The Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, SLU is seeking a PhD student to explore the role of pharmaceuticals on antimicrobial resistance in the environment
Description:
Antimicrobial resistance poses health risks to humans and our environment. Unlike classical antimicrobials (e.g., antibacterials), knowledge on the impact of non-antibiotic pharmaceuticals in the development and dissemination of resistance remains largely lacking. Non-antibiotic pharmaceuticals account for a large proportion of the drug market worldwide. Many of them are often present in natural and engineered environmental systems (e.g., surface water, municipal wastewater) with preserved biological activity that may act as selective pressure. To date, little is known about the role and risk of non-antibiotic pharmaceuticals in promoting and spreading antimicrobial resistance in the environment.
We are seeking for a doctoral student who will (i) characterise and meta-analyse non-antibiotic pharmaceuticals as antimicrobials in the environment, (ii) carry out field studies and laboratory experiments, (iii) perform quantitative and semi-quantitative chemical analysis of water samples, (iv) assess the impact of non-antibiotic pharmaceuticals on the resistance proliferation and dissemination in environmental water systems, and (v) identify related influencing factors and potential indicator substances for resistance.
The duties also include big data analysis and processing, statistical evaluation, writing scientific manuscripts in English, and disseminating the results.
Qualifications:
- Applicants shall hold a MSc in Environmental Organic Chemistry, Ecotoxicology, Environmental Engineering, Environmental Science or equivalent.
- Specialisation towards antimicrobial resistance and organic micropollutants in the aquatic environment are valuable merits.
- Data processing skills using statistical computing tools and graphics, e.g. R, MATLAB, is highly desirable.
- Previous experience with trace analysis of organic chemicals, e.g., pharmaceuticals, in environmental matrices, elucidation of chemical structures based on mass spectra, and the use of liquid-chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry for data acquisition and quantification are of high merits too.
- High emphasis is also placed on personal characteristics, such as interpersonal skills, analytical and problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently.
- Proficiency in English (both spoken and written) is required, and knowledge of Swedish is also an advantage.
Place of work: Uppsala
Forms for funding or employment: Employment (4 years)
Scope: 100%
Starting date: According to agreement.
Application:
Click the “Apply” button on the job page to submit your application. The deadline is 17th May 2026.
The application should include:
i) your CV,
ii) a short description of your experience demonstrating your suitability for the position,
iii) copies of higher education diplomas,
iv) contact information of at least two reference persons, and
v) preferably also a written reference letter from at least one reference person.
Contact person:
Foon Yin Lai, Senior Lecturer,