Arbetsbeskrivning

This PhD student position offers a unique opportunity to explore the biological processes underpinning nitrogen removal in wastewater treatment plants. If you are driven by curiosity, motivated, and eager to contribute to advancements in microbial ecology and wastewater management, we encourage you to apply. About the project As a PhD student, you will immerse yourself in the fascinating world of microbial communities and their role in nitrogen removal processes. In wastewater treatment, nitrogen removal is typically accomplished by the biological processes nitrification, denitrification, and anammox. You will focus on the interplay between bacteriophages and the bacteria crucial for these processes. The project will both involve sampling at full-scale treatment plants and operatation of laboratory-scale systems. Additionally, you will employ various molecular biology techniques, such as metagenomics, to analyze the microbial communities. Although you will focus on the research project and your own development as a researcher, the position is also an opportunity to participate in teaching and interact with students at both the undergraduate and master level. Such experiences will complement your growth as a researcher. Research environment Your work will be based at the Division of Water Environment Technology (WET), part of the Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering at Chalmers University of Technology. As a member of the Wastewater Management and Environmental Biotechnology research group, you will collaborate closely with senior researchers, other PhD students, and postdocs. Our research spans from microbial ecology theory to process engineering. We also develop new biotechnological processes and investigate the fundamental science behind these processes. Examples of research areas where we have had projects are anammox, fermentation, microbial electrochemistry, aerobic granular sludge, moving bed biofilm processes, and recirculating aquaculture systems. Many of our projects are conducted in partnership with municipalities, R&D companies, and consultants, bridging theoretical research and practical applications. Major responsibilities In the role as a PhD student, you will: • Analyse microbial communities responsible for nitrogen removal in full-scale wastewater treatment plants. • Design laboratory-scale experiments for more detailed studies. • Use advanced molecular biology techniques, including metagenomics, to examine the microbial communities. • Present findings in academic conferences and scientific publications. The position is full-time for 4 years, with the possibility of extending to 5 years through teaching responsibilities within the department. Read more about doctoral studies at Chalmers here. Qualifications You hold an MSc degree in a relevant field such as environmental engineering or biotechnology and have strong communication skills in English. Experience in designing, operating, or analysing bioreactors, as well as using molecular biology techniques or bioinformatics, is meriting. You are highly motivated to pursue PhD studies and enjoy problem-solving. You are capable of working independently but also enjoy collaborating with others. The PhD student position is expected to start on June 1st, 2025. Contract terms Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years. We offer Chalmers offers 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. Application procedure The application should be written in English. The application should be sent electronically and 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: (Please name the document: CV, Family name) • CV • Other, for example previous employments or leadership qualifications and positions of trust. • Two references that we can contact. Personal letter: (Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name) 1-3 pages where you: • Introduce yourself • Describe your previous experience of relevance for the position (e.g. education, thesis work and, if applicable, any other research activities) • Describe your future goals and future research focus Other documents: • Copies of bachelor and/or master’s thesis. • Attested copies and transcripts of completed education, grades and other certificates, e.g. TOEFL test results. 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: 2025-01-18 For questions, please contact: Oskar Modin, [email protected] +46 31-7722138 *** 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.