Advanced screening & prioritisation of emerging contaminants in food chains

SVERIGES LANTBRUKSUNIVERSITET

Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment Third-cycle subject area Environmental assessment, specialising in environmental chemistry Description of the doctoral project     This doctoral project aims to develop an analytically robust strategy to identify, measure and interpret contaminants of emerging concern relevant for water-related human exposure. The project will use existing information from pan-European monitoring campaigns stored in the NORMAN chemical occurrence database to identify substances that may occur in water resources and contribute to human exposure. Based on this evidence, the doctoral student will develop and validate analytical methodologies for selected emerging substances and apply them to water-related samples collected at national or international level. The results will be interpreted using hazard, exposure and risk indicators to support the prioritisation of substances for future monitoring. In addition, suspect and non-target screening will be applied to reveal novel compounds that may contribute to early-warning systems for emerging chemical risks. The project includes i) selecting contaminants of emerging concern re-using European monitoring data and their chemical properties; ii) developing and validating an LC-HRMS-based target method for emerging substances; iii) applying the method to water-related samples (drinking water, precipitation); iv) comparing LC-HRMS with LC-MS/MS for selected compounds to assess sensitivity, linearity, precision and suitability for monitoring; and v) interpreting the results in relation to human exposure You will work in an international, interdisciplinary team. The project provides access to advanced instrumentation and training in data analysis, scientific communication, and collaborative research. About the position We are seeking a PhD student who will advance the understanding of contaminants of emerging concern in water-related pathways of human exposure, with a particular focus on analytical method development and high-resolution mass spectrometry. To achieve this aim, you will develop and apply analytical workflows for the determination of selected emerging substances in water-related samples collected at national or international level. The selection of substances will be guided by existing information. Central to the project is the use of liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) for sensitive and reliable chemical analysis. Analysis of polar substances may require the use of specialised LC columns. The project may also include comparison with LC-MS/MS for selected compounds to assess sensitivity, linearity, precision and suitability for monitoring. Selected samples may be processed using effect-directed analysis (EDA) to link chemical presence with biological effects. The duties also include sample preparation, extraction and analysis of contaminants, processing of HRMS datasets, quality assurance, data analysis, visualisation and interpretation of results using hazard, exposure and risk indicators, collaboration with national and international partners, and scientific manuscript writing in English. Requirements To meet the general entry requirements you must have been awarded a second-cycle (Master’s) qualification, satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second-cycle, or acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad (Higher Education Ordinance 1993:100, Chapter 7, Section 39). Specific entry requirements for the third-cycle courses and study programme in environmental assessment, specialising in environmental chemistry. To meet the specific entry requirements, you must have knowledge of aquatic ecology, aquatic biogeochemistry, statistics or ecotoxicology. The undergraduate degree must include a degree project. You must also meet the equivalent English language requirements as those necessary for the Swedish upper-secondary qualification Engelska B/6. Your profile Applicants shall hold an MSc in analytical chemistry, environmental chemistry, environmental science, toxicology or equivalent. Specialisation in chemical analysis of water contaminants and experience with LC-MS or LC-HRMS are valuable merits. Previous experience with laboratory work, sample preparation, extraction and analysis of organic contaminants is advantageous. Experience with method development, method validation, quality assurance or the analysis of water-related matrices is also considered a merit. Experience with suspect and nontarget screening workflows is highly desirable. Data processing skills using statistical computing and visualization tools (e.g. R, Python or similar) are also considered a merit. The ability to handle large analytical datasets and to work in a structured and reproducible way is important for the project. Emphasis is also placed on personal characteristics such as strong interpersonal skills, analytical and problem-solving abilities, accuracy, motivation, and the capacity to work independently as well as in collaboration with others. Read more here: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/jobs-and-vacancies/doktorand2/   Form of employmentEmployment as a doctoral student (4-year programme). Doctoral student’s salaries are set following the local collective agreement. Salary progression is fixed. Location:Uppsala Scope:100% Start date:Upon agreement. Application and selection:Please submit your application using the link below. The deadline is 28 August 2026.   The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has a key role in the development for sustainable life, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interaction between humans, animals and ecosystems and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Our main campuses are located in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala, however, the university also operates at research stations, experimental forests and teaching sites throughout Sweden. SLU has around 4,000 employees, 6,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 4,5 billion. We are investing in attractive environments on all of our campuses.

