Karlstad University is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Chemical Engineering, specialised in experimental research on pulp, paper, and cellulose-based materials. The position is situated within the Department of Engineering and Chemical Sciences and forms part of the eight-year research project Infinity Fiber, conducted in collaboration with fourteen industry partners.
| Designation | Postdoctoral Researcher |
| Research Area | Chemical Engineering / Pulp and Paper Technology / Cellulose Materials |
| Location | Karlstad, Sweden |
| Appointment Type | Full-time, 2-year fixed-term appointment (with potential for extension) |
| Application Deadline | 24 November 2026 |
Project & Job Description
The postdoctoral position is embedded within the Infinity Fiber project, which addresses challenges across the forest-based value chain with a focus on fibre circularity, innovative separation processes, carbon circularity, and sustainability assessment. The researcher will conduct experimental basic research on forest-based cellulose fibres and their industrial applications.
Key duties include:
- Conducting research on pulp and paper technologies, focusing on the structure, chemistry, and functional properties of cellulose fibres.
- Investigating how fibre properties influence dewatering and drying processes, and how these affect final material properties.
- Studying hornification, cellulose-water interactions, and repeated wetting and drying cycles.
- Developing and characterising novel cellulose-based materials derived from forest-based raw materials.
- Combining chemical, physical, and process engineering analyses to optimise processing behaviour and material performance.
- Collaborating closely with academic colleagues and 14 industrial partners in an interdisciplinary environment.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Applicants must satisfy the following criteria:
- Academic Degree: A PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or an equivalent qualification with a specialisation in pulp and paper technology or another relevant discipline. The doctoral degree must be completed before the appointment decision is made.
- Career Stage: The PhD must have been completed no more than three years prior to the application deadline (extensions may be granted for parental leave, sick leave, military service, or relevant union/clinical service).
- Technical Expertise: Demonstrated experience with experimental methods, particularly processing techniques for cellulose-based materials. Willingness or ability to undertake computational modelling and simulation tasks.
- Language Skills: Excellent command of spoken and written English. Proficiency in Swedish is considered an asset.
- Personal Qualities: Strong ability to conduct research independently, plan projects, follow instructions, and work collaboratively in interdisciplinary groups and industry settings.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted electronically via Karlstad University’s recruitment portal (Varbi). Please ensure all application materials are translated into English, Swedish, Norwegian, or Danish.
A complete application must include:
- Comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Cover letter outlining your qualifications in relation to the position.
- An account of administrative experience and language proficiency.
- Full list of publications (specifying individual contributions in multi-authored papers).
- Copy of PhD degree certificate or official documentation of equivalent qualifications.
- Up to 10 selected scientific publications and up to 5 knowledge-dissemination materials (e.g., educational tools, textbook chapters).
- Contact details for two professional references (at least one must be a former or current supervisor).
Please quote reference number REK2026/237 in your application.
Application Link & Deadline
Deadline for Applications: 24 November 2026
For further details and to submit your application online, visit the official portal: Apply Online at Karlstad University.
