Summary:
A four-year doctoral position in Chemistry with a specialization in inorganic chemistry is available at the Department of Chemistry, Umeå University, in collaboration with KTH Royal Institute of Technology. The project focuses on radiation-induced processes at oxide–water interfaces, using advanced multimodal X-ray spectroscopy (XANES, EXAFS, etc.) at synchrotron facilities and theoretical molecular modeling. Starting date: 1 October 2026 (earliest), no later than 31 January 2027. Application deadline: 15 August 2026.
PhD Position in Chemistry (Specialization in Inorganic Chemistry) at Umeå University, Sweden
Designation:
PhD Position in Chemistry (Specialization in Inorganic Chemistry)
Table:
- Position: PhD student (Doctoral Studies)
- Field: Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry
- Location: Umeå, Sweden
- Employer: Umeå University, Department of Chemistry; in collaboration with KTH Royal Institute of Technology
- Employment Type: Temporary, four years full-time (up to five years with teaching)
- Start Date: 1 October 2026 (earliest) to 31 January 2027 (latest)
- Application Deadline: 15 August 2026
- Salary: According to PhD salary levels
- Benefits: Parental leave, holiday leave, occupational health services
Research Area:
Radiation-induced processes at oxide–water interfaces within the nuclear fuel cycle, including radiation-induced radiolysis of water, effects on corrosion rates, radionuclide release, and material properties. Combines time-resolved, multimodal X-ray spectroscopy at synchrotron facilities (e.g., MAXIV) with theoretical molecular modeling (MD/MC, DFT). Collaborative project with KTH Royal Institute of Technology, funded by Vetenskapsrådet (Swedish Research Council).
Location:
Umeå University, Department of Chemistry, Umeå, Sweden. Physical workplace located in Umeå.
Eligibility/Qualification:
- General: Eligibility for third-cycle (PhD) studies in Chemistry; meeting formal entry requirements by admission time.
- Specific prerequisites: At least 90 ECTS credits in chemistry (including at least 15 ECTS at second-cycle level within the specialization or relevant subject), and at least 60 ECTS at second-cycle level for admission (or equivalent abroad). Combination of degrees and coursework that provides essentially equivalent knowledge is acceptable.
- Language: Good oral and written proficiency in English.
- Preferred qualifications (merits):
- Interest in inorganic or physical chemistry (≥15 ECTS) at advanced level
- Practical experience with experimental spectroscopy or diffraction techniques (XAS, XRD, FTIR, XPS)
- Experience with molecular modeling (MD/MC, DFT)
- Familiarity with programming (Python, MATLAB) and Linux/HPC systems
- Collaborative skills, initiative, independence
- Other: The candidate should be meticulous with strong problem-solving abilities.
Job Description:
- Primary task: Pursue doctoral studies and participate in research and doctoral training courses.
- Secondary tasks: Teaching and other departmental duties up to 20%.
- Duration: 48 months full-time, with potential extension to 60 months for teaching duties.
- Activities: Research project execution, integration of experimental and theoretical methods, collaboration with KTH, participation in PhD courses, potential publications, and presenting results.
- Environment: Work within the Molecular Geochemistry research group; opportunities to engage with synchrotron facilities (MAXIV) and collaborate with KTH researchers and students.
How to Apply:
- Application portal: Umeå University e-recruitment system Varbi.
- Required documents (in English or Swedish):
- Personal letter (max 2 pages) describing motivation, qualifications, and relevance to the project
- Curriculum vitae
- Copies of degree certificates, diplomas, and documentation of completed courses (including grades)
- Copies of master’s thesis or other publications
- Contact information for at least two references
- Contact for further information: Associate Professor Michael Holmboe (michael.holmboe@umu.se)
- Application language: English or Swedish
- Language considerations: Ensure all eligibility criteria are met by the admission deadline; submission can occur even if some requirements are pending at application time.
Last Date for Apply:
15 August 2026
Notes:
- Start date is October 2026 at the earliest, with a latest possible start by January 31, 2027.
- The position is part of a collaboration with KTH and funded by the Swedish Research Council (Vetenskapsrådet).
- Equal opportunity statement: Umeå University promotes an equal environment and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds.