SVERIGES LANTBRUKSUNIVERSITET

Department of Molecular Sciences Third-cycle subject area: Chemistry Description of the doctoral project Do you want to work in a project that aims to replace fossil sources with forest raw materials for the production of biomaterials? Are you interested in immersing yourself in molecular interactions at the atomic level with advanced analytical instruments? Do you want to work with a whole group of researchers who share these interests? If so, this could be a PhD position for you. The overall goal of this PhD project is to enzymatically modify glycans from hemicellulose to produce bio-based crosslinkers for applications in adhesives, hydrogels and other crosslinked materials. However, many materials that we consider bio-based, such as wood fibreboards, hydrogels and stabilizers from non-fossil polymers, still rely on crosslinkers that have fossil origins and are often very harmful chemicals. Fibreboards for furniture, construction and insulation typically contain around 9% glue consisting of urea formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is classified as a known human carcinogen and its emissions from fibreboards are a major concern. Oxidative enzymes will be used on hemicellulose substrates, such as xyloglucan and glucomannan, to obtain aldehyde and ketone functions on the sugar ring in parallel with a partial degradation to oligosaccharides. The expected result is a collection of non-toxic, bio-based crosslinkers that can potentially replace formaldehyde and similar fossil-based crosslinkers. About the position You will be part of a research group conducting research in organic chemistry and biotechnology with a focus on structural analysis of enzymes and carbohydrate substrates using NMR spectroscopy, as well as the development of new methods for studying interactions between proteins and carbohydrates using NMR spectroscopy. The project includes a lot of laboratory work and will be carried out with an advanced level of characterization using NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry to be able to draw conclusions about the structural composition of the crosslinkers and the crosslinked materials. To achieve these goals while ensuring a productive and enriching environment, the project includes supervision in organic chemistry, enzymology and wood technology. The position also includes teaching up to 20% of the time. Requirements To meet the general entry requirements you must have: been awarded a second-cycle (Master’s) qualification; satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second-cycle, or acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad (Higher Education Ordinance 1993:100, Chapter 7, Section 39). Specific entry requirements for the third-cycle courses and study programme in chemistry: To meet the specific entry requirements, you must have at least 60 HEC in chemistry-related subjects (general, analytical, inorganic, organic and physical chemistry as well as biochemistry). This must include a degree project and at least 30 HEC must be at second-cycle level. You must also meet the equivalent English language requirements as those necessary for the Swedish upper-secondary qualification Engelska B/6. Your profile We are looking for a highly motivated candidate who has a master's degree in a field relevant to the position, for example in organic chemistry, biotechnology, molecular biology or equivalent. A focus on biochemistry or organic chemistry with experience in laboratory work are valuable merits, as are experience in NMR spectroscopy and/or protein expression and purification. Great emphasis is placed on personal qualities such as collaborative skills, analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to work independently. Good knowledge of English (both spoken and written) is required. About us You will be placed in the subject of organic chemistry at the Department of Molecular Sciences, SLU, Uppsala. The department consists of about 100 employees and, together with three other departments, forms an inspiring research environment at the BioCenter on the Ultuna campus in Uppsala. At the BioCenter there is broad expertise in plant biology, plant pathology, plant genetics, mycology, microbiology, food science, chemistry and biotechnology. We have access to advanced infrastructure such as a fermentation lab, advanced microscopy, X-ray diffraction, mass spectrometry and NMR spectroscopy. The department conducts research and teaching in chemistry, biotechnology, food science and microbiology. Our research projects include among other things enzymatic degradation of forest raw materials, production of fish feed from yeasts, programmed cell death in plants and biogas production. More information about the department is available at https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/organisation/departments/molecular-sciences/. Read more about staff benefits and life as an SLU employee on https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/  Read more about third-cycle courses and study programmes onhttp://www.slu.se/utbildning/program-kurser/forskarutbildning/ Form of employment   Employment as a doctoral student (4-year programme).   Doctoral student’s salaries are set following the local collective agreement. Salary progression is fixed. Scope:   100%   Location:   Uppsala   Start date:    Upon agreement, but no later than December 2026.   Application and selection:   Please submit your application using the link below. The deadline is August 5, 2026.   Read more about the attachments that your application should include at https://www.slu.se/en/study/programmes-courses/doctoral-education/how-can-i-become-a-doctoral-student/application/ Selection among eligible applicants is based on the documents attached to the application, and is carried out with regard to the applicant’s ability to complete the programme within the allotted time. Academic union representatives: https://internt.slu.se/en/my-employment/employee-associations/kontaktpersoner-vid-rekrytering/ Note: This is a shortened version of the advertisement adapted to the Swedish Public Employment   Service’s (Platsbanken) system. Please see the full advertisement on SLU’s website:   https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/jobs-and-vacancies/

