A doctoral student in Ecotechnology and Environmental science

Description of the department
The Department of Natural Sciences, Design, and Sustainable Development is located on the Östersund and Sundsvall campuses, focusing on education and research in sustainability-related subjects.

Ecotechnology and Environmental Science at Mid Sweden University explores the interdisciplinary study of human societies interacting with nature, emphasizing the development of systems for the sustainable use of natural resources. The research approach is interdisciplinary, often systems-oriented where suitable.

The Cirkulär Biomassa 3.0 project addresses Sweden's dependence on imported fertilizers, feed, and food, while energy production needs to be adapted to new requirements, fossil fuels phased out, and greenhouse gas emissions significantly reduced. With support from municipalities, county administrations, and companies in the region, the project focuses on research in clean environments and sustainable local production of food and energy. By using unwanted biomass from industry and society, the project develops sustainable processes to extract metals and to produce energy and ingredients for food and feed using plants and microorganisms such as yeast, fungi, algae, and bacteria. At the same time, the possibility of removing harmful substances such as PAHs, PFAS, PCBs, and heavy metals is being explored, paving the way for local industrial production with reduced environmental impact.

Job description
The PhD candidate will conduct research within the Circular Biomass 3.0 project, focusing on innovative methods for utilizing waste streams and converting them into high-value products. The work involves experiments on sewage sludge and other residual streams in laboratory settings. The experiments will evaluate the ability of plants and algae to clean raw materials of toxic substances such as PFAS, microplastics, pharmaceutical residues, and heavy metals, while also transforming them into usable products. The research includes designing and performing laboratory and pilot-scale experiments and conducting chemical and biological analyses of the treated materials.

Independent third-cycle studies encompassing research (80-100%), teaching and administrative tasks (0-20%).

Entry requirements
General entry requirements include a second-cycle level qualification, or fulfilment of courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits must be at second-cycle level, or the equivalent knowledge gained in some other way in Sweden or abroad. Specific entry requirements include at least 90 credits in the subject of Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering or the equivalent knowledge gained in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

Assessment criteria
Applicants with knowledge in microbiology, biotechnology, cultivation, environmental chemistry, and/or ecotoxicology, along with experience in fieldwork, laboratory work, statistics, and data analysis, will be prioritized. Experience in bioremediation (using microorganisms and plants to clean soil, sludge, and other materials) is a merit.

Personal qualities
In addition to academic expertise, emphasis will be placed on creativity, teamwork, initiative, the ability to work independently, and suitability for doctoral studies.

Other assessment criteria
Proficiency in spoken and written English is required. Proficiency in Swedish is an additional merit.

Employment process
Processing of the appointment will comply with the provisions in Chapter 5 of the Higher Education Ordinance, and will be carried out in accordance with Mid Sweden University’s Employment Procedures.

Terms of employment
The doctoral studentship position corresponds to two years of full-time studies and is expected to lead to a Degree of Licentiate. The position can be extended to a Degree of Doctor provided that further funding is obtained. The entry date is 24-02-2025 or as agreed.

Initial doctoral student positions are valid for a maximum of one year, after which the position may be renewed by no longer than two years at a time. Provisions regarding doctoral studentship employment can be found in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), Chapter 5, Sections 1-7.

Place of employment: Östersund

Salary: In accordance with Mid Sweden University’s salary scale for doctoral students.  

Information
For more detailed information contact the assistant Head of department, Håkan Wiklund, hakan.wiklund@miun.se or Associate professor Erik Grönlund, erik.grönlund@miun.se.

Application
Applications should be in Swedish or English and include a CV, transcripts of previous education, and a statement outlining your research interests, vision, and goals.

Please send in your application through our recruitment system no later than 25-02-04.