Postdoctoral Fellow in Microbial Lignin Materials Chemistry

The Department of Chemistry with more than 200 employees, is one of the largest departments at Stockholm University. The Research spans all areas of chemistry such as analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, materials chemistry, inorganic and structural chemistry and organic chemistry. The research projects are many from theory to experiment, from basic research to more applied projects often focusing on sustainable chemistry but also advanced analytical methods of chemicals and materials. The department has a very well-developed research infrastructure with state-of-the-art equipment with qualified support from staff scientists.

The department also hosts the Bachelor's degree programme in chemistry and three Master's programmes: analytical chemistry, sustainable chemistry, and organic chemistry. PhD programmes are conducted in five areas: analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, materials chemistry, inorganic chemistry and organic chemistry. More information about us, please visit: the Department of Material and Environmental Chemistry and the Department of Organic Chemistry.

Project description

Project title: Lignin-based hybrid living materials (LignoLife)

We are offering a Postdoctoral Fellow position within the LignoLife project, funded by the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation through the Wallenberg Academy Fellows program. This project focuses on developing innovative materials by combining living microbial cells with lignin—creating new opportunities for sustainable and functional biomaterials. You will be responsible for developing methodologies and conducting microbial cultivations to identify suitable microbial strains for various applications, such as biocompatibility, self-healing properties, or biodegradation potential.

This position is within the Sustainable Materials Chemistry (SUSMATCHEM) research group, which focuses on developing materials from industrial side-streams, with lignin as a key area. The group includes around 25 members with diverse expertise in chemistry and engineering. You will collaborate within this interdisciplinary team and conduct bottom-up research on hybrid living materials, contributing to the broader goal of replacing fossil-based materials and promoting sustainable solutions.

Main responsibilities

Scientific research and education. The practical work involves microbiological research aimed at identifying suitable microorganisms that tolerate lignin and form new functional hybrid materials. It is of interest to explore their origin from the synergistic combination of lignin and living cells, which leads to useful properties and chemical transformations with broad applications in the fields of environment, health, and energy.

Qualification requirements

Postdoctoral positions are appointed primarily for purposes of research. Applicants are expected to hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent degree from another country.

Assessment criteria

The degree must have been completed at latest before the employment decision is made, but no more than three years before the closing date. An older degree may be acceptable under special circumstances. Special reasons refer to sick leave, parental leave, elected positions in trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances as well as clinical attachment or service/assignments relevant to the subject area.

In the appointment process, special attention will be given to research skills in biotechnology, applied microbiology, or related fields, with a strong interest in materials chemistry. The ideal applicant is equipped with a problem-solving “can-do” mindset combined with a strong track-record of original research at the crossroads of microbiology and materials chemistry. Strong skillset in biotechnology, especially from cultivation of filamentous fungi along with experience from colloid science is considered an asset. In addition, demonstrated record of accomplishment in applied chemistry and broad knowledge of related processing and characterization methods are considered as merits for the applicant. Experience from materials characterization is an additional asset. You should have an excellent command of English, both orally and in writing.

About the employment

The position involves full-time employment for a minimum of two years and a maximum of three years, with the possibility of extension under special circumstances. Start date 2025-06-01 or as per agreement.

We offer

With us, you will experience the dynamic interaction between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international environment and get favourable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good transport links to the city.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact

Further information about the position can be obtained from Mika Sipponen, mika.sipponen@su.se. For general information about the Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, please contact the Head of the Department, Prof. Niklas Hedin, niklas.hedin@su.se.

Application

Apply for the position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

The instructions for applicants are available at: How to apply for a position.