PhD in Chemistry/Biochemistry on Microalgae Bioremediation of Heavy Metals Umeå University in Sweden

Umeå University is advertising a PhD position in Chemistry, with a specialization in Biochemistry, focused on microalgae bioremediation and heavy metal decontamination. The project investigates how microalgae can clean heavy metals from industrial wastewater and how their bioremediation capacity can be improved through molecular and biotechnological approaches.

The doctoral project will combine molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, and biotechnology. Research tasks include studying gene expression and metabolome changes, identifying molecular mechanisms behind heavy metal biosorption, testing microalgae for wastewater cleanup, and developing strategies to enhance bioremediation at lab and pilot scale. The student will also be part of the strategic research environment Bio4Energy and collaborate with researchers in the environment.

This is a four-year PhD employment at Umeå University, with possible extension up to five years if teaching is included. The position may include up to 20% teaching and other departmental work. Salary follows the university’s established PhD salary levels, and the workplace will be in Umeå, Sweden.

Eligibility highlights: applicants need a second-cycle degree or equivalent, plus at least 90 ECTS credits in chemistry or a directly relevant subject, including at least 15 ECTS credits at second-cycle level in the specialization. The university also asks for a solid background in molecular biology, experience with standard biochemistry and cell biology methods, strong English skills, and good communication, initiative, creativity, and accuracy. Experience with microalgae cultivation and biotechnological applications of microalgae is considered a merit.

Application window: the deadline is 5 June 2026. The start date is 1 September 2026 or by agreement, but no later than 15 December 2026. Applications must be submitted through the Varbi e-recruitment system and include a motivation letter, CV, degree documents, transcripts, relevant theses/publications, and contact details for at least two referees.

Supervisor/contact: Professor Christiane Funk, Umeå University, is listed as the contact person for further information.