PhD Scholarship in Plant/Soil Sciences: PFAS Uptake Dynamics in Vegetables Norwegian University of Life Sciences in Norway

The Department of Plant Science at the Faculty of BioSciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), invites applications for a fully funded three-year PhD position focused on the project “PFAS Pollution as a Threat to Safe Food: Understanding PFAS dynamics in vegetables - Uptake, Translocation, and Physiological responses.” This research is part of the NFR-financed project “PFAS in Agriculture: Risks and Mitigation (PFARM)” led by NIVA (2026-2029), aiming to assess the risks of PFAS contamination in Norwegian agriculture and food safety.

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), known as “forever chemicals,” are persistent environmental contaminants that accumulate in water, soil, and food plants, posing significant risks to food safety. The PhD project will generate new insights into PFAS behavior under Northern environmental conditions and in vegetable species relevant for local food production. The main objectives are to characterize PFAS uptake patterns in selected vegetable crops and identify key factors influencing these patterns, such as climate, soil properties, and plant species or organ specificity.

Research activities will include conducting controlled-environment experiments with various vegetable species under different climate and soil conditions, performing growth analysis and gas-exchange measurements to assess plant physiological responses, and analyzing plant samples for PFAS using high-resolution LC/QTOF mass spectrometry at the NIVA laboratory. The project will also involve metabolite profiling to understand how food plants respond to PFAS exposure at the physiological level.

The successful candidate will be expected to develop a research plan for the PhD degree during the initial months of the appointment, with the goal of completing the doctorate within the scholarship period. The position offers a starting annual salary of NOK 550,800 and follows national guidelines for University and Technical College PhD scholars.

Eligibility: Applicants must hold a master’s degree in plant physiology, plant science, plant biology, general biology, soil and water science, or related fields. A strong academic background, proficiency in written and oral English, and documented scientific writing skills are required. Experience in plant research, soil science, chemical or biochemical analysis, and computational skills (especially in R) are highly valued. Candidates completing their degree in spring/summer 2026 may apply but must provide documentation before employment. Additional skills in public communication, problem-solving, and teamwork are desirable.

Application Process: Apply online via the JobbNorge portal. Required documents include a motivation letter, complete CV (entered in JobbNorge’s CV form), certified copies of academic diplomas and transcripts (with English translations if necessary), documentation of English proficiency, names and contact details for two references, and any additional relevant documentation. Applicants from outside Norway should provide a diploma supplement or similar document describing their study program and grading system. The application deadline is 8 April 2026.

The Faculty of BioSciences (BIOVIT) at NMBU is a leading center for research and education in biology and sustainable food production, with a vibrant academic community and state-of-the-art research facilities. NMBU is committed to diversity, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration, offering an excellent environment for doctoral research and professional development.

For further information, contact Professor Sissel Torre at [email protected]