Summary
Umeå University is recruiting a PhD student for a four-year, full-time research position within the Department of Chemistry. This basic-research project focuses on radiation-induced processes at oxide–water interfaces in collaboration with the KTH Royal Institute of Technology. The position offers full social benefits and a salary set in accordance with established university levels for PhD roles.
PhD Position in Inorganic Chemistry at Umeå University, Sweden
Key Information
| Detail | Description |
| Designation | PhD Student (Doctoral Studies) |
| Research Area | Inorganic Chemistry / Physical Chemistry (Radiation-induced processes at oxide–water interfaces) |
| Location | Umeå, Sweden |
| Employment Type | Temporary position (4 years full-time, or up to 5 years if teaching part-time) |
| Application Deadline | August 15, 2026 |
Research Area & Project Description
Radiation-induced chemical processes and spectroscopy at oxide–water interfaces within the nuclear fuel cycle.
The thesis project investigates radiation-induced processes at various oxide–water interfaces throughout the nuclear fuel cycle (from reprocessing to final disposal). Ionizing radiation causes water radiolysis, creating free radicals and reactive molecules that affect corrosion rates and radionuclide release.
The PhD student will combine time-resolved and multimodal X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XANES, EXAFS) at synchrotron facilities like MAX IV with theoretical molecular modeling. The work will be based in the Molecular Geochemistry research group at Umeå University.
Eligibility & Qualifications
To be considered for admission, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- General Eligibility: A second-cycle level degree (Master’s), or completed course requirements of at least 240 ECTS credits (with at least 60 ECTS credits at the second-cycle level), or equivalent foreign education.
- Specific Eligibility: At least 90 ECTS credits within the field of chemistry (or a directly relevant subject), including at least 15 ECTS credits acquired at the second-cycle level within the specialization.
- Core Skills: Meticulous nature, logical thinking, strong problem-solving abilities, and excellent proficiency in oral and written English.
- Preferred Merits: Prior coursework in inorganic or physical chemistry; hands-on experience with experimental spectroscopy/diffraction (XAS, XRD, FTIR, XPS); experience with molecular modeling (MD/MC, DFT); and basic programming skills (Python, MATLAB, Linux/HPC systems).
Job Description
- Main Tasks: Pursue doctoral studies, complete postgraduate coursework, and conduct specialized research toward a doctoral degree.
- Departmental Duties: May include teaching or other departmental tasks up to 20% of full-time hours.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted electronically through the Varbi e-recruitment system by clicking the apply button on the Umeå University official vacancy page.
Your application must be written in English or Swedish and include:
- A personal letter (max 2 pages) explaining your motivation and how your qualifications align with the project.
- A Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Copies of degree certificates and diplomas, including transcripts of completed courses and grades.
- Copies of your advanced-level student thesis or other relevant publications.
- Contact information for at least two reference persons.
Last Date to Apply
- Deadline: August 15, 2026
- Earliest Start Date: October 1, 2026 (or by agreement, latest January 31, 2027)
