Mid Sweden University is looking for postdoctoral researcher in chemistry

The subject of Chemistry at Mid Sweden University is defined as the knowledge of the properties, structure, and reactions of chemical substances, their occurrence and effects on the environment, and their use in solving technical and scientific problems.

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.

Tasks 
The Ecochemistry Group is now seeking a postdoctoral researcher to the aforementioned project. The work taskt will mainly involve developing methods to produce bioenergy using bacteria, algae, yeast, and rot fungi through fermentation processes of side streams from industries such as brewing, pulp, and paper production. Additionally, fiber bank materials and other waste material will also be utilized. Analytical methods for characterizing side streams and products will form part of the duties. The project involves handling live microorganisms, making sterile work an important component of the role. Teaching or other departmental work, up to 20%, may be included.

Eligibility
The person who is to be employed as a postdoctoral fellow must be eligible according to the requirements described in Mittuniversitet's employment regulations.  We are looking for a candidate with a PhD in chemistry, for instance in biochemistry or analytical chemistry or a related field relevant to the tasks, such as bioenergy, microbiology or biotechnology.

Assessment grounds 
The applicant should have documented experience in method development for fermentation processes, preferably involving bioreactors. You should be able to analyze and quantify volatile compounds such as biohydrogen, methane, and bioalcohols using MS-GAS and GC-TCD, as well as identify and quantify organic molecules using methods such as GC-MS and LC-MS. Experience in the pretreatment of lignocellulosic materials, chromatography, isolation, derivatization, and chemical analysis is considered meritorious. Experience with analysis and quantification of sugars, proteins, amino acids, and fatty acids is particularly valuable. Demonstrated experience in sterile techniques, microbiology, and the cultivation of fungi, algae, bacteria, or yeast will be considered a significant qualification for this position. Proficiency in statistical methods relevant to the research field is meritorous.

Personal Characteristics
In addition to relevant subject knowledge, independence, initiative, and a strong ability to plan and organize your work are valued. As a postdoctoral researcher, you are expected to be goal and result oriented, with a focus on delivering high-quality results. Since you will be part of a larger project, it is also important that you have excellent collaboration skills and enjoy working in a team.

Other assessment grounds 
Applicants should have a good ability to express themselves in spoken and written English. Good knowledge of spoken and written Swedish is meritorious. You are expected to have solid experience working with the Office suite and statistical software.

Processing 
The employment is prepared in accordance with Mittuniversitet's employment regulations.

Employment and access 
This is a full-time position (100%) for 2 years from 01-03-2025 or as agreed.

The terms of employment are regulated in an agreement on limited-term employment as a postdoctoral fellow.

Place of employment: Sundsvall
  

Information 
More detailed information is provided by the assistant head of Department, Erika Wallin, erika.wallin@miun.se  or Professor Erik Hedenström, erik.hedenstrom@miun.se.

Application 
Application documents should be in Swedish or English. A CV, certified copies of degree certificates, certificates from previous education, and a statement of your research interests, visions, and goals should be attached.

Welcome with your application via our recruitment system by 04-02-2025 at the latest.