Associate Researcher Job in Marine Biotechnology at the University of Gothenburg, Sweden
The University of Gothenburg is inviting applications for an exciting Associate Researcher position in Marine Biotechnology. This opportunity is part of the international SEAlgaePower project, which aims to develop innovative microalgae-based technologies to clean nutrient-rich industrial waters while producing sustainable biomass for high-value ingredients. For candidates with expertise in biotechnology, microbiology, marine biology, or environmental science, this role offers a unique chance to contribute to the rapidly growing field of blue biotechnology.
This role offers a compelling combination of: Applied research in sustainable marine biotechnology Collaboration with leading European institutions Direct contribution to circular bioeconomy solutions Experience with microalgae cultivation and industrial applications A strong international research network For early-career scientists interested in algal biotechnology, aquaculture sustainability, and blue economy innovation, this is an excellent opportunity to gain high-impact research experience.
The Associate Researcher position in Marine Biotechnology at the University of Gothenburg offers a valuable opportunity to work on innovative solutions at the intersection of sustainability, aquaculture, and biotechnology. With international collaborators, state-of-the-art facilities, and research with direct environmental impact, this role is an excellent stepping stone for scientists pursuing careers in marine and environmental biotechnology.
Reference Number: PAR 2026/392
Application Deadline: May 18, 2026
Contract Duration: 11 months
Employment Type: Full-time (100%)
Start Date: August 1, 2026, or by agreement
Location: Gothenburg, Sweden
About the University of Gothenburg
The University of Gothenburg is one of Sweden’s leading research universities, with approximately 58,000 students and 6,800 employees. Known for its strong international outlook and interdisciplinary research environment, the university addresses major global challenges across science, health, sustainability, and society.
As a Swedish public employer, the university offers generous benefits, including occupational pension, additional vacation days, and flexible working arrangements.
Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences
The Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences (BioEnv) conducts research across terrestrial and marine ecosystems, from alpine habitats and forests to streams and coastal environments.
The department is based at:
- Natrium, Medicinareberget, Gothenburg
- Kristineberg Center, Fiskebäckskil
This position is located at Natrium, a modern research facility designed to support cutting-edge biological and environmental science.
About the SEAlgaePower Project
The position is part of the SEAlgaePower, an international initiative funded under the Sustainable Blue Economy Partnership.
The project’s goal is to use marine microalgae to:
- Remove nutrients from side-stream waters generated by land-based aquaculture and seafood processing
- Produce biomass for sustainable ingredients
- Support circular and environmentally responsible industrial processes
The consortium includes 14 partners from universities, research institutes, and industry and is coordinated by the University of Gothenburg.
Learn more at SEAlgaePower Official Website
Research Focus and Responsibilities
The successful candidate will identify marine microalgae strains that deliver:
- High biomass productivity
- Efficient nutrient removal
- Improved water quality
Key Responsibilities
- Cultivate marine microalgae in laboratory multicultivator systems
- Test growth in side-stream waters from the seafood processing industry
- Monitor growth using absorbance and chlorophyll fluorescence
- Harvest biomass and quantify yield
- Analyze physiological responses and biomass composition
- Participate in consortium meetings and scientific conferences
- Contribute to outreach and dissemination activities
Collaboration and Research Network
This work package is led by BioEnv in collaboration with:
- Chalmers University of Technology
- University of Palermo
The position offers excellent exposure to international academic and industrial partners working at the forefront of sustainable marine biotechnology.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must hold at least a master’s degree (advanced level) in a relevant discipline, such as:
- Biotechnology
- Microbiology
- Biology
- Biochemistry
- Environmental Science
- Related life science fields
Excellent written and spoken English is essential.
Preferred Qualifications
Candidates with the following qualifications will be particularly competitive:
- PhD in a relevant discipline
- Peer-reviewed publications in algal biotechnology
- Experience cultivating marine microalgae
- Expertise in physiological measurements
- Experience with biochemical analysis of biomass
Personal Qualities
The ideal candidate will be:
- Highly organized
- Solution-oriented
- Comfortable working independently
- Skilled in experimental design
- Collaborative and communicative
- Adaptable when working with complex biological systems
Employment Conditions
Contract Details
- Position Title: Associate Researcher in Marine Biotechnology
- Duration: 11 months
- Employment Type: Fixed-term
- Scope: 100%
- Start Date: August 1, 2026, or by agreement
- Location: Gothenburg, Sweden
- Salary: Individually negotiated
Benefits
As a public-sector employee in Sweden, you may receive:
- Generous vacation allowance
- Occupational pension
- Flexible work arrangements
- Strong work-life balance
Required Application Documents
Your application should preferably be written in English and include:
- Short cover letter describing your fit for the position
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Degree certificate
- Publication list (if applicable)
The highest-ranked candidates will be invited to interview, which may be conducted in English and held online.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through APPLY NOW – Reference number PAR 2026/392 – Application Deadline: May 18, 2026
Contact Information
Scientific Contact: Cornelia Spetea Wiklund
Email: cornelia.spetea.wiklund@bioenv.gu.se
Department Contact: Åsa Arrhenius
Email: asa.arrhenius@bioenv.gu.se
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this position fully funded?
Yes. This is a paid, full-time research appointment funded through the SEAlgaePower project.
Do I need a PhD to apply?
No. A master’s degree is the minimum requirement. However, applicants with a PhD and relevant publications will be particularly competitive.
What is the duration of the contract?
The position is for 11 months at full-time employment.
Is experience with microalgae required?
Hands-on experience in marine microalgae cultivation is highly desirable and will strengthen your application.
Can international applicants apply?
Yes. Candidates from all countries are welcome.
Is Swedish language proficiency required?
No. Excellent English communication skills are sufficient.
What will I be working on?
You will cultivate marine microalgae in industrial side-stream waters to optimize nutrient removal and biomass production.
When does the position begin?
The anticipated start date is August 1, 2026, or as agreed with the department.
Where is the role based?
The position is located at the Natrium building in Gothenburg, Sweden.
When is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by May 18, 2026.
Discover more from Agristok
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.