Department of Forest Ecology and Management
Would you like to help shape the future of sustainable materials? We are seeking an engaged postdoctoral researcher who wants to contribute to the development of next-generation bio-based adhesives that meet both sustainability goals and industry performance requirements. In this project, you will combine cutting-edge methods in polymer science and AI-driven modeling to develop predictive frameworks and high-performance adhesive systems for the furniture, construction, and packaging industries. You will work at the interface between fundamental research and practical application, and contribute to the transition toward a more sustainable materials economy. If you have a strong research background and are driven by innovation, this position offers an exciting opportunity to take the next step in your academic career!
The recruitment takes place within BioGlue-Centre – Competence Center for Bio-Based Adhesives, which is a Vinnova-funded competence center within sustainable industry and digital transformation. The center's vision is to significantly reduce dependence on fossil-based materials in the adhesive industry by developing groundbreaking knowledge about bio-based adhesives and establishing a world-leading research environment in Sweden.
The center is built on a network of leading researchers with expertise in polymer science, adhesive technology, technology, and sustainability at the Department of Forest Ecology and Management at SLU (https://www.slu.se/om-slu/organisation/institutioner/skoglig-bioekonomi-och-teknologi/), the Department of Fiber and Polymer Technology at KTH (https://www.kth.se/sv/fpt/fibre-and-polymer-technology-1.778696), and the Department of Forest and Wood Technology at Linnaeus University (https://www.lnu.se/en/meet-linnaeus-university/Organisation/faculty-of-technology/meet-the-faculty-of-technology/forestry-and-wood/). The center brings together 13 companies across the entire value chain in the furniture, packaging, and construction sectors, who share common research questions around adhesives and adhesion technology.
About the Job
The development of bio-based adhesives is currently limited by a lack of predictive understanding of how formulation chemistry affects material properties and performance. This project aims to address this challenge by establishing a data-driven framework for the rational development of high-performance bio-based adhesives. As a postdoctoral researcher, you will work on integrating experimental formulation, molecular-level characterization, and machine learning to develop predictive models that link chemical descriptors to adhesive properties. The work includes developing a structured library of formulations, systematically mapping key performance indicators, and implementing data-driven optimization strategies to identify high-performance systems. Machine learning methods will be used to identify relationships between structure and properties and to guide the development of new formulations. The project combines experimental and computational approaches and includes validation of selected formulations on industrially relevant substrates. You will collaborate closely with both academic and industrial partners and contribute to the development of a transferable and predictive toolkit for next-generation sustainable adhesives.
Your Background
We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with a doctoral degree obtained within the past three years in materials science, polymer science, chemistry, chemical engineering, or another relevant field. The ideal candidate has strong expertise in polymer formulation and structure-property relationships, particularly in modification and cross-linking of bio-based or functional polymers for adhesives or related applications. Experience with advanced material characterization techniques is required. A strong interest in data-driven research is essential. Experience with modeling methods, data analysis, or machine learning applied to materials or chemical systems is highly desirable.
You are expected to have very good English communication skills, both spoken and written, and a clear ambition to continue an academic career. The ability to work independently, take initiative, and collaborate effectively in an interdisciplinary and international research environment is essential.
In evaluating candidates, particular weight will be given to: (1) Scientific excellence in polymer and materials science. (2) Experience with, or documented potential to apply, machine learning and data-driven methods in materials development or formulation design. (3) Ability to contribute to and further develop ongoing research activities within the research group.
About Us
The Department of Forest Ecology and Management at SLU brings together expertise in engineering, natural science, and social science. The department offers a world-leading interdisciplinary environment for research and education in the circular bioeconomy, with activities on campuses in Umeå and Uppsala as well as nationally and internationally. Our operations span the entire value chain of the forest-based bioeconomy – from analyzing how resources can be used and managed to developing technology, materials, and industrial processes for sustainable bio-based products and systems. The department is responsible for education at bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels and collaborates closely with both industry and academia, nationally and internationally. Here you can be part of contributing to a more sustainable bio-based society.
More information about the department: https://www.slu.se/om-slu/organisation/institutioner/skoglig-bioekonomi-och-teknologi/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21086656031&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIwMj3yOmalQMVdluRBR3n7yxAEAAYASAAEgKD_fD_BwE
Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at SLU at https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/
Placement:
Uppsala
Employment Type:
Fixed-term employment for 24 months, with possibility for extension.
Scope:
100%
Start Date:
By agreement but no later than January 1, 2027.
Application:
You are welcome to submit your application via the application button below by August 16, 2026.
Trade Union Contact Persons:
https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/Department of Forest Ecology and Management
Would you like to help shape the future of sustainable materials? We are seeking an engaged postdoctoral researcher who wants to contribute to the development of next-generation bio-based adhesives that meet both sustainability goals and industry performance requirements. In this project, you will combine cutting-edge methods in polymer science and AI-driven modeling to develop predictive frameworks and high-performance adhesive systems for the furniture, construction, and packaging industries. You will work at the interface between fundamental…