Are you interested in developing wastewater treatment biotechnology for future efficient processes with low-climate footprint? We are looking for a doctoral student to become part of our team in the research area Water Quality and Resource Engineering at the department of Architecture and Civil Engineering.
About us
The Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering tackles contemporary and emerging challenges for the built and natural environment, ranging from resource utilisation, pollution and climate change to digitalisation and inequality. We combine expertise in architecture, civil engineering and related disciplines to build a better world.
In the research area Water Quality and Resource Engineering, within the division of Water Environment Technology, we develop methods and technologies to analyse, treat, and manage water quality, from contaminants to valuable resources. Microbial ecosystems, natural organic matter, water and wastewater treatment processes, and monitoring technologies for both natural and engineered environments are central themes of our research. The goal: circular resource use and protection of the environment and human health.
About the research project
Reactive nitrogen must be removed from wastewater to prevent eutrophication of aquatic environments. However, the microbial processes removing nitrogen also emit nitrous oxide (N2O), which is a powerful greenhouse gas. In this project, we address the mechanisms causing N2O emissions from wastewater treatment to propose strategies for mitigation. We will do this by investigating the composition, activity, and N2O emission of the microbial communities in full-scale wastewater treatment processes and in laboratory experiments, and use the knowledge gained for refined emission predictions using mechanistic and data-driven modelling.
Who we are looking for
The following requirements are mandatory:
- To qualify as a Doctoral student, you must have a Master's degree (masterexamen) of 120 credits or a Master’s degree (magisterexamen) of 60 credits* in Environmental Engineering, Applied Biotechnology, or a related discipline
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
- Competence in wastewater treatment biotechnology
*for students with an education earned outside of Sweden, a 4-year Bachelor’s degree is accepted.
The following experience will strengthen your application:
- Experience in molecular biology techniques (e.g. metagenomics) and bioinformatics
- Experience in bioprocess modelling for wastewater treatment
- Laboratory experience of setting up and running reactors
- Experience in chemical measuring techniques and sensor applications relevant for water treatment
What you will do
- Use molecular biology techniques to investigate the composition and activity of the microbial communities in wastewater treatment plants in relation to long-term N2O emissions
- Conduct kinetic and microbial community studies in lab-scale to investigate critical factors for N2O emissions from activated sludge and biofilm
- Use mechanistic and data-driven modelling to predict emission patterns from activated sludge and biofilm
- Develop broad knowledge in the discipline via participation in advanced-level coursework, workshops and conferences, and by reading scientific literature
- Develop your own scientific concepts and communicate the results of your research verbally and in writing
- Assist in teaching at Chalmers' undergraduate and graduate level, or performing other duties up to a maximum of 20 percent of working hours
Contract terms
- The Doctoral student positions are fully funded from start.
- The position is a fixed-term appointment of four years, with the possibility to teach up to 20%, which extends the position up to five years.
- A starting salary of 35,725 SEK per month (valid from May 1, 2026).
- Doctoral studies require physical presence throughout the entire study period. A valid residence permit must be presented by the study start date; otherwise the admission may be withdrawn.
What we offer
- As a Doctoral student at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.
- A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.
- Read more about Sweden’s generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare etc at Move To Gothenburg.
Chalmers is dedicated to improving gender balance and actively works with equality projects, such as the GENIE Initiative for gender equality and excellence.
If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in.
Find more general information about doctoral studies at Chalmers here.
Application procedure
The application should be written in English and attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.
CV
Personal letter
- A brief introduction about yourself.
- A brief motivation as to why you are interested in this position.
Bachelor’s and, if available, master’s thesis together with the transcripts.
Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.
A background check may be conducted as part of the application process.
Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. Contact details to references will be requested after the interview.
We welcome your application no later than August 10.
For questions, please contact:
Frank Persson
Associate Professor
[email protected]
We look forward to your application!
*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***
Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has 3100 employees and 10,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture. With scientific excellence as a basis, Chalmers promotes knowledge and technical solutions for a sustainable world. Through global commitment and entrepreneurship, we foster an innovative spirit, in close collaboration with wider society.
Chalmers was founded in 1829 and has the same motto today as it did then: Avancez – forward.
