Postdoctoral Fellow in Organic Geochemistry/ Paleoclimate

The Department of Environmental Science is one of the biggest departments at the Faculty of Science. The department consists of four units with more than 170 researchers, teachers, doctoral students and technical/administrative staff from over 30 countries. Research and teaching focuses on chemical contaminants, atmospheric science, biogeochemistry and (eco)toxicology. As an employee at the Department of Environmental Science you will be part of a dynamic environment with research in leading research areas and with a strong international profile.

More information about us, please visit: the Department of Environmental Science.

Project description

The Canadian Beaufort Sea shelf is an ideal region to look for the effect of sea level rise, and large freshwater input on Holocene primary productivity, sea-ice cover and ocean acidification. In parallel, the shallow lakes of the Mackenzie region in the Northwestern Territories (Canada) are at the forefront of recent climatic disturbances, with rising winter air temperatures, change of the timing of the spring freshet and decreased precipitation. Scientific questions can also relate to shifting methane dynamics in a changing Arctic.

Main responsibilities

You will be responsible for extracting and analyzing biomarkers from the Canadian Arctic. Samples are available from previous expeditions (Warm COCOA, FLO CHAR, PeCaBeau) but possibilities will happen to join expeditions to target specific samples. The research will involve intensive laboratory work including the use of gas-chromatographic and stable isotope methods (GC, GC-IRMS, GC-MS), this includes setting up new methods with the support of skilled technicians. We are particularly looking for novel and exciting biomarkers methods such as (but not limited to) bacteriohopanpolyol (BHP) as well as levoglucosan concentration in marine and lake sediments, hydrogen isotope ratios of sterols and alkenones, carbon isotope ratios of GDGT, compound-specific radiocarbon analysis. Scientific interest can range from modern environmental questions to paleoclimate reconstructions. 

Qualification requirements

In order to qualify for a Postdoctoral position, applicants are required to hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent relevant degree from another country. The degree must have been completed no later than when the employment decision is made.

Assessment criteria

It is considered an advantage if the doctoral degree or an equivalent degree was completed no more than three years prior to the application deadline. Under special circumstances, an older degree may also be an advantage. Special circumstances 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.

We are looking for a flexible and motivated candidate that is interested in growing in a new group within an established department. The candidate should have a PhD in organic geochemistry, environmental sciences, geoscience, chemistry, or a related discipline, preferentially with previous experience with the analysis of organic compounds. An interest in paleoclimatology/aquatic geochemistry is expected. As you will work in an international environment the ability to work in an interdisciplinary team and good communication skills including fluency in English are essential. Selection will be based on the quality and ambition of the statement of scientific interest, scientific publications, references, and interview.

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 2025-12-01 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 Julie Lattaud, julie.lattaud@aces.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.