Department Overview

The Department of Environmental Science is one of the biggest departments at the Faculty of Science. The department consists of four units with more than 170 researchers, teachers, doctoral students and technical/administrative staff from over 30 countries.

Research and teaching focuses on chemical contaminants, atmospheric science, biogeochemistry and (eco)toxicology.

As an employee at the Department of Environmental Science you will be part of a dynamic environment with research in leading research areas and with a strong international profile.

More information about us, please visit: the Department of Environmental Science.

Research Unit

At the Unit for Contaminant Chemistry we study all aspects of the occurrence of pollutants in the environment.

Areas of particular focus include:

• Discovery of new contaminants
• Understanding chemical, physical and biological pathways of contaminants
• Development of novel tools and techniques

We strive to synthesize scientific understanding about:

• Sources
• Transport
• Transformation
• Bioaccumulation
• Pharmacokinetics of environmental contaminants

These are integrated into mathematical models that inspire new scientific hypotheses and support environmental decision-making.

Project Description

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widely used in healthcare due to their unique properties. However, their extreme persistence and potential health and environmental impacts have created an urgent need to understand where PFAS are used, why they are used, and whether safer alternatives can meet essential performance requirements.

As part of the PFAROS Innovative Health Initiative (IHI) consortium, this project will:

• Map PFAS uses in the healthcare sector using:Determine functional requirements driving PFAS selection
  • Literature review
  • AI-assisted data mining
  • Search methods
  • Stakeholder engagement
• Identify alternatives using function-based substitution principles and PFAROS data resources
• Conduct alternatives assessments integrating:Develop recommendations for PFAS substitution in healthcare
  • Hazard
  • Exposure
  • Technical performance
  • Full life-cycle impacts
• Identify near-term replacements and research gaps

The student will work closely with PFAROS partners across academia and industry and gain experience in alternatives assessment and regulatory-relevant research supporting Europe’s transition toward safer healthcare materials.

Qualification Requirements

To be admitted to postgraduate education, applicants must meet general and specific entry requirements.

General entry requirements:

• Second-cycle degree, OR
• At least 240 higher education credits, including 60 credits at second cycle, OR
• Equivalent knowledge acquired in Sweden or elsewhere

Specific entry requirements:

• At least 45 second-cycle credits in natural sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Physics, or Meteorology), including a 30-credit thesis
• At least 30 credits in other natural science subjects outside the major

Selection Criteria

Selection is based on ability to benefit from training, assessed by:

• Documented knowledge in relevant research field
• Analytical and creative thinking
• Initiative
• Independence
• Ability to collaborate
• Quality and ambition of previous project work
• English proficiency (written and spoken)

Employment Information

• Fixed-term doctoral employment under Swedish Higher Education Ordinance
• Maximum duration: 4 years full-time doctoral education
• May include up to 20% teaching, research, or administration
• Initial employment: 1 year, then renewal for up to 2 years at a time
• Equal opportunities workplace