项目介绍

2026年6月5日

The Department of Environmental Science is one of the biggest departments at the Faculty of Science. The department consists of four units with more than 170 researchers, teachers, doctoral students and technical/administrative staff from over 30 countries. Research and teaching focuses on chemical contaminants, atmospheric science, biogeochemistry and (eco)toxicology. As an employee at the Department of Environmental Science you will be part of a dynamic environment with research in leading research areas and with a strong international profile. More information about us, please visit: the Department of Environmental Science.

The unit for Atmospheric Science at the Department of Environmental Science (ACES) conducts research on atmospheric composition, aerosol particles, and their impacts on climate and the environment. The research combines experimental studies and modeling, with a particular focus on aerosol–cloud interactions, long-range transport of air pollutants, and processes in polar regions. The unit has extensive experience in field measurements, including activities in the Arctic and around the globe, and is closely integrated into international research networks. As a PhD student, you will be part of a dynamic research environment with advanced infrastructure and strong links between observations, laboratory work, and modeling.

Project description

Microplastic particles have recently been identified as a global atmospheric contaminant, but their role in cloud formation remains largely unknown. This project investigates whether microplastics are present in Arctic clouds and assesses their potential to influence cloud microphysics, ice nucleation, and climate.

The project combines field observations in the polar regions, laboratory experiments, and atmospheric modeling. Laboratory studies will be performed to develop and improve analytical methods, and to analyze field samples, to test different microplastics for their physio-chemical characteristics. These results will be used in model simulations to quantify the broader climatic relevance of airborne microplastics.

The project addresses a key knowledge gap at the interface of atmospheric science and pollution research and may reveal a previously overlooked feedback mechanism in the Arctic climate system.

The thesis work will be conducted within the framework of the project “Plastic in Arctic Clouds: Microplastics and their influence on ice-Nucleation (PAC-MAN)”, funded by the Swedish Research Council.

Qualification requirements

In order to be admitted to postgraduate education, the applicant must have the general and specific entry requirements. The qualification requirements must be met before admission.

You meet general entry requirements if you have completed a second-cycle degree, or completed courses equivalent to at least 240 higher education credits, of which 60 credits must be in the second cycle, or have otherwise acquired equivalent knowledge in Sweden or elsewhere.

Specific entry requirements for doctoral studies in Environmental Science, is met if at least 45 of the credits at the second cycle is in one of the natural sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Physics, or Meteorology) including a 30 credits thesis project. The applicant should also have 30 credits in other natural science subjects different from the major. 

Selection

The selection among the eligible candidates will be based on their capacity to benefit from the training. The following criteria will be used to assess this capacity:

• documented knowledge in a relevant field of research
• capacity for analytical and creative thinking
• initiative
• independence
• ability to collaborate
• written and oral proficiency in English

Experience in atmospheric measurements, aerosol analysis (e.g. using FTIR), laboratory work, or data analysis/programming (e.g. Python or similar) is considered a merit. Experience with fieldwork is also an advantage.

A background in physics, meteorology, chemistry, or related natural sciences is particularly meritorious.

Admission Regulations for Doctoral Studies at Stockholm University.

About the employment

We offer a fixed-term employment as a doctoral student according to Chapter 5 of the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100). The period of employment may not be longer than what corresponds to full-time doctoral education for four years. As a doctoral student, you should primarily devote yourself to your own doctoral education, but the employment may include work with education, research and administration to a limited extent (maximum 20 %).

A new employment as a doctoral student is for a maximum of one year, the employment is then renewed for a maximum of two years at a time.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact

For more information, please contact Professor Paul Zieger, phone: +46 8 674 76 34, paul.zieger@aces.su.se.

Application

Apply for the PhD student position at Stockholm University’s recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

The instructions for applicants are available at: How to apply for a position.

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