Postdoc in Electrochemical mercury removal from concentrated acids

Om jobbet

We are looking for a postdoc to join our vibrant research group at the Division of Chemical Physics, Department of Physics and Astronomy, to advance knowledge in the field of electrochemical mercury removal from sulfuric acid production.

About us

The Division of Chemical Physics at the Department of Physics and Astronomy focuses on the investigation of functional nanomaterials, where most projects are connected to the development of improved sustainable materials for energy storage, electrolysis, fuel cells, fuel production, purification of aqueous solutions and photovoltaics. Chemical Physics performs cutting-edge research by using its strong interdisciplinarity; it combines both experimental and theoretical expertise, spanning from the investigation of surface plasmons and the design of nano-structured catalyst materials to density functional theory calculations to understand surface reactions and materials on an atomic level. It provides an international and family-friendly environment that highly cherishes Chalmers fundamental values: quality, openness, inclusion, respect, and diversity. We highly support the professional growth of our employees, for instance, by offering specialized courses and participation in international conferences and summer/winter schools.

The Electrochemistry group at the Division of Chemical Physics performs research in the fields of electrocatalysis, with focus on materials and surface reactions for environmental and sustainable energy applications. The activities include studies of electrodes and catalysts for low temperature fuel cells, electrochemical hydrogen generation, batteries, as well as heavy metal removal from aqueous solutions. By designing well controlled model systems in combination with powerful analysis and characterization techniques, improved understanding of a large range of important electrochemical systems is obtained.

About the research project

Sulfuric acid is one of the most widely used chemicals globally, with annual production exceeding 200 million tonnes. It plays a critical role in industries such as mining, fertilizers, paper and pulp, and chemical manufacturing. A significant portion of this acid is produced as a byproduct of zinc and copper smelting, where it often becomes contaminated with mercury. This mercury is subsequently transferred into products and waste streams, contributing to elevated environmental mercury levels and increased human exposure.

It is estimated that around 300 tonnes of mercury are released annually through these processes, making them one of the top three sources of anthropogenic mercury emissions worldwide. Currently, no commercial method exists to remove mercury from sulfuric acid produced at smelters. As a result, all mercury present in the acid is carried into downstream processes and ultimately into the environment. Mercury is a highly toxic heavy metal that poses serious risks to all living organisms. Globally, around 19 million people are exposed to hazardous mercury levels through food and water. In Sweden, mercury-contaminated waters remain a significant concern, with a majority of our lakes and coastal areas exhibiting levels that threaten both human health and ecosystems.

We have recently demonstrated an electrochemical method capable of removing more than 98% of mercury from real concentrated sulfuric acid sourced from a smelting plant in small-scale laboratory tests. The project will extend and enable this method for industrial application. You will develop materials and processes enabling this technique to be scaled up and implemented globally. The research includes optimization of the electrochemical processes for mercury removal as well as safe and efficient retrieval of the removed mercury and regeneration of electrodes to create a circular process.

Who we are looking for

The following requirements are mandatory:

• A doctoral degree in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or equivalent. This eligibility requirement must be met no later than the time the employment decision is made
• Strong hands-on experience in electrochemistry and/or electrolysis
• Strong hands-on experience in material characterization and/or chemical analysis
• Willingness to pro-actively collaborate in a network of academia and industry
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English

The following experience will strengthen your application:

• Experience materials design and materials selection
• Experience in chemical reaction development
• Expertise in complementary methods such as ICP-MS, XRD, XPS, SEM, TEM, EDX
• Scripting in Matlab, Python or equivalent languages for data analysis
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals

What you will do

• Perform research in our group (sample preparation, carrying out experiments, characterization, writing of publications)
• Develop and optimize materials and processes
• Collaborate with academic and industrial partners

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.

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 June 7, 2026

For questions please contact:

Björn Wickman, Associate professor
Email: bjorn.wickman@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.

Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society.

The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our eight Areas of Advance; Built Environment, Energy, Information & Communication Technology, Life Science, Materials Science, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!

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