PhD student in nature-inspired biochar–enzyme composites for PFAS remediation

The Department of Geosciences is Sweden's most comprehensive academic environment for research and education in geosciences. Here, there is a broad range of expertise contributing to solutions for important societal issues.

Our research combines natural sciences and technology with social sciences and is often interdisciplinary. At the department, over 300 people from more than 30 countries work, both in Uppsala and at Campus Gotland.

Our six research divisions:

• Geophysics • Air, water and landscape studies • Mineralogy, petrology and tectonics • Natural resources and sustainable development • Paleobiology • Wind energy

For more information see: www.uu.se/geovetenskaper

Project description:

The project, EnzCarb4PFAS, focuses on developing lignin-based biochar materials with high PFAS sorption capacity and immobilizing enzymes on their surfaces to enable simultaneous adsorption and catalytic defluorination. Lignin, a renewable byproduct from the pulp and paper industry, is converted into highly porous biochar that concentrates PFAS from contaminated water. Enzyme immobilization on the biochar surface extends the enzyme's lifespan, improves substrate availability, and creates a synergistic system where adsorption brings PFAS into close contact with the enzyme's active centers. The research progresses through three coordinated work packages: (AP1) screening of extracellular enzymes for PFAS transformation with real contaminated groundwater; (AP2) development and validation of biochar–enzyme composites; and (AP3) pilot-scale testing in lysimeter systems with contaminated water and soil from former fire training sites.

The PhD student will work under the primary supervision of Associate Professor Tetyana Budnyak and co-supervision of Professor Fritjof Fagerlund. The project is funded by a Tuffo grant, with co-financing from Uppsala University. The research subject you are pursuing a doctorate in is environmental analysis. The project will involve close collaboration with industrial partners and other relevant actors, as well as academic research groups in Sweden and internationally, providing the PhD student with the opportunity to work in a broad, interdisciplinary, and collaborative research environment.

Tasks

The main task for a PhD student is to devote themselves to their doctoral education, which includes both participation in research projects and doctoral training courses. The tasks may also include participation in teaching and other departmental work, however, a maximum of 20% of the working time.

The tasks will include the synthesis and characterization of lignin-based biochar materials, screening and immobilization of enzymes, as well as evaluation of PFAS adsorption and degradation performance in laboratory column experiments and pilot-scale lysimeter systems with real PFAS-contaminated soil and groundwater.

Qualification requirements

Eligible for doctoral studies is the person who has

earned a degree at an advanced level in chemistry, biochemistry, environmental chemistry, materials science, environmental technology or related areas completed at least 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 higher education credits are at an advanced level including an independent project of at least 15 higher education credits, or in some other way acquired substantially equivalent knowledge.

We highly value personal qualities and are interested in individuals who are decisive, structured, well-organized, have strong analytical abilities, and are interested in project planning and leadership. The PhD student needs to be able to work effectively both independently and in a group, be able to lead and drive scientific projects, and simultaneously collaborate with other researchers. We are looking for a PhD student who is strongly motivated to complete doctoral studies within this interdisciplinary subject and who approaches their tasks in a focused manner. We expect the PhD student to be proficient in both spoken and written English to communicate effectively with all colleagues and to publish internationally.

Other desirable/meritorious qualifications

Applicants expecting to obtain their MSc in the near future are also encouraged to apply.

It is meritorious, though not a requirement, if the candidate has certain experience in one or more of the following areas:

experience in PFAS analysis, water treatment technologies or environmental remediation methods, characterization of physico-chemical materials knowledge in data analysis and visualization

Provisions for doctoral students can be found in the Higher Education Ordinance (Högskoleförordningen) Chapter 5, Sections 1-7, as well as in the university's rules and guidelines.

In this recruitment, we have replaced the personal letter with questions that you answer in connection with your application. The answers will be used as part of the selection process.

About the employment

The employment is fixed-term, according to HF Chapter 5, Section 7. The extent is full-time. Commencement 1 January 2027 or by agreement. Location: Uppsala

Information about the employment is provided by: Associate University Lecturer Tetyana Budnyak (tetyana.budnyak@geo.uu.se)

Welcome with your application no later than 18 September 2026, UFV-PA 2026/2467.

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international position. The ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a difference in society. Our most important asset is all 7,500 employees and 53,000 students who, with curiosity and engagement, make Uppsala University one of the country's most exciting workplaces.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University

https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/

The employment may be subject to security clearance. In the case of security clearance, approval of the applicant is a prerequisite for employment.

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Applications are received in Uppsala University's recruitment system.

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