Postdoctoral Scholarship (2 Years) in Analytical Chemistry and Biogeochemistry
Umeå University, one of Sweden’s largest higher education institutions, invites applications for a two-year postdoctoral scholarship in Analytical Chemistry and Biogeochemistry. The Department of Chemistry, renowned for its world-leading research and the Nobel Prize-winning CRISPR-Cas9 discovery, offers a dynamic and collaborative environment with excellent infrastructure and cross-disciplinary opportunities. The department is a strong partner in the Chemical-Biological Center (KBC), providing access to state-of-the-art facilities for research and method development.
This postdoctoral fellowship is part of the project "Nanoparticulate Structures of Trace Metals: Method Development and Biogeochemical Studies." The research focuses on developing advanced analytical methods to quantify and characterize nanoparticulate structures of trace metals, especially nanoparticulate mercury sulfide (HgS(np)). The project utilizes cutting-edge techniques such as single-particle ICP-MS (sp ICP-MS), size-exclusion chromatography ICP-MS (SEC ICP-MS), electron microscopy with X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and vibrational spectroscopy. These methods will enable highly sensitive determination of particle size, hydrodynamic diameter, elemental composition, and concentrations of nanoparticles.
The second phase of the project investigates naturally formed HgS(np) in pore waters from sediments and soils, exploring their role in mercury cycling. The research will relate concentrations and size distributions of HgS(np) to environmental factors such as pH, dissolved sulfide, and organic carbon, and examine their impact on mercury methylation and reduction rates in soils and sediments.
Applicants must hold a doctoral degree (or equivalent) in analytical chemistry, biogeochemistry, inorganic chemistry, or a related field. The degree must be completed by the time of the scholarship decision. Preference is given to candidates who completed their doctorate within three years before the application deadline, though those with special circumstances (illness, parental leave, union appointments, military service, or relevant assignments) may also be considered. Candidates should have experience in advanced experimental research, strong analytical skills, initiative, flexibility, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Excellent proficiency in spoken and written English is required. Experience in method development for chromatography–mass spectrometry and biogeochemical studies of nanoparticulate trace metals is advantageous.
The scholarship is funded and administered by the Kempe Foundations, offering a tax-free stipend of SEK 720,000 for two years (SEK 360,000 per year). The position is full-time, with the start date to be agreed upon. The research will be conducted at Umeå University’s Department of Chemistry, with access to the Trace Analysis Platform, Umeå Centre for Electron Microscopy, XPS platform, and VISP platform.
To apply, submit your application in English as a single PDF file via Umeå University’s e-recruitment system Varbi by July 12, 2026. The application should include your CV, cover letter (max 2,000 characters), publication list with web links/DOIs, verified doctoral degree certificate or expected award documentation, other degree certificates/transcripts, and contact information for two referees. For further information, contact Professor Erik Björn at
[email protected]
.
For more details about the department and research environment, visit
Department of Chemistry
and
Chemical-Biological Center
. Application portal:
Apply here
.
