PhD student in Environmental assessment of bio-based platform chemicals

at  Chalmers

The chemical industry remains largely dependent on fossil fuels, contributing to significant climate impacts. While bio-based alternatives like lignocellulosic feedstocks offer a more sustainable solution, the range of platform chemicals derived from them is still limited. As part of this project, you will play a key role in evaluating the environmental performance of bio-based chemicals using life cycle assessment (LCA). This involves close collaboration with experts in academia and industry, offering you valuable experience in a growing field.

QUALIFICATIONS

Must haves:

• MSc (corresponding to at least 240 higher education credits) in an engineering discipline such as Industrial Ecology, Environmental Engineering, or Chemical Engineering.
• Completion of a Master-level course specializing in life cycle assessment.
• Excellent skills in quantitative modelling and analysis.
• High proficiency in spoken and written English.
• Ability to collaborate effectively, adopt new perspectives, and work in a structured, reflexive manner.

Meritourious:

• Proficiency in spoken and written Swedish (Swedish courses available through Chalmers).
• Knowledge of biochemical process engineering.
• Programming skills, particularly in Python.
• Interest in or experience with multi- and transdisciplinary research.

• Conduct life cycle assessment (LCA) to guide the design and development of bio-based platform chemicals.
• Evaluate design choices made by partners in the BIONEER project, accounting for uncertainties in early-stage development.
• Contribute to LCA methodology development within the Safe and Sustainable by Design framework.
• Collaborate with researchers and industry professionals from various disciplines.
• Take courses to support your research, including one focused on sustainability or climate change.
• Participate in teaching and other responsibilities within the division.
  Read more about doctoral studies at Chalmers here.