Paul Christakopoulos

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 as part of the project “Towards an Arctic Blue (Forest) Economy in Norrbotten.” The research group is internationally recognized for its work in industrial biotechnology and biorefinery, with strong collaborations across academia and industry. The postdoc will join a dynamic team working at the intersection of blue bioeconomy, biorefinery development, and regional resource utilization. The project aims to establish a site-specific aquatic biomass platform by cultivating native aquatic biomass, harvesting invasive species, and applying advanced bioprocessing techniques such as anaerobic digestion, hydrothermal pretreatment, enzymatic saccharification, aquafeed generation, and microbial conversions. The research will also involve cultivation experiments, biomass characterization, and process-scale comparisons to identify promising value chains for regional deployment. A key aspect is to explore how aquatic and forest-based biorefineries can complement each other, supporting a diversified and resilient bioeconomy in the Arctic region. The position is funded by a stipend from the Kempe Foundations and is closely linked to the EU-funded ReSEAlience project, which focuses on the circular conversion of marine and freshwater biomass into sustainable food, feed, and bio-based products. The research group is part of the Department of Civil and Natural Resources Engineering and benefits from a diverse funding portfolio, including national and international grants. 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 be highly motivated, able to work independently and collaboratively, and possess strong communication skills in English. 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 Prof. Paul Christakopoulos, Prof. Ulrika Rova, or Dr. Alok Patel at Luleå University of Technology. Apply via the official university portal using the provided reference number.