Job for Researchers: Two PhD Positions in Biogas Process Development and Microbiology – SLU, Sweden

About the Role

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Department of Molecular Sciences in Uppsala, Sweden, invites applications for two PhD student positions in biogas production. The research focuses on anaerobic digestion processes, which transform organic waste streams and residues into renewable energy and nutrient-rich biofertilisers while closing nutrient cycles. These projects are part of the national Biogas Solutions Research Center (BSRC) and, for one position, the Interreg BEAR project in collaboration with Luleå University of Technology and the University of Oulu. The PhD students will join the Microbial Biotechnology research group under the principal supervision of Professor Anna Schnürer, with additional supervision from internal and external researchers, including industry partners.

Project Areas

PhD Project 1: Biogas Production from Agricultural Feedstocks – Process Optimisation

This project addresses the rapid expansion of biogas production in agriculture. The PhD student will operate and evaluate laboratory-scale biogas processes to optimise both biogas yield and biofertiliser quality, using chemical and microbiological analyses, with opportunities for process modelling.

PhD Project 2: Biogas Process Microbiology

This project focuses on the microbial communities driving anaerobic digestion. The successful candidate will investigate microbial dynamics to ensure efficient and stable biogas production, contributing to process stability and resilience.

Applicants may indicate interest in one or both projects and must specify their first priority with a rationale.

Qualifications

Required

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in biology, microbiology, biotechnology, molecular biotechnology, bioinformatics, or a related field.
• Excellent English skills (written and spoken), equivalent to Swedish upper secondary school English B/English 6.
• Ability to read and critically evaluate scientific literature in English.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• High motivation and commitment to advancing renewable energy systems, with keen interest in biotechnology and industrial microbiology.

Meritorious

• Knowledge or experience in biogas processes, modelling/programming, or statistics.
• Swedish language skills.

What We Offer

• A full-time doctoral studentship (100 %) for four years of postgraduate education.
• Salary according to the local collective agreement for doctoral students, with fixed progression levels.
• Placement at the Department of Molecular Sciences, SLU Uppsala, with access to state-of-the-art laboratories and a collaborative research environment.
• Connection to BSRC, a transdisciplinary centre linking academia (Linköping University, SLU) with ~50 industry and public-sector partners along the biogas value chain.
• Opportunity to co-produce knowledge with industry and society, ensuring long-term competence development.

How to Apply

Submit your application electronically no later than 31 August 2026 (reference number SLU.ua.2026.2.5.1-2034). The application must clearly state which project(s) you are applying for, indicate your first priority, and explain your choice. Selection will be based on attached documents and the applicant’s ability to complete the programme within the allotted time. For details on required attachments, see SLU’s doctoral application guidelines.

Employment start: upon agreement, but no later than December 2026.

Contact: Professor Anna Schnürer, +46734231517, [email protected] (for questions about the positions).

Original vacancy