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PhD Student in anaerobic digestion of lignocellulosic biomass and ligning valorization – DTU Chemical Engineering

Technical University of Denmark (DTU)

Published on August 29, 2026

LocationDenmark DeadlineSeptember 8, 2026 · CLOSED Job typeFull-time International applicantsYes

About the opportunity

The Bioconversions group at DTU Chemical Engineering is seeking a PhD student to work on monitoring the anaerobic digestion process of lignocellulosic biomass, with a focus on microbial abundance and interactions under various operational conditions. The role involves lignin valorization for process enhancement or material production. This cross-disciplinary research includes reactor operation, biological and chemical processes, high-throughput microbial culture testing, and bioinformatics. The successful candidate will join an international, multidisciplinary team dedicated to developing sustainable technologies for bioenergy and added-value products, collaborating with academic and industrial partners.

Salary and benefits

  • 3-year employment contract
  • Salary based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations
  • Opportunity to work in an international, innovative, and collaborative research environment
  • Access to world-class research facilities and expertise at a leading technical university

Who can apply?

  • Hold a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS) or equivalent in Biotechnology, Life Sciences, or a relevant field
  • Proven ability in areas such as bioinformatics, fermentations, reactor operation, or anaerobic digestion metabolites analysis (GC)
  • Experience in developing and executing analytical protocols and wet lab experiments investigating microbial metabolism
  • Strong writing and communication skills in English
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team

Required documents

  • Cover letter (motivating the application)
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official grading scale description
  • List of publications (if relevant)

When to apply

  • Application deadline: 2026-09-08 (23:59 Danish time)

How to apply

  • Prepare all required materials in English as a single PDF file
  • Access the official job portal via the 'Apply Now' link
  • Fill out the online application form
  • Upload the single PDF file containing all required documents

Additional information

  • The position starts on January 1, 2027
  • Candidates may apply before obtaining their master's degree but must have received it before the start date
  • The position is subject to academic approval and enrollment in a DTU PhD program
  • Open-source background checks may be conducted due to research in critical technology
  • Applicants from abroad can access resources on moving to Denmark via the DTU website

Our Take on This Opportunity

This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.

You may be a strong fit if…

  • Biotechnology or Life Sciences graduates with experience in bioinformatics, fermentation, or anaerobic digestion.
  • Researchers who enjoy a mix of wet lab experiments, reactor operation, and data analysis.
  • Individuals who are motivated by sustainable technology and the circular economy.

What should you think carefully about?

  • The position is based on-site in Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark, requiring relocation for international applicants.
  • The research involves critical technology, which may lead to open-source background checks.
  • Candidates must be prepared to manage both independent research and collaborative team efforts.

How could this fit your current goals and plans?

This PhD position is perfect for those aiming to become experts in bioenergy and sustainable resource valorization. It provides access to world-class facilities and an innovative team, setting you up for a high-impact career in the green energy sector or academic research focused on microbial metabolism and industrial biotechnology.

Our take

A strong fit for life science researchers passionate about sustainable bioenergy; those who prefer purely theoretical work or are not interested in wet lab environments may find this role less suitable.

Ready to apply?

Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.

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