PhD student in Aquatic Ecology

Linnaeus University seeks PhD student in Aquatic Ecology, with specialization in Marine Ecology, ref 2010/2971 Linnaeus University is the result of a merger between Kalmar University and Växjö University.Together we are creating a new, exciting university with 31 000 students and 2 000 employees.Linnaeus University is a modern, international university in the Småland region of Sweden, where people can grow to reach their potential.For more information see: Lnu.se The School of Natural Sciences is part of the Faculty of Science and Engineering.The research activities within this multidisciplinary school include the areas of Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences, Organic Chemistry, Marine Ecology and Microbiology.The marine ecology group seeks a PhD student for studies within the context of using marine microalgae as bioenergy source and its potential applications in temperate climate zones.Project title: Microalgae: future source of bioenergy from the sea?The research project: The use of fossil fuels is now accepted as unsustainable due to depleting supply and the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the environment.The Ph.D.study will focus on optimization of microalgal growth and production together with analyses and manipulation of intracellular chemical composition.Laboratory studies will be complemented by outdoor large-scale experiments in both cold and warm temperate climate zones.Experiments will include a diverse array of culturing techniques of different algae in a wide range of environmental conditions.The approach combines microbiological, biochemical and chemical techniques to efficiently meet the objectives.The Ph.D.study will involve the collaboration with business enterprise and regional companies and authorities. Applicants should have a Masters Degree or equivalent (240hp/240ECTS) in a subject area of relevance for the present project.Documented training and experience of Algal Ecology, Microbiology, Biochemistry or a related area is a prerequisite.Written and oral communication skills in English are also essential.Experience with large-scale culture of algae and/or business enterprise will be an advantage.Basic requirements for post-graduate studies are laid out in the Swedish Higher Education Ordinance (Högskoleförordningen), Chapter 7.The PhD studies are limited to 4 years (100%) but may be extended by up to 5 years through teaching at the undergraduate level.The starting point for the PhD education is negotiable. Your application should arrive no later than 30th of December, 2010.Mark your application with reference number 2010/2971.The application (in English) should contain a CV, documentation of exams and grades, a copy of an undergraduate thesis, (with telephone, fax, and/or e-mail), at least two letters of recommendation with the authors telephone number and e-mail, a description of motivation and experience relevant to the research project and any other documentation