Umeå University is seeking a PhD candidate in Chemistry with a specialization in geochemistry, focusing on the occurrence and stability of smectite minerals, which are crucial for nuclear waste disposal strategies. The research is based in the Department of Chemistry, a leading center for scientific research and education in Sweden, and is funded by the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority. The project will investigate the mineralogy and molecular properties of Swedish smectite-rich minerals, serving as natural analogues for the bentonite barrier in the KBS-3 concept for final disposal of spent nuclear fuel. The successful candidate will employ a combination of theoretical molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and experimental techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) to characterize smectite samples from various Swedish mineral deposits at the molecular level. The research group, led by Associate Professor Michael Holmboe, is active in molecular geochemistry and offers access to advanced experimental platforms at the Chemical-Biological Centre (KBC). The PhD position is a full-time, four-year appointment, with the possibility of extending up to five years if teaching duties are included (up to 20%). Applicants must have a second-cycle degree or equivalent (at least 240 ECTS credits, with 60 at the second-cycle level), and at least 90 ECTS credits in chemistry or a directly relevant subject, with 15 ECTS at the advanced level. A strong background and interest in geochemistry, geology, inorganic chemistry, and physical chemistry are required, along with excellent English communication skills. Merits include practical experience with spectroscopy or diffraction methods and basic programming. The position offers a competitive salary and full social benefits, including parental leave, holiday leave, and occupational health services. The application deadline is January 19, 2026, with the position starting on March 1, 2026, or by agreement. To apply, candidates should submit a personal letter, CV, degree certificates, transcripts, relevant publications, and contact information for two referees via the Umeå University e-recruitment system. For more information, contact Associate Professor Michael Holmboe at [email protected] or visit his academic page . Keywords: geochemistry, smectite minerals, nuclear waste disposal, molecular dynamics simulations, X-ray diffraction, chemistry, Swedish mineral deposits, molecular geochemistry.

The Department of Chemistry at Umeå University, Sweden, invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in Chemistry with a specialization in geochemistry. This four-year doctoral project centers on the occurrence and stability of smectite minerals, with direct relevance to nuclear waste disposal strategies. The research is supported by the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority (SSM) and aims to advance understanding of Swedish smectite-rich minerals as natural analogues for the bentonite barrier in the KBS-3 concept for final disposal of spent nuclear fuel. The successful candidate will join a dynamic research group in molecular geochemistry, leveraging both theoretical molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and experimental techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) to characterize smectite samples from various Swedish mineral deposits at the molecular level. The group offers extensive expertise and access to advanced experimental platforms at the Chemical Biological Centre (KBC), providing a stimulating environment for interdisciplinary research. As a PhD student, you will participate in research and postgraduate courses, with opportunities for teaching and departmental work (up to 20%). The position is designed to culminate in a doctoral degree and includes comprehensive social benefits such as parental leave, holiday leave, and occupational health services. The employment is full-time for four years (48 months), with a possible extension to five years if teaching is included. Salary is determined according to established university levels for PhD positions. Eligibility requirements include a completed second-cycle degree or at least 240 ECTS credits (with 60 ECTS at second-cycle level), or equivalent foreign qualifications. You must have at least 90 ECTS credits in chemistry or a closely related subject, with 15 ECTS credits at advanced level in the specialization. Strong interest and prior coursework in geochemistry, geology, inorganic chemistry, and physical chemistry are essential. Applicants must demonstrate excellent oral and written English skills, thoroughness, logical reasoning, and problem-solving abilities. Merits include hands-on experience with spectroscopy or diffraction methods, basic programming skills, and evidence of motivation, independence, and collaborative ability. To apply, submit your application via the Varbi e-recruitment system by January 19, 2026. Your application should include a personal letter (max 2 pages), CV, degree certificates, transcripts, up to five relevant publications, and contact details for at least two referees. The position starts on March 1, 2026, or by agreement. For further information, contact Associate Professor Michael Holmboe ( [email protected] ), or visit the group’s webpage at http://moleculargeo.chem.umu.se/holmboe/ . Umeå University’s Department of Chemistry is a leading research hub with approximately 200 employees and four major research areas: Biological Chemistry, IBEAM, Organic Chemistry, and Technical Chemistry. The department is a key partner in the KBC, Chemical Biological Centre. For more information about doctoral studies and working at Umeå University, visit https://www.umu.se/en/work-with-us/ and doctoral studies in chemistry . Apply now to join a vibrant research community and contribute to cutting-edge geochemical research with real-world impact on nuclear waste management.

