PhD-student in Technology – Biomethanation of Syngas - Climate and Techno-Economic Assessment

Department of Energy and Technology

Third-cycle subject area

Technology

Description of the doctoral project

Biomethane is conventionally produced by anaerobic digestion of biodegradable biomass and plays an important role in reducing dependency on imported fossil fuels and mitigate climate change. To increase biomethane production for the expanding demand in transportation and industry, there is a need to consider feedstocks that resist biological conversion (e.g. forest residues). A promising way is biomethanation of syngas from thermal gasification of lignocellulosic biomass. Integration of syngas biomethanation with conventional anaerobic digestion entails several advantages e.g. increased gas flow for more cost-efficient liquefaction of biomethane, and heat management. Moreover, supply of exogeneous green hydrogen gas from electrolysis of water through carbon capture and utilisation (CCU) will further increase methane production and will facilitate upgrading of the produced gas.

About the position

We are seeking a motivated doctoral student to work on biomethane system scenario design and assessment. The research studies include modelling and simulation from feedstock supply and thermal gasification to biomethane. System scenarios will involve integration of syngas biomethanation with conventional anaerobic digestion plants and supply of exogenous hydrogen gas. The objective is to assess energy balance, climate impact and techno-economic performance. The candidate is expected to read and critically evaluate scientific literature in English and publish and present results in scientific journals and at conferences. The candidate will also participate in doctoral courses and contribute to departmental activities.

The holder of this position will be a part of a national transdisciplinary center of excellence called Biogas Solutions Research Center (BSRC). Here, co-production of new and relevant knowledge is generated through collaboration between different scientific disciplines as well as between researchers and practitioners from industry and public organizations. The BSRC includes researchers and support from two universities, Linköping University and Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, as well as about 50 private and public organizations involving all parts of the biogas system. It also has support from the Swedish Energy Agency.

Requirements

To meet the general entry requirements you must have been awarded a second-cycle (Master’s) qualification, satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second-cycle, or acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad (Higher Education Ordinance 1993:100, Chapter 7, Section 39).

Specific eligibility for admission to doctoral studies in Technology is granted to applicants who have knowledge equivalent to at least 90 credits in courses relevant to the field of technology. These studies must include an independent degree project/thesis, and at least 30 credits must be at second cycle (Master’s) level. In other cases, specific eligibility will be assessed individually regarding the research project.

You must also meet the equivalent English language requirements as those necessary for the Swedish upper-secondary qualification Engelska B/6.

Your profile

Requirements

• Degree at second-cycle level (Master of Science) in Energy Systems Engineering, Energy technology or related field.
• Documented knowledge and experience in data programming and modelling.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken.

Meritorious qualifications

• Knowledge of biomass conversion technologies.
• Experience in programming with Python.
• Experience in Life Cycle Assessment.
• Experience in techno-economic analysis.
• Experience in scientific writing and communication.
• Knowledge of the Swedish energy system.
• Ability to communicate in Swedish.

Great emphasis will be placed on personal qualities such as collaboration skills, analytical and problem-solving abilities, motivation and the capacity for independent work.

About us

The Department of Energy and Technology at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), within the Centre for Environment and Development Studies (MVM), offers a stimulating and interdisciplinary research environment with both national and international focus. Our bioenergy research focus on studies of technical solutions and systems related to how resources can be used efficiently and sustainably for production of fuels, electricity and heat. The department and involved researchers have extensive experience in doctoral education and supervision.

More information about the department: Department of Energy and Technology, https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/organisation/departments/energy-technology  

Read more about staff benefits and life as an SLU employee on https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/ 

Read more about third-cycle courses and study programmes on www.slu.se/utbildning/program-kurser/forskarutbildning/.

Form of employment / Funding

Employment as a doctoral student (4-year programme).

Doctoral student’s salaries are set following the local collective agreement. Salary progression is fixed.

Location:

Uppsala

Scope:

100%

Start date:

Upon agreement, but not later than December 2026.

Application and selection:

Please submit your application using the link below. The deadline is 10 September 2026.

Read more about the attachments that your application should include at https://www.slu.se/en/study/programmes-courses/doctoral-education/how-can-i-become-a-doctoral-student/application/

Selection among eligible applicants is based on the documents attached to the application, and is carried out with regard to the applicant’s ability to complete the programme within the allotted time.

Academic union representatives:

https://internt.slu.se/en/my-employment/employee-associations/kontaktpersoner-vid-rekrytering/

 

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has a key role in the development for sustainable life, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interaction between humans, animals and ecosystems and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Our main campuses are located in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala, however, the university also operates at research stations, experimental forests and teaching sites throughout Sweden. SLU has around 4,000 employees, 6,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 4,5 billion. We are investing in attractive environments on all of our campuses. We strive to provide a work environment characterised by inclusivity and gender equality, where different experiences generate conversations between people and pave the way for science, creativity and development. Therefore, we welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.