PhD student in energy and environmental engineering with a focus on biomass conversion and value creation from waste

Mälardalen University (MDU) is the youngest university in Sweden. In line with our vision, to be a progressive and collaborative University where we shape a sustainable future together, we wish to make a difference.

Do you want to be involved and contribute to our development?

Together, we can create a sustainable future through knowledge and innovation. We believe that knowledge and new perspectives are best attained and reached together in collaboration with others – our colleagues, students, the private and public sectors, both nationally and internationally.

At the school of Business, Society and Engineering, our students study for, among other things, university and civil engineers, political scientists and economists. With us, the research focuses are industrial economics and organization and the energy of the future. Our work takes place in collaboration and in strategic agreements with companies, organizations and authorities in the region.

Employment: Temporary employment
Scope: Full time
Number of positions: 1
Closing date for application: 2024-06-03
Campus location: Västeras
School: School of Business, Society and Engineering, (EST)

Access to third-cycle courses and study programmes at a higher education education as well as basic eligibility requirements and assessment criteria, are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 7 §§ 34–41(SFS 1993:100). More information about third-cycle studies at MDU

A full-time employment as a doctoral student is attached to this third-cycle studies which corresponds to four years. 

This PhD student position is one of four positions within our FEC research initiative Farm4Future, which strives to create circular systems and improve the conditions for cultivation in urban environments. The aim is to contribute to advancements in wastewater treatment and resource recovery for sustainable water management and food production. We will work in parallel with different areas that all connect to both Farm4Future and several other nearby research projects. The PhD student will focus on conducting experimental research in the field of sustainable waste management, employing hydrothermal carbonisation (HTC) for producing high-humus hydrochar and fertilisers from selected waste materials. The PhD candidate will evaluate and improve HTC operating conditions towards producing high-quality fertilisers and soil enhancers for indoor farming through process optimisation. The candidate will also assess the environmental and technoeconomic feasibility in both developed and developing societies. This collaborative project involves industry partners and offers excellent opportunities for technology translation and real-world impact. We seek a highly motivated PhD candidate with a strong background in environmental engineering or related fields. Experience in analytical methods, water treatment technologies, and/or resource recovery is desirable. The PhD candidate will benefit from a stimulating research environment, close collaboration with experts, and potential teaching and supervision opportunities of master’s and bachelor’s degrees. The position duration is 4-5 years, with adjustments based on departmental duties. Anticipated research outputs include publication in scientific communication platforms, active participation in conferences, and knowledge exchange and engagement with various stakeholders.

• A degree at an advanced level.
• At least 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 are at an advanced level.
• Equivalent knowledge acquired in Sweden or abroad through other means.

Specific eligibility requirements include having one of the following:

• Completed a Master of Science in Engineering in a relevant technical field
• Completed a four-year natural science program with technical content equivalent to a Master of Science in Engineering
• Acquired knowledge of substantially the same scope through other means, either within or outside the country.  

We are looking for someone with excellent skills in English, both written and spoken.

Prior to employment, consideration must be given to the ability to assimilate third-cycle courses and study programmes at a higher education. In addition to this capability, particular emphasis will be placed on the following:

• MSc degree in environmental engineering, chemical engineering, or a related field.
• Experience in hydrothermal carbonisation, hydrothermal liquefaction, or similar thermochemical conversion processes.
• Experience in indoor farming applications.
• Demonstratable evidence by way of scientific publications or active participation at conferences or seminars for the purposes of presenting research findings will be given preference.
• A background in environmental science, engineering or agronomy is advantageous, especially where this supports the interdisciplinary nature of this position.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, effective communication ability, collaborative and multidisciplinary teamwork and experience in liaising with industrial partners is valuable.

Merits:

• Skills in Swedish, both spoken and written.

In an overall assessment of suitability, emphasis is also placed on personal abilities. All employees at MDU are expected to cooperate and treat colleagues and students with respect, take responsibility for the organisation and their own work duties and contribute to a positive work environment.

We are looking for someone with high motivation and strong initiative. You should be able to work independently and be thorough, structured, analytical, and solution-oriented. Additionally, you need to be clear and engaged in your communication, be an active listener, and receptive to receiving and giving feedback. You are focused on achieving goals and strive to deliver high quality, which you achieve through prioritization, planning, and action. You also need to be flexible and adaptable.                    

We value the qualities that an even distribution of age and gender, as well as ethnic and cultural diversity, can contribute to the organization. We are also seeking someone who can demonstrate good independence, initiative, and abilities in learning and project management.

Application is made online. Make your application by clicking the "Apply" button below.

The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete in accordance with the advertisement and will reach the University no later than closing date for application.

We look forward to receiving your application.

Union representatives:

Saco-S [email protected]
Susanne Meijer ST-OFR/S, tel: 021-10 14 89

We decline all contact with recruiters and salespersons of advertisements. We have made our strategic choices for this recruitment.

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