Postdoctoral Fellowship: Postdoc in AI-Driven Design and Modelling of Bio-Based Adhesives

About the Role

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Department of Forest Bioeconomy and Technology, invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher position to advance the design of next‑generation bio‑based adhesives. The project is part of the BioGlue‑Centre – a Vinnova Competence Centre for Sustainable Industry and Digital Transformation – which aims to reduce dependence on fossil‑based materials by developing paradigm‑shifting bio‑based adhesives. The Centre unites 13 companies from the furniture, packaging, and construction sectors together with academic partners from SLU, KTH, and Linnaeus University. The vision is to create a world‑leading research environment in Sweden that combines fundamental science with real‑world application.

Responsibilities

• Establish a data‑driven framework for the rational design of high‑performance bio‑based adhesives, integrating experimental formulation, molecular‑level characterisation, and machine learning.
• Develop a structured formulation library, systematically map key performance indicators, and implement data‑driven optimisation strategies to identify high‑performing systems.
• Use machine learning approaches to uncover structure‑property relationships and guide formulation design.
• Validate selected adhesive formulations on industrially relevant substrates.
• Collaborate closely with academic and industrial partners within the Centre and contribute to the development of a transferable predictive toolbox for sustainable adhesives.

Requirements

• A doctoral degree (obtained within the last three years) in materials science, polymer science, chemistry, chemical engineering, or a closely related field.
• Strong expertise in polymer formulation and structure‑property relationships, particularly in the modification and crosslinking of bio‑based or functional polymers for adhesive or related applications.
• Experience with advanced material characterisation techniques.
• A strong interest in data‑driven research; experience with modelling, data analysis, or machine learning applied to materials or chemical systems is a strong merit.
• Excellent communication skills in English (written and spoken) and clear motivation to pursue an academic career.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and collaborate effectively in an interdisciplinary, international research environment.

Evaluation criteria: Emphasis will be placed on (1) scientific excellence in polymer and materials science, (2) experience or demonstrated potential in applying machine learning and data‑driven approaches to materials or formulation design, and (3) ability to contribute to and expand ongoing research activities within the group.

About the Centre and Collaborations

The BioGlue‑Centre is built on a network of top scientists with expertise in polymer science, adhesives, technology, and sustainability. It involves the Department of Forest Bioeconomy and Technology at SLU, the Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology at KTH, and the Department of Forestry and Wood Technology at Linnaeus University. The partnership with 13 companies along the value chain ensures that research directly addresses industrial needs in furniture, packaging, and construction.

What We Offer

• A dynamic, interdisciplinary research environment at the Department of Forest Bioeconomy and Technology, with activities in Umeå and Uppsala.
• Opportunity to work at the interface of fundamental science and industrial application, contributing to the transition toward a sustainable materials economy.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art laboratory facilities and close collaboration with leading academic and industrial partners.
• A work environment characterised by inclusivity and gender equality, where diverse experiences drive science, creativity, and development.
• SLU offers a competitive benefits package and a supportive atmosphere for career development.

How to Apply

For inquiries about the position, please contact:

• Stergios Adamopoulos, Professor – phone +46 18 67 24 74, email [email protected]
• Carola Häggström, Head of Department – phone +46 90 786 86 13, email [email protected]

Further information about the application process and working at SLU can be found on the university’s careers page. We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

Original vacancy