Job Description

Lulea

Reference number 6226-2025

Luleå University of Technology is in strong growth with world-leading competence in several research areas. We shape the future through innovative education and ground-breaking research results, and based on the Arctic region, we create global social benefit. Our scientific and artistic research and education are conducted in close collaboration with international, national and regional companies, public actors and leading universities. Luleå University of Technology has a total turnover of nearly SEK 2,1 billion per year. We currently have 1,900 employees and 18,700 students.

In the coming years, multi-billion investments will be made in large projects in Northern Sweden to create a fossil-free society both nationally and globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these cutting-edge research projects and in the societal transformation that they entail. We offer a broad range of courses and study programmes to match the skills in demand. We hope that you will help us to build the sustainable companies and societies of the future.

The research group in Biochemical Process Engineering is responsible for a versatile laboratory with key competencies for bio-based products and processes that include pre-treatment of biomass, fractionation, fermentation, conversion processes, green chemistry, upstream and downstream processes. The research topic is part of the Department of Civil and Natural Resources with approximately 350 employees: https://www.ltu.se/org/sbn

Biochemical process engineering (https://www.ltu.se/research/subjects/Biochemical-Process-Engineering) develops integrated processes that combine biotechnology and chemistry to produce food, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and energy carriers. In particular, the subject focuses on using bio-based raw materials (forest residues) for the development of biorefinery processes. The research topic consists of 10 senior researchers and several doctoral students.

The research group in Biochemical Process Engineering is announcing a Post Doc scholarship to participate in research concerning establishing a iOMICS integrated plastic biorefinery platform, which can be seamlessly integrated to attain a sustainable circular economy.

Subject description
Biochemical Process Engineering focuses on the development of biochemical processes for the production and refinement of chemicals, fuels and material from biomass.

Project description
The project concerns use of omics tools to develop a novel microbial platform for translating plastic into value-added products to attain a sustainable circular economy. Recent chemical recycling efforts by the Biochemical Process Engineering (BPE) group at LTU, has developed a novel set-up for ethylene glycol (EG) and terephthalic acid (TA) recovery from complex plastic components using mild alkaline hydrolysis. Microbial platforms such as microalgae/thraustochytrids have the potential to convert these monomers into biofuel precursors or nutraceuticals. The duration of the post-doc scholarship is 12 months, and the selected candidate will receive a stipendium for this period from the Kempe Foundations.

As a Postdoc you will plan, organize and perform the experimental work to achieve the goals set for the project. You will also analyze experimental data and present them in peer-reviewed scientific publications. Specifically, the position requires to decipher the crosstalk between metabolic pathways for candidate microbial platforms by employing transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics tools. You will also apply RNP-mediated CRISPR-Cas9 knockout of regulatory nodes identified by ‘iOMICS’ platform for fine production of value-added oleochemicals. Finally bioprocess engineering will be applied to the ‘synthetically’ designed microbe for upscaling the process.

Qualifications
In order to be eligible, you must have a PhD degree in biotechnology, microbiology, or relevant field. A strong background in the area of genetic engineering of microbial cells, especially using CRISPR/Cas9, is required. This should be documented in peer-reviewed scientific publications. Prior documented experience with genetic modification in microalgae/yeast is a strong merit.

We are looking for a motivated person with a strong interest for research and disciplined work habits. You must be able to function both independently and as part of a research group. Good observation and communication skills are important. In addition, you should master English, both spoken and written.

Further information
Postdoc scholarship for one year with placement in Luleå. Starting upon agreement.The project is planned to start as soon as possible and run for one year.

For more information, please contact: Dr. Alok Kumar Patel, Senior Lecturer in Biochemical Process Engineering (+ 46) 920-491570, alok.kumar.patel@ltu.se

Application
You should apply for this scholarship by using the apply button below. The application should contain a personal letter describing your research experience and interests, CV and copies of verified diplomas and transcripts from universities. The application must be written in English.

Last day of application: 5 January 2026
Reference number: 6226-2025