PhD Candidate in Biochar Use for Manure Management and Biogas Optimization IRTA in Spain

IRTA is offering a full-time PhD position within its Sustainability in Biosystems Program in Caldes de Montbui, Barcelona, Spain. The project focuses on biochar use for manure management and biogas optimization, with a strong applied research profile in environmental biotechnology, waste valorisation, and resource recovery.

The doctoral project, titled “Exploring the application of biochar to improve manure management through biogas optimization, emission abatement and resource recovery”, investigates how different biochar applications can improve the manure management value chain. The research aims to optimize anaerobic digestion of pig slurry, support biogas upgrading, reduce emissions such as greenhouse gases and ammonia (NH3), and evaluate nutrient-rich biochar as a soil amendment.

Research tasks include characterising biochar according to feedstock and production process, testing biochar as an additive in anaerobic digestion, studying adsorption mechanisms in biogas upgrading, and designing and operating a low-cost submergible microbial electrolysis cell using biochar as an anode for ammonia recovery and emission control in manure storage. The PhD candidate will also use electrochemical techniques, microbiological analyses, literature review, data management, statistical analysis, scientific writing, dissemination, and conference participation.

This opportunity is suited to candidates with a background in Biology, Biotechnology, Biological Systems Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Environmental Sciences, or related areas. Applicants must hold the appropriate bachelor’s and master’s degrees and be eligible for doctoral admission under Catalan university requirements. Strong English skills are required. Experience with waste analysis, gas emission sampling, microbiological methods, anaerobic digestion, biochar, emissions abatement, or bioelectrochemical systems will be an advantage. A driving licence is valued, and Catalan/Spanish knowledge is a plus.

The position is a 4-year contract with a gross annual salary that increases over time: 19,800€ in the first year, 24,025€ in years two and three, and 26,325€ in the fourth year, paid in 14 instalments. IRTA also covers doctoral school fees upon enrolment. Additional conditions include a 37.5-hour workweek, Friday afternoons off, intensive summer schedule, vacation and personal days, some remote work, flexible hours, and continuous training opportunities.

Supervision is listed under August Bonmatí, Victor Riau, and Míriam Cerrillo. The application deadline is 22 November 2026. Interested candidates should apply online by submitting a CV and motivation letter through the IRTA talent portal.