PhD Position in Experimental Fluid Mechanics and Bacterial Biofilms at KTH Royal Institute of Technology KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden

KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden, is seeking a highly motivated doctoral student to join the Department of Engineering Mechanics, specifically within the Fluid and Surface Group of the FLOW community. The research focuses on experimental fluid mechanics and bacterial biofilms, aiming to uncover the fundamental mechanisms that govern biofilm morphology and growth under flow conditions. This project, funded by the Swedish Research Council (VR), addresses challenges in predicting biofilm development in dynamic environments, which is crucial for various industries where timely biofilm removal is essential.

The successful candidate will work with a unique experimental platform, integrating continuum modeling of complex materials and machine-learning-based analysis methods to understand and predict biofilm structure and growth. The research environment at KTH offers opportunities for both basic and applied research in biomechanics, composite mechanics, contact mechanics, fracture mechanics, fatigue, material mechanics, and paper mechanics.

Supervision will be provided by Shervin Bagheri. The position is a full-time, salaried doctoral employment according to KTH's doctoral student salary agreement, with a monthly salary and employee benefits. The employment is temporary, with a maximum duration corresponding to four years of full-time doctoral education, and may include up to 20% teaching or administrative duties.

Applicants must have a second cycle degree (such as a master's) or have completed at least 240 higher education credits, with at least 60 at the second-cycle level, or possess equivalent knowledge. English proficiency equivalent to English B/6 is mandatory. Experience in computational fluid mechanics is a considerable merit. Candidates should be goal-oriented, persevering, able to work independently and collaboratively, and have a professional approach to complex issues.

To apply, candidates must submit a CV, application letter (max 2 pages), diplomas, grades, language certificates, and relevant publications or technical reports. Applications must be submitted through KTH's recruitment system by 31 January 2026. For more information, visit the official vacancy page or contact the supervisor, Shervin Bagheri, at [email protected].

Keywords: fluid mechanics, bacterial biofilms, experimental mechanics, continuum modeling, machine learning, engineering mechanics, biomechanics.