Publicerad: 2026-01-19
PhD student in Biochemical Process Engineering
Luleå University of Technology is in strong growth with world-leading competence in several research areas. We shape the future through innovative education and ground-breaking research results, and based on the Arctic region, we create global social benefit. Our scientific and artistic research and education are conducted in close collaboration with international, national and regional companies, public actors and leading universities. Luleå University of Technology has a total turnover of nearly SEK 2,1 billion per year. We currently have 1,900 employees and 18,700 students.
In the coming years, multi-billion investments will be made in large projects in Northern Sweden to create a fossil-free society both nationally and globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these cutting-edge research projects and in the societal transformation that they entail. We offer a broad range of courses and study programmes to match the skills in demand. We hope that you will help us to build the sustainable companies and societies of the future.The Biochemical Process Engineering research group, part of the Department of Civil and Natural Resources Engineering with approximately 350 employees, focuses on cutting-edge industrial biotechnology research. Characterized by a strong ambition to remain at the forefront of the field, our dynamic group is continually expanding its research activities. Currently, the group includes 30 staff members and several undergraduate students. Read more about our research; Biochemical Process Engineering.
We are now looking for a PhD student to be part of our research, focusing on new methods to valorize aquatic biomass to support ecosystem-friendly resource use. Our research is conducted in close collaboration with national and international universities, industries, and research institutes.
Subject description
Biochemical Process Engineering focuses on the development of biochemical processes for the production and refinement of chemicals, fuels and material from renewable resources such as biomass.
Project description
The PhD position is part of the project “Blue Forest for Norrbotten: Valorization of aquatic biomass and Governance Frameworks for Sustainable Deployment”, funded by LTU. The aim is to valoize locally available aquatic biomass, both cultivated filamentous green algae and harvested invasive plants, through sustainable biorefinery processes and supporting regulatory analysis.
The work includes isolating and cultivating native algae species, integrating CO₂/pH control to enhance biomass productivity, applying hydrothermal pretreatment for anaerobic digestion, and enzymatic saccharification to produce biogas and value-added products. In addition, parallel analysis of governance, permitting, and policy requirements will be conducted to ensure legally robust and sustainable implementation.
This interdisciplinary project combines biochemical process engineering with environmental law, contributing to regionally relevant, solutions for aquatic-biomass utilization within the SUN Research School. The PhD candidate will also be involved in the EU Sustainable Blue Economy Partnership project “Unlocking the Potential of Seaweeds and Halophytes through Biorefinery for Enhanced Resilience in the Aquaculture Agri-Food and Chemical Industries”.
Duties
As a PhD student, you will be trained in scientific reasoning and writing. The work is problem-focused, equipping you with skills to identify, define, formulate and solve challenges of both a practical and theoretical nature. You will also develop your skills to work with complex theoretical and analytical issues, integrating them into practical applications.
The majority of your time will be devoted to your own research project. You will work independently with your research, with the support of your supervisors, and communicate your scientific results in peer-reviewed scientific journals, as well as participate in national and international conferences. Your training will also include advanced-level courses tailored to your research focus. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to gain experience in teaching.
Qualifications
To be considered an eligible applicant, a master's degree in biotechnology, chemical engineering, biochemical engineering or equivalent is required.
Previous research experience is an additional merit. Prior experience with relevant analytical techniques, biomass characterization, algal or aquatic-plant cultivation, bioprocessing methods (e.g., pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis, anaerobic digestion), or laboratory work involving microbial or algal cultures is also considered a merit. In addition, previous experience in the dissemination of scientific results, including both oral and written presentations, is seen as a strong qualification. A collaborative mindset, with the ability to effectively engage in teamwork and multidisciplinary projects, is also considered as a strong plus.
Further information specifically on doctoral education, see; General syllabus for the Board of the faculty of science and technology
Further information
Employment as a PhD student is limited to 4 years, teaching and other department duties may be added with max 20%. Placement: Luleå. Starting: As soon as possible. Salary is in accordance with local guidelines.
For more information, please contact:
Paul Christakopoulos, Professor and Head of Subject in Biochemical Process Engineering, (+46)920-492510, paul.christakopoulos@ltu.se
Ulrika Rova, Professor in Biochemical Process Engineering, (+46)920-491315, ulrika.rova@ltu.se
Alok Kumar Patel, Lecturer in Biochemical Process Engineering, (+46)920-491570, alok.kumar.patel@ltu.se
Union representatives:
SACO-S Diana Chroneer,(+46) 920-49 2037 diana.chroneer@ltu.se
OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, (+46) 920-49 1721 marika.vesterberg@ltu.se
In case of different interpretations of the English and Swedish versions of this announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.
