Postdoctoral Researcher in AI-Driven Protein Design for Plastic Degradation

Department of Molecular Sciences

We are looking for two candidates who wants to contribute to the development of next-generation biocatalysts for plastic degradation and recycling, with a particular focus on AI-driven protein design.

About the position

The position involves research on the development of novel enzymes for the degradation of synthetic polymers, with a particular focus on plastic materials. The project aims to design proteins capable of efficiently depolymerizing plastics into reusable monomers under mild and sustainable conditions.

The project has a strong focus on developing and applying machine learning and computational methods for protein design, in close integration with experimental enzymology and biocatalysis.

The tasks include:

• Development and application of AI and machine learning methods for protein design
• Design of enzymes using computational models
• Identification and optimization of plastic-degrading enzymes
• Experimental expression, purification, and characterization of proteins, or collaboration in these activities
• Protein engineering to improve activity, selectivity, and stability
• Development of biocatalytic processes for plastic depolymerization and valorization

The work also includes analysis of polymers, monomers, and reaction products using relevant chemical and biophysical methods.

The successful candidate is expected to independently drive research projects, analyze and summarize results, publish in scientific journals, and contribute to the supervision of students.

Your profile

PhD degree in bioinformatics, machine learning, computer science, biochemistry, chemical biology, biotechnology, organic chemistry, or a related field.

Documented research experience in at least one of the following areas:

• Machine learning or AI methods (preferably applied to biological systems)
• Protein design or protein engineering
• Enzymology or biocatalysis
• Polymer or materials chemistry related to degradation or recycling

Excellent communication skills in spoken and written English.

Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment.

Particular emphasis will be placed on experience working at the interface between computational methods and experimental studies.

The position is intended for a junior researcher, and we are primarily seeking candidates who earned their doctoral degree no more than three years ago. In exceptional cases, the degree may have been obtained earlier. Exceptional cases include leave of absence due to illness, parental leave, positions of trust within trade unions, service in the armed forces, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical service or service/assignments relevant to the subject area.

Meriting qualifications

• Experience in AI-based protein design or structure-based modeling
• Experience in plastic degradation or depolymerization
• Experience in bioinformatics, molecular modeling, or simulations
• Experience in experimental protein or enzyme characterization
• Track record of scientific publications and supervision

Personal qualities

We are looking for motivated, creative, and collaborative researchers with strong analytical skills. You should be structured, independent, and able to drive research projects forward in a dynamic and interdisciplinary environment.

About us

The Department of Molecular Sciences has approximately 100 employees and, together with other departments, forms a strong research environment at the BioCenter on the Ultuna campus in Uppsala.

The department conducts research and education in areas including organic chemistry, biochemistry, biotechnology, microbiology, and materials chemistry, with access to advanced infrastructure such as NMR, mass spectrometry, electron microscopy, and chromatographic techniques.

Research is conducted in close collaboration with national and international partners and aims to develop sustainable solutions for future materials and chemical processes.

Read more about our activities:
https://www.slu.se/institutioner/molekylara-vetenskaper/

Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/

Location:

Uppsala

Form of employment:

Temporary employment 24 months, with the possibility of extension.

Scope:

100%

Start date:

As agreed.

Application:

Please submit your application before deadline 18 May 2026. You can submit your application by clicking the button below.

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.