An exciting fully funded PhD position is available at the Department of Chemistry, Umeå University, Sweden. This position bridges laboratory-based cryogenic spectroscopy with data from ongoing and upcoming NASA and ESA Mars missions.
PhD Position in Planetary Biogeochemistry and Spectroscopy, Umeå University, Sweden
📋 Position Overview
| Category | Details |
| Designation | PhD Student / Doctoral Position |
| Research Area | Planetary Biogeochemistry, Astrobiology, and Spectroscopy |
| Location | Umeå, Sweden (Physical workplace) |
| Employment Type | Temporary position (100% full-time) |
| Duration | 4 years of full-time doctoral studies (up to 5 years if teaching part-time) |
| Application Deadline | July 31, 2026 |
| Expected Start Date | October 2026 (No later than December 15, 2026) |
🔍 Project & Job Description
The thesis project focuses on experimental investigations into how water and simple organic molecules are captured and preserved under the icy, salty conditions of present-day Mars.
Key Responsibilities & Opportunities:
- Use cutting-edge cryogenic vibrational spectroscopy and microscopy techniques to build a unique spectral and imaging database of Mars analogue soils.
- Link laboratory findings to spacecraft mission data (e.g., SuperCam, SHERLOC, CheMin, REMS).
- Collaborate directly and conduct experiments at local infrastructures in Umeå as well as with international collaborators at the SETI Institute, NASA Ames Research Center (CA), and NASA Johnson Space Center (TX).
- Participate in postgraduate courses, research seminars, and departmental work (including teaching up to 20%).
🎓 Eligibility & Qualifications
General Entry Requirements
- A second-cycle level degree (Master’s degree), OR
- Completed course requirements of at least 240 ECTS credits (with at least 60 ECTS credits at the second-cycle/Master’s level), OR
- An equivalent education/qualification from abroad.
Specific Requirements
- At least 90 ECTS credits within the field of chemistry or a directly relevant subject.
- At least 15 ECTS credits must be at the second-cycle level within the specialization.
- Very good proficiency in both written and spoken English.
- Documented experience in laboratory research, including sample preparation and working with geological materials and organics.
- Knowledge of spectroscopy and/or scanning/transmission electron microscopy techniques.
Preferred Merits
- Experience in spectral data analysis using Python, R, or Matlab.
- A background in planetary science, astrobiology, mineralogy, or geochemistry.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
💼 Benefits
As an employee at Umeå University, PhD students receive full social benefits, including:
- Paid parental leave and holiday leave.
- Occupational health services.
- A competitive salary set in accordance with established Swedish university salary levels for PhD positions.
✉️ How to Apply
Applications must be submitted electronically through the Umeå University e-recruitment system (Varbi). The application can be written in English or Swedish and must include:
- Personal Letter: A brief statement (max 2 pages) explaining why you are applying and how your qualifications match the project.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Degree Certificates/Diplomas: Copies of academic transcripts and grades obtained.
- Student Thesis: Copies of your advanced-level student thesis or relevant publications.
- References: Contact information for at least two reference persons.
To submit your application, visit the official vacancy page and click the application button:
👉 Apply for the PhD Position at Umeå University
For Further Inquiries: You can contact the lead researcher, Dr. Merve Yeşilbaş, via the email provided on the official portal or explore her team’s work directly at theYeşilbaş Lab.
