PhD Position: Mechanistic Understanding of Organic Micropollutants Removal from Wastewater in Biological Activated Carbon Filters Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden

Chalmers University of Technology invites applications for a fully funded PhD position focused on the mechanistic understanding of organic micropollutants (OMPs) removal from wastewater using biological activated carbon filters. The successful candidate will join the Division of Water Environment Technology within the Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering, contributing to cutting-edge research in water quality and resource engineering. The project aims to unravel the complex interactions between biofilm and granular activated carbon (GAC) matrices in the removal of OMPs, combining experimental work with advanced analytical and theoretical data analysis.

Research activities will involve laboratory-scale and full-scale GAC filter studies, employing state-of-the-art techniques such as mass spectrometry imaging, chromatography tandem mass spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and metagenomics for microbial community analysis. The project is highly interdisciplinary, integrating environmental engineering, chemical engineering, biology, and analytical chemistry to address challenges in sustainable water treatment and pollution control.

The PhD position is a four-year fixed-term appointment, with the possibility of extension to five years if the candidate undertakes teaching duties (up to 20% of working hours). The starting salary is 34,550 SEK per month (from May 25, 2025), and the position includes full employee benefits such as healthcare, parental leave, and subsidized day care. Chalmers offers a dynamic and inspiring work environment in Gothenburg, Sweden, and is committed to gender equality and diversity through initiatives like GENIE. Swedish language courses are available for non-native speakers.

Eligibility requirements include a Master's degree (120 credits) or a Master's degree (60 credits) in environmental engineering, biotechnology, chemical engineering, or civil engineering. For international applicants, a 4-year Bachelor's degree is accepted. Strong English communication skills are mandatory. Experience in operating filters or biological reactors, molecular biology techniques, chemistry, programming, data analysis, and advanced analytical tools (SEM, mass spectrometry) is highly valued. Physical presence in Sweden is required throughout the study period, and a valid residence permit must be presented by the start date.

Application materials should be submitted in English as a PDF file (maximum 40 MB) and must include a CV, personal letter, brief introduction, motivation statement, thesis, and transcripts. Applications must be submitted via the online application form; incomplete applications and those sent by email will not be considered. The deadline for applications is January 15, 2026. For further information, contact Professor Britt-Marie Wilén at [email protected].

This opportunity is ideal for candidates passionate about environmental sustainability, advanced water treatment technologies, and interdisciplinary research. Join Chalmers University of Technology to contribute to impactful research and benefit from a supportive academic environment in Sweden.