Postdoctoral Fellow in Geochemistry

Stockholm University

Department: Environmental Science, Faculty of Science

Location: Stockholm, Sweden

Employment Type: Full-time, Temporary Position

Contract Duration: Minimum 2 years, maximum 3 years (possibility of extension under special circumstances)

Start Date: 1 December 2025 or as per agreement

Reference Number: SU FV-3285-25

Application Deadline: 31 December 2025

About the Department

The Department of Environmental Science is one of the largest departments at the Faculty of Science, comprising four units with more than 170 researchers, teachers, doctoral students, and technical/administrative staff from over 30 countries. Research and teaching focus on chemical contaminants, atmospheric science, biogeochemistry, and (eco)toxicology. Employees work in a dynamic, internationally recognized environment with leading research areas.

More information about the department can be found on the Department of Environmental Science website.

Project Description

The Canadian Beaufort Sea shelf provides an ideal region to study the effects of sea-level rise and freshwater input on Holocene primary productivity, sea-ice cover, and ocean acidification. Similarly, shallow lakes in the Mackenzie region (Northwest Territories, Canada) are experiencing climatic disturbances, such as rising winter air temperatures, altered timing of spring freshets, and decreased precipitation. Research questions may also include shifting methane dynamics in a changing Arctic.

Main Responsibilities

• Extracting and analyzing biomarkers from Canadian Arctic samples.
• Working with samples from previous expeditions (Warm COCOA, FLO CHAR, PeCaBeau) and potentially joining new expeditions to target specific samples.
• Conducting intensive laboratory work using gas-chromatographic and stable isotope methods (GC, GC-IRMS, GC-MS).
• Developing novel biomarker methods, such as:
  • Bacteriohopanpolyol (BHP) analysis
  • Levoglucosan concentration in marine and lake sediments
  • Hydrogen isotope ratios of sterols and alkenones
  • Carbon isotope ratios of GDGT
  • Compound-specific radiocarbon analysis
• Research spanning modern environmental questions to paleoclimate reconstructions.

Qualification Requirements

• PhD in organic geochemistry, environmental sciences, geoscience, chemistry, or a related discipline
• Degree must be completed no later than the time of the employment decision
• Preference for candidates whose degree was completed within the last three years, though special circumstances (e.g., parental leave, sick leave, clinical attachment) may be considered

Assessment Criteria

• Flexibility and motivation to grow within a new research group
• Interest in paleoclimatology and aquatic geochemistry
• Experience with organic compound analysis is preferred
• Ability to work in an interdisciplinary international team
• Good communication skills, including fluency in English
• Selection based on statement of scientific interest, publications, references, and interview

Employment Conditions

• Full-time employment for 2–3 years
• Start date 1 December 2025 or as per agreement
• Work in a dynamic international environment
• Stockholm University is located in the National City Park with excellent transport connections
• Workplace free from discrimination and promotes equal opportunities

Contact

For further information about the position:
Julie Lattaud – julie.lattaud@aces.su.se

Application

• Apply through Stockholm University's recruitment system
• Attach a personal letter, CV, and requested supporting documents
• Ensure the application is complete before the deadline

Instructions for applicants: How to apply for a position