Application
We prefer that you apply for this position by clicking on the apply button below. The application should include a CV, personal letter and copies of verified diplomas from high school and universities. Mark your application with the reference number below. Your application, including diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish.
Last day of application: 16 February 2026
Reference number: 7047-2025
In the coming years, multi-billion investments will be made in large projects in Northern Sweden to create a fossil-free society both nationally and globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these cutting-edge research projects and in the societal transformation that they entail. We offer a broad range of courses and study programmes to match the skills in demand. We hope that you will help us to build the sustainable companies and societies of the future.The Biochemical Process Engineering research group, part of the Department of Civil and Natural Resources Engineering with approximately 350 employees, focuses on cutting-edge industrial biotechnology research. Characterized by a strong ambition to remain at the forefront of the field, our dynamic group is continually expanding its research activities. Currently, the group includes 30 staff members and several undergraduate students. Read more about our research; Biochemical Process Engineering.
We are now looking for a PhD student to be part of our research, focusing on new methods to valorize aquatic biomass to support ecosystem-friendly resource use. Our research is conducted in close collaboration with national and international universities, industries, and research institutes.
Subject description
Biochemical Process Engineering focuses on the development of biochemical processes for the production and refinement of chemicals, fuels and material from renewable resources such as biomass.
Project description
The PhD position is part of the project “Blue Forest for Norrbotten: Valorization of aquatic biomass and Governance Frameworks for Sustainable Deployment”, funded by LTU. The aim is to valoize locally available aquatic biomass, both cultivated filamentous green algae and harvested invasive plants, through sustainable biorefinery processes and supporting regulatory analysis.
The work includes isolating and cultivating native algae species, integrating CO₂/pH control to enhance biomass productivity, applying hydrothermal pretreatment for anaerobic digestion, and enzymatic saccharification to produce biogas and value-added products. In addition, parallel analysis of governance, permitting, and policy requirements will be conducted to ensure legally robust and sustainable implementation.
This interdisciplinary project combines biochemical process engineering with environmental law, contributing to regionally relevant, solutions for aquatic-biomass utilization within the SUN Research School. The PhD candidate will also be involved in the EU Sustainable Blue Economy Partnership project “Unlocking the Potential of Seaweeds and Halophytes through Biorefinery for Enhanced Resilience in the Aquaculture Agri-Food and Chemical Industries”.
Duties
As a PhD student, you will be trained in scientific reasoning and writing. The work is problem-focused, equipping you with skills to identify, define, formulate and solve challenges of both a practical and theoretical nature. You will also develop your skills to work with complex theoretical and analytical issues, integrating them into practical applications.
The majority of your time will be devoted to your own research project. You will work independently with your research, with the support of your supervisors, and communicate your scientific results in peer-reviewed scientific journals, as well as participate in national and international conferences. Your training will also include advanced-level courses tailored to your research focus. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to gain experience in teaching.
Qualifications
To be considered an eligible applicant, a master's degree in biotechnology, chemical engineering, biochemical engineering or equivalent is required.
Previous research experience is an additional merit. Prior experience with relevant analytical techniques, biomass characterization, algal or aquatic-plant cultivation, bioprocessing methods (e.g., pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis, anaerobic digestion), or laboratory work involving microbial or algal cultures is also considered a merit. In addition, previous experience in the dissemination of scientific results, including both oral and written presentations, is seen as a strong qualification. A collaborative mindset, with the ability to effectively engage in teamwork and multidisciplinary projects, is also considered as a strong plus.
Further information specifically on doctoral education, see; General syllabus for the Board of the faculty of science and technology
Further information
Employment as a PhD student is limited to 4 years, teaching and other department duties may be added with max 20%. Placement: Luleå. Starting: As soon as possible. Salary is in accordance with local guidelines.
For more information, please contact:
Paul Christakopoulos, Professor and Head of Subject in Biochemical Process Engineering, (+46)920-492510, paul.christakopoulos@ltu.se
Ulrika Rova, Professor in Biochemical Process Engineering, (+46)920-491315, ulrika.rova@ltu.se
Alok Kumar Patel, Lecturer in Biochemical Process Engineering, (+46)920-491570, alok.kumar.patel@ltu.se
Union representatives:
SACO-S Diana Chroneer,(+46) 920-49 2037 diana.chroneer@ltu.se
OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, (+46) 920-49 1721 marika.vesterberg@ltu.se
In case of different interpretations of the English and Swedish versions of this announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.
Application
We prefer that you apply for this position by clicking on the apply button below. The application should include a CV, personal letter and copies of verified diplomas from high school and universities. Mark your application with the reference number below. Your application, including diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish.
Last day of application: 16 February 2026
Reference number: 7047-2025