Summary
Umeå University is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher in Environmental Chemistry. This full-time, two-year temporary position focuses on the recovery of carbon and organic material from hydrothermal carbonization filtrates, specifically investigating the formation of self-generated carbon (SGC). The project is part of the larger RE-FIL initiative, aiming to transform HTC filtrate from a waste product into a valuable resource. The successful candidate will join the Environmental Chemistry group at the Department of Chemistry, a collaborative and international research environment.
Designation
Postdoctoral Researcher
Research Area
- Environmental Chemistry
- Hydrothermal Carbonization (HTC)
- Recovery of carbon and organic material from filtrates
- Self-generated carbon (SGC) formation
- Filtrate chemistry and characterization
Location
Umeå, Sweden (Umeå University, Department of Chemistry)
Eligibility/Qualification
Required Qualifications
- A doctoral degree (or equivalent foreign degree) in chemistry, environmental chemistry, materials chemistry, chemical engineering, or a closely related subject. The degree must be completed no later than the time of appointment decision.
- Priority will be given to candidates who completed their doctoral degree no more than three years prior to the application deadline, though exceptions for special reasons (e.g., illness, parental leave) may apply.
- Documented experience in designing and performing experimental laboratory work in chemistry.
- Documented experience in chemical or material characterization using instrumental analytical techniques, specifically including at least one of the following: chromatography–mass spectrometry (e.g., LC-MS/MS, GC-MS), elemental analysis (e.g., ICP-MS), or surface and material characterization (e.g., BET, FTIR, XPS, SEM).
- Very good command of English, both spoken and written.
- Documented ability to publish scientific results, typically demonstrated by first-author publications in peer-reviewed international journals.
Desirable Qualifications
- Experience with hydrothermal carbonization or other thermochemical conversion techniques.
- Experience with experimental work at elevated temperature and pressure, or at pilot scale.
- Experience in surface chemistry and material characterization, or aqueous-phase organic chemistry.
- Experience from an interdisciplinary or international research environment.
- Strong planning and organizational skills, self-driven initiative, problem-solving mindset, and collaborative approach.
- Clear communication skills in speech and writing.
Job Description
The postdoctoral researcher will work on a project focused on the recovery of carbon and organic material from hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) filtrates. The main objective is to understand the formation of self-generated carbon (SGC) – low-ash carbon microspheres with promising properties for energy storage and environmental applications – and how filtrate chemistry governs this process.
Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting experimental laboratory work to investigate SGC formation and filtrate chemistry.
- Characterizing filtrates and products using various chromatographic, spectroscopic, and microscopic techniques.
- Contributing to the interface between SGC recovery and microbial production of biodegradable plastics (PHA) in collaboration with partners at Karlstad University.
- Participating in the RE-FIL project, funded by Formas, which aims to turn HTC filtrate into a resource.
- Collaborating with the Environmental Chemistry group and other project partners.
- Some work may be carried out at Karlstad University.
The main advisor for this position is Prof. Stina Jansson, with Assoc. Prof. Maria Sandberg (Karlstad University) as co-advisor.
How to Apply
A complete application must be submitted through Umeå University’s electronic recruitment system by the specified deadline. Documents sent electronically must be in Word or PDF format.
The application should include:
- Cover letter (maximum two pages): Describe your qualifications, previous research experience, and how they align with the advertised project. Clearly state your motivation for applying.
- Curriculum vitae (CV): Include a comprehensive publication list.
- Doctoral degree certificate: A verified copy, or documentation clarifying the expected date of degree completion.
- Other diplomas: Verified copies, including a list of completed academic courses and grades.
- Additional documents: Any other materials the applicant wishes to include to support their application.
The application must be written in English or Swedish.
For further details, please contact Prof. Stina Jansson (phone: +46-90 786 76 22, email: stina.jansson@umu.se).
References will be requested prior to a potential interview.
Last Date for Apply
November 30, 2026
