PhD Position in Green Polymer Chemistry for Bio-Based Materials at Linköping University Linköping University in Sweden

Join the Green Polymer Chemistry (GreenPolChem) group at Linköping University for a PhD position focused on developing innovative bio-based materials from wood and wood-derived polymers. This research is part of the Wallenberg Wood Science Center (WWSC), Sweden’s largest initiative in sustainable materials, connecting KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Chalmers University of Technology, and Linköping University. The WWSC aims to provide sustainable, bio-based alternatives to fossil-based materials, and as a PhD student, you will be part of a vibrant network of researchers and graduate students across Sweden.

The GreenPolChem group, located in the Pronova Chemistry Lab at the Laboratory of Organic Electronics (LOE), consists of 10 researchers working on new chemical strategies to transform wood-derived molecules and polymers into functional, high-performance, and circular materials. Your PhD project will focus on molecular-level chemical design, polymer synthesis, and modification, aiming to translate chemical functionality into new material concepts with properties such as high mechanical performance, transparency, processability, and recyclability. You will explore macromolecular design, dynamic and reversible chemistry, and interfacial chemistry to enable next-generation materials from renewable resources.

Research activities include polymer synthesis and modification, structure–property relationship studies, and advanced characterization techniques such as NMR, GPC/SEC, mass spectrometry, thermal analysis, and mechanical testing. The interdisciplinary environment brings together chemists, materials scientists, and engineers, offering opportunities for collaboration and professional growth.

Applicants should have a master’s degree in chemistry, organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, or a related field, or have completed at least 240 credits (4 years of study) with 60 credits in advanced courses. Excellent grades in chemistry-related subjects and strong communication skills in English are required. Experience in laboratory work and material characterization is meritorious. The ideal candidate is highly self-motivated and passionate about fundamental research.

The PhD position is fully funded by WWSC, with a starting salary of 35,300 SEK/month before tax, increasing as you progress through the program. Employment benefits include paid vacation (28 workdays/year), paid maternity/paternity leave (up to 390 days per child), and additional benefits. The position is initially for one year, with renewals based on progress, and may extend up to five years depending on teaching and departmental duties.

As a WWSC academy member, you will gain a broad overview of renewable materials research, connect with peers and industry, and prepare for a career in Sweden’s forest value chain. The application deadline is April 30, 2026. Diversity and equal opportunities are core values at Linköping University.

For more information, visit the Green Polymer Chemistry group’s homepage, the Laboratory of Organic Electronics, and WWSC. Apply directly via the application portal. We look forward to your application!