Arbetsbeskrivning

Department of Forest Biomaterials and Technology Do you want to help shape the future of sustainable materials? We are looking for a dedicated PhD student to develop techniques to recover clean secondary materials from post-consumer wood that is highly polluted with preservatives. In this project, you will have the opportunity to combine cutting-edge expertise in polymer science with practical solutions for a greener future. If you have a strong research background and a passion for innovation, this could be the next step in your academic career! About the position Wood preservation compounds pose a significant threat not only to the environment but also to human health, and therefore, it is necessary to develop efficient remediation technologies. At the same time, current recycling processes are greatly complicated by the presence of pollutants (chemical treatment products, heavy metals), which calls for further research on cleaning methods. The research group at Uppsala has received funding from the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU) to coordinate the WoodTreat project starting in the fall of 2025. The project proposes a multi-dimensional cascade approach for highly polluted post-consumer wood waste via a series of Pilot Validation Trials with aim to reduce the demand for virgin materials, reduce unsustainable options such as landfilling or incineration, and support the transition towards a circular economy by developing new value-added products from clean secondary materials. Work duties also involve close collaboration with the consortium members in the European project and help in creating reports based on research results. Your profile Students with a master’s degree in material science, polymer science and technology, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, wood science, polymer technology or related disciplines are eligible to apply for this position. Experience of working with tracking of impurities and chemical pollutants, wood waste recycling, or characterisation of secondary materials for use in various industrial value chains is an advantage. Previous research experience on subjects related to the position is a merit. Fluent English language, both in writing and speaking is required. Much emphasis in the evaluation of applications is placed on analytical and problem-solving capacity, motivation and ability to collaborate as well as work individually. Experiences of academic publication is seen as a merit. About us The Department of Forest Biomaterials and Technology (SBT) is part of the Faculty of Forest Science, has about 50 employees and is based in both Umeå and Uppsala. The department conducts high-quality research and education at a high international level and collaborates with society and industry to develop a bio-based economy where forest biomaterials are an important resource. The main focus in Umeå is on value chains in the bio-based industry, where different components of forest biomaterials are collected, characterized, separated, modified/refined, used, and reused cost-effectively for various purposes while forest ecosystem services are managed sustainably. In Uppsala, the focus is on wood science and technology, with research and education on wood materials from nano to macro level, wood composites, and wood adhesives, as well as accredited testing of wood products and treatments for the market. More info about the activities of the research group at Uppsala can be found here: https://www.slu.se/en/departments/forest-biomaterialstechnology/travetenskap/fibres-adhesives--composites/ Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/ Place of work: Uppsala Forms for funding or employment: Temporary employment, 4 years Extent: 100 % Starting date: The position may start as agreed between both parties Application: Click the “Apply” button to submit your application. The deadline is 2025-10-05. To qualify for third-cycle (Doctoral) courses and study programmes, you must have a second-cycle (Master’s) qualification. Alternatively, you must have conducted a minimum of four years of full-time study, of which a minimum of one year at second-cycle level. Applicants will be selected based on their written application and CV, degree project, copies of their degree certificate and transcript of records from previous first and second-cycle studies at a university or higher education institution, two personal references, and knowledge of English. More information about the English language requirements can be found here: www.slu.se/en/education/programmes-courses/doctoral-studies/new-doctoral-students/english-language-requirements/ Please note that applicants invited to interview must submit attested copies of their degree certificate, or equivalent, a transcript of records from previous first and second-cycle studies at a university or higher education institution. Applicants who are not Swedish citizens need to submit an attested copy of their passport’s information page containing their photograph and personal details. Read about the PhD education at SLU at www.slu.se/en/education/programmes-courses/doctoral-studies/ Academic union representatives: https://internt.slu.se/en/my-employment/employee-associations/kontaktpersoner-vid-rekrytering/ The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has a key role in the development for sustainable life, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interaction between humans, animals and ecosystems and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Our main campuses are located in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala, however, the university also operates at research stations, experimental forests and teaching sites throughout Sweden. SLU has around 3,000 employees, 5,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 3 billion. We are investing in attractive environments on all of our campuses. We strive to provide a work environment characterised by inclusivity and gender equality, where different experiences generate conversations between people and pave the way for science, creativity and development. Therefore, we welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.