Postdoctoral Opportunity in Sustainable Photosynthetic Living Materials and Devices at Linköping University

As the world confronts the critical challenges of climate change and sustainability, the need for innovative technologies to address these issues has never been more urgent. One such frontier is the development of photosynthetic living materials and devices, which could revolutionize industries ranging from bioengineering to environmental sustainability. Linköping University, through its participation in the Wallenberg Initiative Materials Science for Sustainability (WISE), offers an exciting postdoctoral research opportunity to advance the field of sustainable technology. The successful candidate will work on integrating photosynthetic organisms into materials and devices, creating biohybrid systems with living, adaptive, and evolving characteristics. This postdoctoral position is ideal for researchers with a strong scientific background in materials science, bioengineering, or related disciplines.

Research Objectives and Responsibilities

The central aim of this postdoctoral project is to develop biohybrid living materials and devices that utilize photosynthetic organisms. These materials will possess responsive and evolving properties, which could lead to groundbreaking applications in sustainable technologies. The researcher will work on the following key tasks:

• Development of Biohybrids: Creating materials and devices based on photosynthetic organisms that demonstrate adaptability and responsiveness.
• Additive Manufacturing: Innovating techniques to integrate photosynthetic components into materials and devices using advanced manufacturing methods.
• Functionalization of Biological Components: Combining biological entities with technological and stimuli-responsive materials to enhance functionality.
• Sustainability Research: Investigating the longevity, adaptability, and ecological impact of living materials, evaluating their potential for sustainable applications.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Working closely with experts in organic chemistry, plant biology, and materials science to drive interdisciplinary innovations.
• Dissemination: Engaging with the broader scientific community through international conferences and networking events.

Why Join Linköping University?

This postdoctoral position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to transformative materials science research with direct applications in sustainability. Key reasons to apply include:

• Groundbreaking Research: Be part of a team working at the forefront of developing innovative biohybrid materials that combine the biological and technological worlds.
• Collaborative Environment: Linköping University’s Laboratory of Organic Electronics (LOE) fosters a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach, bringing together over 150 researchers from diverse fields.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Utilize cutting-edge fabrication and growth facilities to conduct your research, supported by advanced tools and technologies.
• WISE Research School: Participate in a nationwide initiative that offers seminars, courses, and collaborative research activities, strengthening your professional network within the scientific community.
• Competitive Salary and Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary of 41,500 SEK/month, along with comprehensive health and social benefits, including paid holidays and pension contributions.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will have a PhD in materials science, bioengineering, biotechnology, bioelectronics, plant biology, or a related field. The candidate should have demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Bioengineering or Biotechnology: Practical experience in working with biological systems and integrating them into material technologies.
• Additive Manufacturing: Familiarity with additive manufacturing techniques, especially in the context of biohybrid systems and living materials.
• Stimuli-Responsive Materials: Knowledge of materials that change in response to external stimuli, which can be crucial for developing adaptive biohybrids.
• Problem-Solving and Innovation: A strong ability to develop creative solutions to complex challenges, with a passion for cutting-edge research.
• Collaboration and Communication: Excellent communication skills in English, and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

The Work Environment

Linköping University’s Laboratory of Organic Electronics (LOE) is an internationally recognized hub for bioelectronics, energy devices, printed electronics, and nanooptics. The laboratory is home to over 150 researchers, providing a vibrant and stimulating environment for interdisciplinary collaboration. The successful candidate will work within the Electronic Plants group, led by Senior Associate Professor Eleni Stavrinidou. This group is focused on developing bioelectronic technologies and biohybrid systems that combine biological and technological elements to create sustainable, adaptive solutions for a wide range of applications.

Application Process

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply through the university's online application portal by May 27, 2025. The application should include:

• A CV and cover letter detailing the applicant's qualifications and research interests.
• A statement outlining why the candidate is interested in this position and how their skills align with the job requirements.

The position is for a two-year contract, with the possibility of extension to a maximum of three years. The postdoc will start as soon as an agreement is reached.

For more information and to apply, please visit the official application page:

Further Information and Resources

• WISE Materials Science for Sustainability
• Laboratory of Organic Electronics (LOE)
• Electronic Plants Group at Linköping University