societies of the future. The Biochemical Process Engineering research group is looking for a postdoctoral researcher to participate in research on controlling the molecular composition and aggregate state of lignin for the development of advanced adhesive materials. Subject description Biochemical Process Engineering focuses on biochemical processes for the production and processing of chemicals, fuels and materials from biomass. Project description The research group is responsible for a versatile laboratory with key competences for bio-based products and processes covering biomass pretreatment, fractionation, fermentation, conversion processes, green chemistry, upstream and downstream processes. The research subject is part of the Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering with about 350 employees. It consists of 10 senior researchers and several PhD students. Work tasks The position includes experimental and analytical work focusing on the development of bio-based adhesive materials from lignin and proteins. You will work on controlled lignin extraction with adjustable properties from forest industry residual streams, using advanced organosolv-based fractionation methods. The work also includes extensive structural and molecular characterization of the obtained lignins using multidimensional NMR, GPC, UV/fluorescence spectroscopy and pyrolysis GC/MS. Additional tasks include investigating lignin-protein interactions, solubility and composition to optimize curing and performance of adhesives; studying chromophore arrangements to achieve brighter and more aesthetically pleasing formulations; and extracting lignin-carbohydrate complexes for use in covalent adhesive systems. You will also collaborate with computational chemists to correlate experimental results with molecular models. In addition, you will be expected to contribute to the production of scientific publications and support ongoing research activities by participating in relevant research applications. As a postdoctoral fellow, you will also be expected to participate in the supervision of PhD students, as well as participate in and/or lead the writing of research proposals to national and European research programs. Qualifications To be eligible for employment, you must have a PhD in Biotechnology, or other relevant degree. Strong expertise in organosolv fractionation of biomass for lignin recovery is required, especially in adapting organosolv processes to produce lignins with controlled structure, to be demonstrated by scientific publications. In addition, advanced skills in lignin analysis are required, including proven experience in quantitative NMR (¹³C, ¹H, ¹H-¹³C and ³¹P-NMR), GPC and pyrolysis GC/MS, as evidenced by scientific publications. Previous experience in correlating lignin structure and function, including fractionation of lignin after isolation, is highly desirable. Documented experience in protein extraction from residual streams is also a significant merit. Finally, experience in studying and characterizing lignin aggregation in solution state using light-based methods (absorption and fluorescence) is a strong merit. We are looking for a person with a positive attitude towards research, strong intellect and good work habits. You must be able to work both independently and in a research team. Good observation and communication skills are essential. In addition, you should have a good command of English, both spoken and written. Information about the position Temporary 100% full-time employment for 3 years. Place of employment is Luleå. Appointment as soon as possible, but no later than January 2026 For more information please contact: Dr. Leonidas Matsakas, Assistant Professor of Biochemical Process Engineering, 0920-49-3043, leonidas.matsakas@ltu.se Trade union representatives: SACO-S Diana Chroneer, 0920-49 2037 diana.chroneer@ltu.se OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, 0920-49 1721 marika.vesterberg@ltu.se How to apply We prefer that you apply for the position via the application button below where you attach a cover letter, CV/resume and copies of verified diplomas. Please mark your application with the reference number below. Both the application and the diplomas must be written in Swedish or English. Reference number: 4602-2025 Application deadline: November 9, 2025