Postdoc in Industrial Ecosystems and Circular Transition KTH Royal Institute of Technology in United Kingdom

Postdoc in Industrial Ecosystems and Circular Transition at KTH Royal Institute of Technology

This postdoctoral position is based at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden, and focuses on the transition toward more circular and resilient industrial systems. The project examines industrial ecosystems, collaboration, sustainable transformation, and the organization of mature manufacturing systems for circular transition.

The research is carried out in close collaboration with the Sustainability Technologies Innovation Centre in Södertälje, together with key actors such as AstraZeneca, Scania, and RISE. The position has a particular empirical anchoring at AstraZeneca and is part of KTH’s PROCEED initiative in Södertälje, creating a strong environment for research tied to industry and public actors. Regular presence in Södertälje is an important part of the role.

Core research themes include cross-company collaboration, Scope 3 challenges, supplier relationships, industrial symbiosis, resource flows, transparency mechanisms, circular business models, and industrial network structures. The successful candidate will conduct independent research, empirical case studies, and analysis of collaboration and industrial networks, while also helping develop and test research-based models and methods in real industrial settings.

Applicants should hold a doctoral degree or equivalent foreign degree by the time of appointment. The role requires documented research expertise, the ability to work independently, and a strong publication record or potential in international scientific journals. Relevant experience in industrial ecosystems, circular transition, sustainability transitions, industrial symbiosis, supply chains, or circular business model innovation is highly valued. Strong English communication skills are required, and Swedish language ability is preferred or a willingness to develop it, given the close collaboration with Swedish actors.

Preferred experience also includes empirical work in industrial settings such as case studies, interviews, workshops, document studies, actor mapping, or collaborative process analysis. Backgrounds related to the pharmaceutical industry, process industry, manufacturing, or complex supplier/value chains are especially relevant. Experience in interdisciplinary environments, research applications, or coordination of research activities will be considered an advantage.

The position is a temporary full-time appointment for up to two years, with a planned start date of 2026-11-01 or by agreement. The salary is monthly. Applications must be submitted via KTH’s recruitment system and include a CV, diplomas and grades, any necessary translations into English or Swedish, and a brief two-page account of your research interests and future goals. The deadline is 2026-08-23 at 23:59 local time.