We are inviting applications for a two-year postdoctoral position focusing on the development of multifunctional structural materials from agricultural side streams, such as straw and husks. The work targets two application areas: porous green cements and bio-based carbon fibres intended for use in structural batteries.

The position is shared between three departments at Chalmers:

• Chemistry and Chemical Engineering (K)




• Architecture and Civil Engineering (ACE)




• Industrial and Materials Science (IMS)

The postdoctoral researcher will be formally hosted at the Division of Applied Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering.

Project overview

This highly interdisciplinary project aims to valorise agricultural residues by extracting their key components—such as cellulose, lignin, and silica—and optimising these for specific applications. Initial efforts will focus on developing suitable extraction methods. Later stages will include tailoring and characterising the materials in relation to their performance in their respective end uses.

Main responsibilities

You will contribute to experimental work and method development across all stages of the project. The work will involve regular interaction with researchers from different disciplines and departments.

Responsibilities include:

• Planning and conducting laboratory work related to extraction, processing, and characterisation




• Publishing research results in peer-reviewed international journals




• Presenting findings at national and international conferences




• Participating in the supervision of PhD students and collaboration with MSc and BSc students




• Contributing to regular discussions within the research teams and departments involved

Your profile

Your most important qualification is your desire to devotedly work with research and to perform in an interdisciplinary environment.

Required qualifications:

• A doctoral degree in chemistry, physics, materials science, or a closely related field, awarded no more than three years prior to the application deadline*. 




• Strong communication skills in English, both written and spoken

 * Exceptions from the 3-year limit can be made for longer periods resulting from parental leave, sick leave or military service.

Meritorious qualifications:

• Background in inorganic chemistry




• Experience with spectroscopic and microscopic characterisation techniques




• Interest or experience in interdisciplinary collaboration

What we offer

Chalmers provides a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Contract terms
This postdoc position is a full-time temporary employment for two years.

Application procedure
Please submit your application in English as PDF files according to the instructions below. Each file should not exceed 40 MB. Note: The system does not support Zip files.

1. CV
Name the document as: CV, [Your surname]. Include the following:

• A comprehensive CV, including a complete list of publications.




• Details of previous teaching and pedagogical experience.

2. Personal letter
Name the document as: Personal letter, [Your surname]. Limit the letter to 1–3 pages and include:

• 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. 

Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered.

Application deadline:  3 August, 2025

For questions, please contact:

Associate Prof Diana Bernin
diana.bernin@chalmers.se
+46-(0)31 772 1298

Associate Prof Helen Jansson
helen.jansson@chalmers.se
+46-0(31) 772 3297

Assistant Prof Johanna Xu
johanna.xu@chalmers.se
+46-(0)31 772 1073

 
*** 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.