Postdoc in Biobased Polymer Science

We are looking for a postdoc to join our team at the Division of Industrial Biotechnolgy, Department of Life Sciences. Become part of our innovative group and contribute to exciting research in biobased polymers and fibers within a collaborative and dynamic environment.

About us

The Department of Life Sciences conducts research, innovation, and education to enable a biobased society and improve human health. We explore how biological systems, and innovative technologies can be used to convert biomass into valuable products. We use advanced computational technologies to discover how biomolecules and organisms function and interact. We pioneer new methods for prediction, prevention, diagnostics and treatment of diseases.

At the Division of Industrial Biotechnology, we combine fundamental and applied research that contributes to the development of a bio-based, sustainable society. In particular, we focus on microbial processes and enzymes acting on renewable biomass.

About the research project

The project focuses on the valorization of renewable side streams into high-performance materials for applications such as packaging, textiles, and advanced biocomposites. The successful candidate will work on biomass processing, polymer formulation, fiber development, and material characterization, contributing to innovative circular solutions that support the transition toward a bio-based economy.

The project is connected to the Wallenberg Wood Science Center (WWSC), a leading Swedish research center focused on the sustainable utilization of forest resources and the development of innovative materials from wood and biomass. WWSC brings together researchers from academia and industry in an interdisciplinary environment, offering strong opportunities for collaboration, networking, and access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure.

Who we are looking for

The following requirements are mandatory:

• A doctoral degree in Polymer Science, Materials Science, Biotechnology, Fiber Engineering, or a related field, or an equivalent foreign degree. This eligibility requirement must be met no later than the time the employment decision is made.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Experience in biobased polymers, biomass valorization, lignocellulosic and/or fungal biomass processing, polymer formulation, material characterization, or sustainable material development.
• Personal competences in accordance with the requirements profile, including strong collaboration and communication skills, the ability to work independently and in interdisciplinary teams, creativity, and a proactive approach to research and problem-solving.

You are expected to be somewhat accustomed to teaching/supervision, and to demonstrate good potential within research and education.

The following experience will strengthen your application:

• It is highly meritorious if the doctoral degree has been obtained within the last three years prior to the application deadline
• Experience with bioprocessing, extrusion, thermoforming, fiber spinning or biocomposite production is considered an advantage.

What you will do

• Conduct research on the development of biobased polymers and fibers from forest and fungal biomasses, including experimental and analytical work. Perform biomass processing, material formulation, characterization, and data analysis.
• Write scientific publications, technical reports, and contribute to project dissemination activities.
• Collaborate closely with project partners, researchers, and industrial stakeholders in interdisciplinary and international environments.
• Supervise master's and/or PhD students to a certain extent
• Possibility to engage in teaching at undergraduate/master's level

The position is meritorious for future roles in academia, industry, or the public sector.

Contract terms

The position is a temporary full-time employment for two years.

The position requires physical presence throughout the entire employment. A valid residence permit must be presented by the start date, otherwise the offer may be withdrawn.

What we offer

• As a postdoc at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

• A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.

• Read more about Sweden's generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare etc at Move To Gothenburg.

Chalmers is dedicated to improving gender balance and actively works with equality projects, such as the GENIE Initiative for gender equality and excellence. We celebrate diversity and consider equality and inclusion as fundamental aspects of all our activities.

If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in.

Application procedure

The application should be written in English be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.

CV

• A comprehensive CV, including a complete list of publications.
• Details of previous teaching and pedagogical experience.

Personal letter

• A brief introduction about yourself.
• A summary of your previous research fields and key research outcomes.
• An outline of your future goals and research focus.

Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.

A background check may be conducted as part of the application process.

Please note:The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. Contact details to references will be requested after the interview.

We welcome your application no later than 17 June 2026

For questions please contact:

Amparo Jiménez Quero
Docent, Assist. Prof.
amparo@chalmers.se

We look forward to your application!

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***

Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has 3100 employees and 10,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture. With scientific excellence as a basis, Chalmers promotes knowledge and technical solutions for a sustainable world. Through global commitment and entrepreneurship, we foster an innovative spirit, in close collaboration with wider society.
Chalmers was founded in 1829 and has the same motto today as it did then: Avancez - forward.

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