Join our team at the Division of Industrial Biotechnology, Department of Life Sciences, and contribute to impactful research at the interface of microbiology, biotechnology, and honeybee health.
About us
The Department of Life Sciences conducts research, innovation, and education to enable a biobased society and improve human health. We explore how biological systems, and innovative technologies can be used to convert biomass into valuable products. We use advanced computational technologies to discover how biomolecules and organisms function and interact. We pioneer new methods for prediction, prevention, diagnostics and treatment of diseases.
The Division of Industrial Biotechnology (IndBio) offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and highly international research environment with extensive state-of-the-art laboratory facilities. Regular group meetings, seminars, and social activities foster a collaborative culture and provide strong academic and social support throughout the doctoral studies.
The Doctoral student will join the research group of Associate Professor Cecilia Geijer (Geijer Group), which explores yeast biodiversity to discover and characterize novel yeast species and develop them for applications in biotechnology, food systems, and sustainable bio-based technologies. The project is embedded in an international network and will be conducted in close collaboration with researchers at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), the University of Gothenburg, and Imperial College London, providing opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and scientific exchange.
About the research project
Honeybees are vital pollinators that support biodiversity and global food production, yet their populations are increasingly threatened by disease. This project investigates whether naturally occurring yeasts found in honey and the hive environment can protect bees by suppressing pathogens or promoting health through probiotic effects.
Using a unique collection of more than 2,500 yeast isolates from Swedish honey, the research aims to identify beneficial yeasts and understand how they interact with bees and bee pathogens. The long-term goal is to develop sustainable strategies that improve pollinator health and strengthen resilient food systems.
The project provides excellent opportunities to develop both fundamental and applied research skills and contribute to innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture and food production.
Who we are looking for
The following requirements are mandatory:
- To qualify as a Doctoral student, you must have a Master's degree (masterexamen) of 120 credits or a Master’s degree (magisterexamen) of 60 credits* in biotechnology, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or similar.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
- Proven work experience in a biotechnology laboratory setting
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills, with the ability to work independently, collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams, and contribute to a positive research environment.
*for students with an education earned outside of Sweden, a 4-year Bachelor’s degree is accepted.
The following experience will strengthen your application:
- University courses or equivalent in eukaryotic microbiology, analytical chemistry, bioinformatics, and ecology.
- Know-how of HPLC/GC-MS or other analytical techniques, genome editing techniques, and omics technologies.
- Previous coursework or research experience in pollinator biology, insect–microbe interactions, apiculture, or related fields is also considered meritorious.
What you will do
- Conduct independent research within the project area, including experimental design, data generation, analysis, and interpretation
- Develop your own scientific concepts and communicate the results of your research verbally and in writing
- Take courses at an advanced level within the Graduate school of Bioscience
- The position generally also includes teaching on Chalmers' undergraduate level or performing other duties corresponding to 10-20 percent of working hours
- Collaborate with peers at both internally and externally
Contract terms
- The Doctoral student positions are fully funded from start.
- The position is a fixed-term appointment of four years, with the possibility to teach up to 20%, which extends the position up to five years.
- A starting salary of 35,725 SEK per month (valid from May 1, 2026).
- Doctoral studies require physical presence throughout the entire study period. A valid residence permit must be presented by the study start date; otherwise the admission may be withdrawn.
What we offer
- As a Doctoral student at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.
- A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.
- Read more about Sweden’s generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare etc at Move To Gothenburg.
Chalmers is dedicated to improving gender balance and actively works with equality projects, such as the GENIE Initiative for gender equality and excellence. We celebrate diversity and consider equality and inclusion as fundamental aspects of all our activities.
If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in.
Find more general information about doctoral studies at Chalmers here.
Application procedure
The application should be written in English and attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.
CV
Personal letter
- A brief introduction about yourself.
- A brief motivation as to why you are interested in this position.
Bachelor’s and, if available, master’s thesis together with the transcripts.
Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.
A background check may be conducted as part of the application process.
Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. Contact details to references will be requested after the interview.
We welcome your application no later than 31st of August, 2026
For questions, please contact:
Cecilia Geijer (Associate Professor), [email protected]
We look forward to your application!
*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***
Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has 3100 employees and 10,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture. With scientific excellence as a basis, Chalmers promotes knowledge and technical solutions for a sustainable world. Through global commitment and entrepreneurship, we foster an innovative spirit, in close collaboration with wider society.
Chalmers was founded in 1829 and has the same motto today as it did then: Avancez – forward.
