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 heavy metal decontamination by microalgae. The project sits in the Department of Chemistry and connects to the strategic research environment Bio4Energy, with collaboration across an interdisciplinary research setting and industrial partners.

The research topic combines microalgae, bioremediation, biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, and environmental science. The PhD student will study how microalgae can clean heavy metals from industrial wastewater, investigate changes in gene expression and metabolome, identify molecular mechanisms behind heavy metal biosorption, and develop strategies to improve bioremediation at lab and pilot scale.

This is a four-year doctoral employment (with possible extension up to five years if teaching is included). The position is intended to lead to a doctoral degree. Salary follows Umeå University’s PhD salary levels, and employees receive standard social benefits. The workplace is 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 post also asks for a solid background in molecular biology, experience with standard biochemistry and cell biology methods, strong English, and good communication, initiative, creativity, accuracy, independence, and teamwork. Experience with microalgae cultivation and biotechnology is considered a merit.

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