SVERIGES LANTBRUKSUNIVERSITET

Department of Forest Bioeconomy and Technology Do you want to help shape the future of sustainable materials? We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to advance the design of next-generation bio-based adhesives that meet both sustainability targets and industrial performance requirements. In this project, you will combine cutting-edge approaches in polymer science and AI-driven modelling to develop predictive frameworks and high-performance adhesive systems for furniture, construction and packaging industries. You will work at the interface of fundamental science and real-world application, contributing to the transition toward a more sustainable materials economy. If you have a strong research background and a drive for innovation, this position offers an exciting opportunity to take the next step in your academic career! The recruitment is done within the BioGlue-Centre “Competence Centre for Bio-based Adhesives”, which is a Vinnova Competence Centre in Sustainable Industry and Digital Transformation. The vision of the Centre is to significantly reduce the dependency on fossil-based materials in the adhesive industry by developing paradigm-shifting knowledge of bio-based adhesives and becoming a world-leading research environment in Sweden. It is built around a network of top-scientists with expertise in polymer science, adhesives, technology, and sustainability located at the Department of Forest Bioeconomy and Technology at SLU (https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/organisation/departments/department-of-forest-bioeconomy-and-technology/), the Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology at KTH (https://www.kth.se/fpt/fibre-and-polymer-technology-1.778696), and the Department of Forestry and Wood Technology at Linnaeus University (https://lnu.se/en/meet-linnaeus-university/Organisation/faculty-of-technology/meet-the-faculty-of-technology/forestry-and-wood/). The Centre unites 13 companies along the value chain in furniture, packaging and construction sectors that share the same research questions around adhesives and adhesive bonding. About the position The development of bio-based adhesives is currently limited by a lack of predictive understanding of how formulation chemistry translates into material performance. This project addresses this challenge by establishing a data-driven framework for the rational design of high-performance bio-adhesives. As a postdoctoral researcher, you will work on integrating experimental formulation, molecular-level characterization, and machine learning to develop predictive models linking chemical descriptors to adhesive properties. The work includes the development of a structured formulation library, systematic mapping of key performance indicators, and the implementation of data-driven optimization strategies to identify high-performing systems. Machine learning approaches will be used to uncover structure-property relationships and guide formulation design. The project combines experimental and computational approaches and includes validation of selected formulations on industrially relevant substrates. You will collaborate closely with academic and industrial partners and contribute to the development of a transferable predictive toolbox for next-generation sustainable adhesives. Your profile We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with a doctoral degree obtained within the last three years in materials science, polymer science, chemistry, chemical engineering, or a closely related field. The ideal candidate has strong expertise in polymer formulation and structure-property relationships, particularly in the modification and crosslinking of bio-based or functional polymers for adhesive or related applications. Experience with advanced material characterisation techniques is expected. A strong interest in data-driven research is essential. Experience with modelling approaches, data analysis, or machine learning applied to materials or chemical systems is considered a strong merit. You are expected to have excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken, and a clear motivation to pursue an academic career. The ability to work independently, take initiative, and collaborate effectively in an interdisciplinary and international research environment is essential. In the evaluation of candidates, particular emphasis will be placed on (1) scientific excellence in polymer and materials science, (2) experience or demonstrated potential in applying machine learning and data-driven approaches to materials or formulation design, and (3) the ability to contribute to and expand ongoing research activities within the group. About us The Department of Forest Bioeconomy and Technology at SLU brings together expertise in technology, natural and social sciences. The department provides world-class interdisciplinary environment for research and education in the circular bioeconomy, with activities at the campuses in Umeå and Uppsala, and nationally and internationally. Our work spans the entire value chain of the forest-based bioeconomy – from analysing how resources can be used and governed to developing technologies, materials, and industrial processes for sustainable bio-based products and systems. The Department is responsible for education at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels and collaborates closely with both industry and academia nationally and internationally. With us, you can help shape a more sustainable bio-based society. For more information about the department or division visit: https://www.slu.se/om-slu/organisation/institutioner/skoglig-bioekonomi-och-teknologi/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21086656031&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIwMj3yOmalQMVdluRBR3n7yxAEAAYASAAEgKD_fD_BwE Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/ Location: Uppsala Form of employment: Temporary employment 24 months, with the possibility of extension. Scope: 100% Start date: The position may start as agreed between both parties but not later than January 1, 2027. Application: Please submit your application before deadline 16 August 2026. You can submit your application by clicking the button below. Union representatives: https://internt.slu.se/en/my-employment/employee-associations/kontaktpersoner-vid-rekrytering/