Researcher in Lignin for Electrochemical Water Purification

The Department of Chemistry, with more than 200 employees, is one of the largest departments at Stockholm University. Research at the Department spans all areas of chemistry, including analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, materials chemistry, inorganic and structural chemistry, and organic chemistry. The research projects range from theory to experimentation, from pure basic research to more applied projects, often with a focus on sustainable chemistry and advanced analytical methods for chemicals and materials. The Department has a highly developed research infrastructure with extensive equipment and qualified support from staff researchers. It is also responsible for undergraduate education in chemistry as well as three Master’s programmes: Analytical Chemistry, Sustainable Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry. Doctoral studies 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 Chemistry.

Project description

This research position is connected to the Åforsk project “Cost-effective Lignin Electrodes for Versatile Electrochemical Ion Recovery”. The employment is limited to 1 year, and the researcher will have a leading role in driving the project from start to finish.

The researcher will focus on the development of lignin-based materials for use as electrodes in capacitive electrochemical water purification. The work mainly includes techniques to tailor the material properties of lignin, such as increasing surface area, creating desirable pore structures, and improving conductivity. Additional functionalisation may also be relevant to enhance properties or achieve ion selectivity. Furthermore, the developed materials will be tested for applications in desalination and water purification. The researcher will work within an interdisciplinary team with deep expertise in both lignin and water purification processes.

The position is placed in the research group Sustainable Materials Chemistry (SUSMATCHEM), which develops materials from industrial side streams with a special focus on lignin. The group consists of approximately 25 members with broad competence in chemistry and engineering. The researcher will also work closely with Dr Johan Nordstrand, who specialises in water purification using capacitive deionisation (CDI).

Main responsibilities

Scientific research. The researcher is expected to manage a project involving materials development, characterisation, and implementation of lignin for electrochemical water purification. The researcher is also expected to contribute to project management, communication, and dissemination of research results.

Qualification requirements

Researchers are appointed primarily for purposes of research and must hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent degree from another country.

Assessment criteria

Special emphasis will be placed on scientific excellence. The applicant is expected to take initiative and lead a research project in an interdisciplinary collaborative environment. Documented experience in relevant materials development, such as lignin chemistry or electrode synthesis, is a strong merit. Documented experience with characterisation techniques relevant to electrode development is also a merit. Experience in electrochemistry or water purification processes, especially capacitive deionisation (CDI), is considered an advantage. Applicants must have excellent English proficiency, both spoken and written.

About the employment

The position involves full-time employment for a maximum of 12 months. Start date 2026-01-01 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

Information about the position is provided by the Head of Department, Professor 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.