Umeå University, one of Sweden’s largest and most dynamic higher education institutions, is renowned for its world-leading research and high-quality education. The Department of Chemistry is offering a fully funded PhD position specializing in geochemistry, focusing on the occurrence and stability of smectite minerals with direct relevance to nuclear waste disposal. This research is supported by the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority (SSM) and aims to advance understanding of Swedish smectite-rich minerals as natural analogues for the bentonite barrier in the KBS-3 concept for final disposal of spent nuclear fuel. The successful candidate will join a vibrant research group in molecular geochemistry, leveraging both theoretical molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and experimental techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) to characterize smectite samples from various Swedish mineral deposits at the molecular level. The project integrates advanced computational and experimental approaches, providing a unique opportunity to contribute to the safe and sustainable management of nuclear waste. As a PhD student, you will participate in research and postgraduate courses, with the possibility of engaging in teaching and departmental duties (up to 20%). The position is based at the Department of Chemistry, which is a leading research environment with strong ties to the Chemical-Biological Centre (KBC) and access to state-of-the-art experimental platforms. The research group has extensive experience in molecular geochemistry and offers a collaborative and supportive atmosphere. Eligibility and Requirements: Applicants must hold a second-cycle degree or have completed at least 240 ECTS credits (with at least 60 ECTS at the advanced level), or possess equivalent foreign qualifications. Specific entry requirements include at least 90 ECTS credits in chemistry or a closely related subject, with a minimum of 15 ECTS credits at the advanced level in the specialization. Candidates should demonstrate a strong interest and background in geochemistry, geology, inorganic chemistry, and physical chemistry. Excellent oral and written English skills are essential. Merits include practical experience with spectroscopy or diffraction methods and basic programming skills. The selection process will also consider motivation, independence, collaboration skills, and problem-solving abilities. Funding and Benefits: The position is fully funded for four years, with salary set according to Umeå University’s established PhD levels. PhD students enjoy comprehensive social benefits, including parental leave, holiday leave, and occupational health services. The physical workplace is in Umeå, Sweden, with a start date of March 1, 2026, or by agreement. Application Process: Applications must be submitted via the university’s e-recruitment system Varbi by January 19, 2026. Required documents include a personal letter (max 2 pages), CV, degree certificates, transcripts, relevant publications (max 5), and contact information for two referees. The application can be written in English or Swedish. For further information, contact Associate Professor Michael Holmboe ( [email protected] ) or visit the research group’s webpage: http://moleculargeo.chem.umu.se/holmboe/ . Explore more about the Department of Chemistry and the benefits of working at Umeå University through the provided links. This is an excellent opportunity for motivated candidates with a strong background in chemistry and geosciences to contribute to impactful research in environmental safety and nuclear waste management.

Umeå University in Sweden is offering a fully funded PhD position in Chemistry, specializing in geochemistry. The research project, funded by the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority, focuses on the occurrence and stability of smectite minerals relevant to nuclear waste disposal. The successful candidate will join the Department of Chemistry and work within a research group specializing in molecular geochemistry, utilizing both theoretical molecular dynamics simulations and experimental techniques such as X-ray diffraction to characterize smectite samples from Swedish mineral deposits. The PhD student will benefit from the resources of the Department of Chemistry and the Chemical-Biological Centre (KBC), engaging in a dynamic academic environment with a strong tradition in chemistry and earth sciences. The project is directly relevant to environmental science and geology, addressing challenges in nuclear waste management and the study of natural analogues for bentonite barriers. Applicants must hold a second-cycle degree (or equivalent, at least 240 ECTS credits with 60 at the advanced level), with at least 90 ECTS credits in chemistry or a closely related field, and 15 ECTS credits at the advanced level. Required qualifications include a strong background and coursework in geochemistry, geology, inorganic chemistry, and physical chemistry, as well as excellent English communication skills. Merits include hands-on experience with spectroscopy or diffraction methods and basic programming skills. The selection will also consider motivation, independence, collaboration skills, and the potential to complete doctoral studies successfully. The position is for four years of full-time study, with the possibility of extension for teaching duties. The employment includes a competitive salary and comprehensive social benefits, such as parental leave, holiday leave, and occupational health services. The physical workplace is in Umeå, Sweden, with a start date of March 1, 2026, or as agreed. To apply, candidates should submit their application via the Umeå University e-recruitment system (Varbi) by January 19, 2026. The application must include a personal letter, CV, degree certificates, transcripts, relevant publications, and contact information for at least two referees. For further information, applicants may contact Associate Professor Michael Holmboe ([email protected]). Keywords: geochemistry, chemistry, molecular dynamics, X-ray diffraction, smectite minerals, nuclear waste disposal, mineralogy, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, Sweden.