Two PhD Positions in Biogas Processes and Process Microbiology — Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences

About the Role

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) invites applications for two PhD positions in biogas processes and process microbiology. Both positions are based at the Department of Molecular Sciences in Uppsala and are linked to the national transdisciplinary centre Biogas Solutions Research Center (BSRC) and, for the first project, the Interreg project BEAR in collaboration with Luleå University of Technology and the University of Oulu. The research will be conducted within the Microbial Biotechnology group under the main supervision of Professor Anna Schnürer, with additional supervisors from the group and possible external supervisors from industry.

Project Descriptions

Project 1: Biogas Production from Agricultural Substrates – Process Optimisation

This project focuses on optimising biogas processes using agricultural feedstocks. As a PhD student, you will operate laboratory-scale biogas reactors to improve gas production and fertilizer quality. You will apply chemical and microbiological analyses, with opportunities for modelling.

• Drive and optimise laboratory-scale biogas processes
• Analyse process performance using chemical and microbiological methods
• Contribute to process modelling

Project 2: Process Microbiology

This project investigates microbial communities in various biogas processes. You will study how operational conditions affect microbial activity and process stability. The work involves molecular biology techniques and bioinformatics to analyse microbial communities in both laboratory and full-scale reactors.

• Apply molecular biology and bioinformatics to characterise microbial communities
• Identify microbial markers linked to specific process conditions
• Develop tools to predict process disturbances

Requirements

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in biology, microbiology, biotechnology, molecular biotechnology, bioinformatics, or a related field
• Very good command of English, spoken and written (equivalent to Swedish upper secondary English B/6)
• Strong motivation to contribute to the development of renewable energy systems
• Interest in biotechnology and industrial microbiology
• Ability to read and communicate scientific English
• Good communication and collaboration skills

Meritorious

• Knowledge of biogas processes
• Skills in modelling, programming, or statistics
• Knowledge of Swedish

What We Offer

• Full-time PhD employment (4 years) at SLU, Department of Molecular Sciences, Uppsala
• Salary according to local collective agreement with fixed salary steps
• Start date by agreement, latest December 2026
• Membership in a dynamic research group and collaboration with academic, industrial, and public partners within BSRC and the BEAR project
• Access to a stimulating and inclusive work environment with a focus on sustainability

How to Apply

Submit your application by 31 August 2026, quoting reference number SLU.ua.2026.2.5.1-2034. You may apply for one or both positions; clearly state which project(s) you are applying for, your priority order, and the reasons for your choice.

Your application must include the required attachments as specified on SLU’s PhD application guidelines. Selection among eligible candidates will be based on the submitted documents and the ability to successfully complete the doctoral education within the given timeframe.

Original vacancy