Alok Kumar Patel

This PhD opening is part of the research group in Biochemical Process Engineering at Luleå University of Technology, within the Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering. The group works in an international research environment and has around 30 staff members, with activities that continue to expand in industrial biotechnology and biomass-related research. The project focuses on new methods for valorising aquatic biomass to support ecosystem-friendly resource use. The doctoral student will work on locally available aquatic biomass, including cultivated filamentous green algae and harvested invasive species, developing sustainable biorefinery processes and connecting them with regulatory analysis to support future implementation. Research tasks include isolating and cultivating native algal species, integrating CO₂ and pH control to improve biomass productivity, applying hydrothermal pretreatment for digestion, and using enzymatic saccharification to produce biogas and valuable products. In parallel, the project also addresses governance, permitting processes, and policy frameworks, combining biochemical process engineering with legal and policy-oriented analysis. The project is linked to regional sustainability efforts and collaboration beyond the university, and the doctoral student will also participate in a broader European blue economy project on seaweeds and halophytes for biorefinery applications.

Luleå University of Technology in Sweden is offering a 24-month postdoctoral position in Biochemical Process Engineering, focusing on the development of sustainable and circular valorisation pathways for aquatic biomass. The position is part of the project “Towards an Arctic Blue (Forest) Economy in Norrbotten,” which aims to integrate aquatic and forest-based biorefineries to support a diversified and resilient bioeconomy. The research group, Biochemical Process Engineering, is renowned for its cutting-edge work in industrial biotechnology and is supported by national and international funding sources, including the Swedish Research Council, EU programs, and private foundations. The postdoc will work on cultivating native aquatic biomass, harvesting invasive species, and developing biorefinery processes such as anaerobic digestion, hydrothermal pretreatment, enzymatic saccharification, aquafeed generation, and microbial conversions. The project includes both laboratory and process-scale experiments, with the goal of identifying promising value chains for regional deployment. The research is closely linked to the EU-funded ReSEAlience project, focusing on the circular conversion of marine and freshwater biomass into sustainable food, feed, and bio-based products. Applicants must have a PhD in Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, or a related field, preferably completed within the last five years. A strong background in algae or aquatic plant cultivation, bioprocessing, and biomass valorisation is required, as evidenced by peer-reviewed publications. Candidates should demonstrate strong research interest, goal orientation, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Excellent communication skills and proficiency in English are essential. The position is fully funded through a stipend from the Kempe Foundations. Application materials must include a CV, personal letter, verified degree certificates (in English or Swedish), and contact details for two referees. The application deadline is 12 March 2026. For more information, contact Professors Paul Christakopoulos or Ulrika Rova, or Dr. Alok Kumar Patel at Luleå University of Technology.