Summary
The Faculty of Biosciences and Aquaculture (FBA) at Nord University, in collaboration with the Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research (NIBIO), invites applications for a 3- to 4-year fully funded PhD fellowship. The position focuses on investigating the chemical diversity and biological activity of phenolic compounds (such as phlorotannins and catechins) from cold-adapted macroalgae, exploring their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to address chronic intestinal inflammation.
Key Information Overview
| Attribute | Details |
| Position Title / Designation | PhD Position in Biochemical Bioprospecting of Macroalgae (Doctoral Researcher, Code 1017) |
| Host Institution | Nord University (Faculty of Biosciences and Aquaculture) & NIBIO |
| Location | Bodø, Norway |
| Employment Type | Full-time (100%), Fixed-term (3 or 4 years) |
| Remuneration / Salary | NOK 565,000 per year (gross) |
| Application Deadline | September 10, 2026 |
Designation
- Doctoral Researcher / PhD Fellow (Position Code 1017)
Research Area
- Biochemical Bioprospecting & Natural Products Chemistry
- Marine Biotechnology / Macroalgae (Seaweed) Chemistry
- Analytical Chemistry (HPLC, LC-MS, LC-MS/QTOF characterization)
- Molecular Cell Biology & Immunology (In vitro cell models, anti-inflammatory mechanisms, chronic intestinal inflammation)
Location
- Universitetsalléen 11, 8026 Bodø, Norway (Nord University campus in collaboration with NIBIO research divisions)
Eligibility & Qualifications
- Academic Degree: Master’s degree (MSc) in biosciences, biochemistry, cell biology, or a closely related discipline.
- Academic Performance: Minimum grade average of B or higher (or equivalent score) across both the master’s programme overall and the master’s thesis.
- Non-EU/EEA Degrees: Foreign applicants outside EU/EEA must provide formal degree recognition approval from HK-dir.
- Technical Experience:
- Experience with seaweed chemistry, biomass handling, culturing, and extraction is highly advantageous.
- Practical background in analytical instrumentation (HPLC, LC-MS, LC-MS/QTOF) or molecular/cell biology assays.
- Language Proficiency: Strong written and oral English communication skills (thesis must be written in English). Knowledge of a Scandinavian language is an asset.
- Prior Degree Restriction: Candidates who already hold a PhD degree are not eligible.
Scholarship / Fellowship Description & Benefits
- Gross Annual Salary: NOK 565,000 according to state salary scale (Code 1017).
- Social Benefits: Membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund (Statens pensjonskasse) covering pension schemes, insurance, and favorable home loan rates.
- Workplace Environment: Flexible working hours, modern laboratory facilities, interdisciplinary supervision, and university sports and welfare programs.
- Scientific Scope: Characterize complex phenolic fractions, elucidate structure-function relationships, and test bioactive effects using model systems and cellular platforms.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted electronically via the official job portal (Jobbnorge / NAV Arbeidsplassen). All documents must be uploaded as PDF files:
- Cover Letter: Stating research background, professional interests, and motivation for pursuing the PhD.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detail education, employment history, teaching experience, and publications.
- Project Proposal (Max 3 pages): Outlining research ideas, theoretical framework, methodological approach, and a 3-year timeline aligned with the topic. (Include an AI-usage declaration at the end if generative AI tools were used).
- Academic Transcripts & Diplomas: Scanned copies of Bachelor’s and Master’s diplomas, including official grade transcripts and HK-dir approval (if applicable).
- Master’s Thesis: Full PDF copy of the completed MSc thesis.
- References: Contact details (name, relationship, email, phone number) for 2–3 academic or professional referees.
Last Date for Application
- September 10, 2026 (23:59 CET)
