Örjan Gustafsson

Stockholm University is recruiting a PhD student in Environmental Science focused on methane oxidation in the Arctic Ocean . The position is based at the Department of Environmental Science and linked to the Biogeochemistry Unit , with supervision and project support from Birgit Wild and collaboration with Örjan Gustafsson and WeiLi Hong . The doctoral project is part of “Observational constraints on Arctic Ocean methane systems as tipping elements and triggers of climate overshoot” , funded by the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation . The research addresses methane emissions from thawing subsea permafrost and collapsing hydrates in the Arctic Ocean, with a focus on understanding methane sources, sinks, oxidation rates, atmospheric release, and future development. The project integrates observations and modelling and may include experimental work, fieldwork, and laboratory analyses. Possible research directions include limiting methane oxidation rates, studying the impact of methane oxidation on ocean acidification, and examining the role of permafrost in methane emissions on Arctic shelves. The department has extensive sample collections and data, especially from Russian Arctic shelves, plus laboratory facilities for controlled experiments and analyses of biomarkers, methane and CO2 concentrations, stability and radioisotopes, and microbial community composition. Eligibility: applicants must meet general doctoral admission requirements and specific subject requirements in Environmental Science. The specific requirement includes at least 45 advanced-level credits in biology, chemistry, earth science, physics, or meteorology, including a 30-credit independent project, plus at least 30 credits in other natural sciences. Strong subject knowledge, analytical and creative ability, initiative, independence, collaboration skills, and excellent English communication are important. Funding and employment: this is a salaried doctoral employment, time-limited for up to four years full-time. The role may include up to 20% teaching, research, and administration duties. Application deadline: 2026-07-31. Apply via Stockholm University’s recruitment system and submit a complete application with cover letter, CV, and required attachments.