Assistant Researcher in Natural Sciences, specializing in Environmental Science
University of Gothenburg meets society's challenges with versatile knowledge. 58,000 students and 6,800 employees make the university a large and inspiring workplace. Strong research and attractive education attract researchers and students from all over the world. With new knowledge and new perspectives, University of Gothenburg contributes to a better future.
The Department of Geosciences has approximately 75 employees working in geology, physical geography, and ecosystem science. Our three prioritized research themes are ”Geosphere”, ”Surface Processes” and ”Climate and Climate Change”. The department's mission is to develop and conduct research, education, and community service that deepens the understanding of processes in the Earth system and the effects of human impact. We work for an inclusive and diverse working environment as well as a family-friendly workplace. More information can be found on our website: https://www.gu.se/geovetenskaper
The hydrogeology research group (https://www.gu.se/en/research/hydrogeology-group) belongs to the research theme ”Geosphere” and works with fundamental research, teaching, and stakeholder activities within the fields of hydrogeology, contaminant hydrogeology, and hydrogeochemistry. The hydrogeology group focuses on two main research topics; a) freshwater resources under changing environmental and climate conditions and b) the behavior of contaminants in the subsurface. The hydrogeology group has access to state-of-the-art equipment for stable isotope and elemental analyses, and has strong relationships with international research groups and private companies in Germany, Switzerland, Canada, USA, and France.
The hydrogeology research group is recruiting an assistant researcher to contribute to the project: ”Artificial groundwater recharge – a shortcut for harmful poly- and perfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) to groundwater systems and drinking water supplies – can we avoid this?”
Tasks
The assistant researcher will investigate the infiltration of PFAS into groundwater systems at artificial groundwater recharge facilities and develop methods to avoid this. The project is carried out in collaboration with professor Lutz Ahrens (Sveriges lantbruksuniversitet, SLU), Philip McLeaf (Uppsala Vatten och Avfall) and Britt-Marie Pott (Envidan). A large part of the project will involve fieldwork at two artificial groundwater recharge facilities in Uppsala and Skåne, combined with laboratory investigations at the Department of Geosciences at University of Gothenburg.
Qualifications
Upon commencement of employment, the applicant must hold a doctoral degree in environmental geology, contaminant hydrogeology, environmental chemistry, or a related field, as well as documented experience of PFAS analysis with LC–MS/MS, including techniques for pre-concentration through solid-phase extraction. Experience in conducting column experiments and field sampling of surface water and groundwater, especially at artificial groundwater recharge facilities, is also a requirement, as well as very good knowledge of English in both speech and writing.
Experience in numerical modeling or simulation is meritorious.
Employment
Form of employment: temporary employment on a full-time basis for 7 months, from 1 November 2026 to 30 June 2027.
Location: Department of Geosciences, University of Gothenburg
Contact information for the position
If you have questions about the position, please contact Dr. Philipp Wanner, mailto:philipp.wanner@gu.se
Application
You apply via University of Gothenburg's recruitment portal. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete according to the instructions in the advertisement and that it is submitted before the application deadline.
The application must contain:
A cover letter with a motivation describing the applicant's suitability for the position (max one A4 page) A CV including education, qualifications, and previous experience A copy of degree certificates and a transcript of courses with grades A copy of the dissertation and/or master's thesis (or equivalent) Other documents that the applicant considers important Contact information for at least two references who are familiar with the applicant's qualifications.
Application must be received no later than: 2026-09-06
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