PhD fellowship in Wood Science
The project
The built environment has an enormous material and energy footprint. Boosting the understanding and use of sustainable building materials and energy renovation of existing buildings is a central Danish and European priority to bring down carbon emissions. However, general and sensible energy renovation should limit the use of energy-intensive materials based on nonrenewable resources, e.g. mineral wool and plasterboards, to avoid increasing carbon emissions from material production and depletion of non-renewable resources. Instead, grass composites are expected to be used across all building elements, from floor, ceiling, walls, spatial partitions, window casings, doors, panels, and insulation to acoustic modules.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for candidates within the field(s) of materials science, biotechnology, plant sciences, organic chemistry, wood and science technology, and chemical engineering. Previous experience with relevant biomolecules (e.g. lignin, starch, cellulose), biobased adhesives, biobased materials e.g. for construction, and biological materials science in general is seen as an advantage. Applicants should have laboratory experience, data handling skills, a collaborative approach, and be scientifically curious.
Our group and research - and what do we offer?
The research group, Bioresource Chemistry and Technology, contributes to both fundamental and applied aspects of the sustainable utilization of biomass for materials, chemicals, and bioenergy by the creation of knowledge and development of technologies within this subject area. This includes a fundamental understanding of the chemistry and physical properties of the cell walls in plants, and how this intricate biocomposite interacts with external factors (e.g. biological agents, chemicals, catalysts, and water) during processing or use. It also includes studies of molecular level interactions, between plant cell wall polymers and fungi, enzymes, water, and chemical reagents, as well as attention to sustainability aspects, as technologies are transferred from laboratory scale to industrial scale biomass utilization.
Qualifications needed
To be eligible for the PhD programme, you must have completed a degree programme, equivalent to a Danish master’s degree (180 ECTS/3 FTE BSc + 120 ECTS/2 FTE MSc) related to the subject area of the project, e.g. materials science, biotechnology, chemical engineering. For information of eligibility of completed programmes, see General assessments for specific countries and Assessment database.
Application and Assessment Procedure
Your application including all attachments must be in English and submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.
- Motivated letter of application (max. one page)
- Your motivation for applying for the specific PhD project
- Curriculum vitae including information about your education, experience, language skills and other skills relevant for the position
- Original diplomas for Bachelor or Master and transcript of records in the original language, including an authorized English translation if issued in another language than English or Danish. If not completed, a certified/signed copy of a recent transcript of records or a written statement from the institution or supervisor is accepted.
- Publishation list (if possible)
- Reference letters (if available)
Application deadline:
The deadline for applications is July 15, 2026, 23:59 GMT +2.
The further process
After deadline, a number of applicants will be selected for academic assessment by an unbiased expert assessor. You are notified, whether you will be passed for assessment.
Contact Information
For specific information about the PhD fellowship, please contact the principal supervisor. Questions can be directed to the principal supervisor at eet@ign.ku.dk or by calling +45 35 33 44 33.