Postdoc in AI-Driven Design and Modelling of Bio-Based Adhesives

SLU; Uppsala kommun; On-site; SEK 420,000 - 540,000; Full time

Job summary

SLU invites applications for a 24‑month postdoctoral position in the Department of Forest Bioeconomy and Technology, Uppsala, to advance AI‑driven design and modelling of bio‑based adhesives for furniture, construction and packaging. You will build data‑driven frameworks linking chemistry to performance, integrating experiments, characterization and machine learning.

The candidate will collaborate with academic and industrial partners to validate formulations and develop a transferable

Qualifications

• PhD within last 3 years in materials science, polymer science, chemistry, chemical engineering or closely related field.
• Strong expertise in polymer formulation and structure–property relationships for bio-based adhesives.
• Experience with advanced material characterization techniques.
• Interest in data‑driven research and machine learning for materials systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop data‑driven frameworks linking formulation chemistry to adhesive performance.
• Integrate experimental formulation, molecular characterization and machine learning to build predictive models.
• Create a structured formulation library and map key performance indicators.
• Collaborate with academic and industrial partners to validate formulations on relevant substrates.

Skills

Polymer formulation

Structure-property relationships

Data-driven research

Machine learning

Experimentation

Communication in English

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Education

Doctoral degree (within last 3 years)

Materials science / polymer science / chemistry / chemical engineering

Tools

Advanced material characterization

Modelling approaches

Job description

Postdoc in AI-Driven Design and Modelling of Bio-Based Adhesives

Uppsala

Reference number SLU.ua.2026.2.5.1-2082

Department of Forest Bioeconomy and Technology

Do you want to help shape the future of sustainable materials? We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to advance the design of next‑generation bio‑based adhesives that meet both sustainability targets and industrial performance requirements. In this project, you will combine cutting‑edge approaches in polymer science and AI‑driven modelling to develop predictive frameworks and high‑performance adhesive systems for furniture, construction and packaging industries. You will work at the interface of fundamental science and real‑world application, contributing to the transition toward a more sustainable materials economy. If you have a strong research background and a drive for innovation, this position offers an exciting opportunity to take the next step in your academic career!

The Centre unites 13 companies along the value chain in furniture, packaging and construction sectors that share the same research questions around adhesives and adhesive bonding.

About the position

The development of bio‑based adhesives is currently limited by a lack of predictive understanding of how formulation chemistry translates into material performance. This project addresses this challenge by establishing a data‑driven framework for the rational design of high‑performance bio‑adhesives. As a postdoctoral researcher, you will work on integrating experimental formulation, molecular‑level characterization, and machine learning to develop predictive models linking chemical descriptors to adhesive properties. The work includes the development of a structured formulation library, systematic mapping of key performance indicators, and the implementation of data‑driven optimization strategies to identify high‑performing systems. Machine learning approaches will be used to uncover structure‑property relationships and guide formulation design. The project combines experimental and computational approaches and includes validation of selected formulations on industrially relevant substrates. You will collaborate closely with academic and industrial partners and contribute to the development of a transferable predictive toolbox for next‑generation sustainable adhesives.

Your profile

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with a doctoral degree obtained within the last three years in materials science, polymer science, chemistry, chemical engineering, or a closely related field. The ideal candidate has strong expertise in polymer formulation and structure‑property relationships, particularly in the modification and crosslinking of bio‑based or functional polymers for adhesive or related applications. Experience with advanced material characterisation techniques is expected. A strong interest in data‑driven research is essential. Experience with modelling approaches, data analysis, or machine learning applied to materials or chemical systems is considered a strong merit. You are expected to have excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken, and a clear motivation to pursue an academic career. The ability to work independently, take initiative, and collaborate effectively in an interdisciplinary and international research environment is essential. In the evaluation of candidates, particular emphasis will be placed on (1) scientific excellence in polymer and materials science, (2) experience or demonstrated potential in applying machine learning and data‑driven approaches to materials or formulation design, and (3) the ability to contribute to and expand ongoing research activities within the group.

About us

The Department of Forest Bioeconomy and Technology at SLU brings together expertise in technology, natural and social sciences. The department provides world‑class interdisciplinary environment for research and education in the circular bioeconomy, with activities at the campuses in Umeå and Uppsala, and nationally and internationally. Our work spans the entire value chain of the forest‑based bioeconomy – from analysing how resources can be used and governed to developing technologies, materials, and industrial processes for sustainable bio‑based products and systems. The Department is responsible for education at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels and collaborates closely with both industry and academia nationally and internationally. With us, you can help shape a more sustainable bio‑based society.

Temporary employment 24 months, with the possibility of extension.

Scope:

100%

The position may start as agreed between both parties but not later than January 1, 2027.

Application:

Please submit your application before deadline 16 August 2026. You can submit your application by clicking the button below.

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has a key role in the development for sustainable life, based on science and education.

Through our focus on the interaction between humans, animals and ecosystems and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet.

Our main campuses are located in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala, however, the university also operates at research stations, experimental forests and teaching sites throughout Sweden.

SLU has around 4,000 employees, 6,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 4,5 billion.

We are investing in attractive environments on all of our campuses.

We strive to provide a work environment characterised by inclusivity and gender equality, where different experiences generate conversations between people and pave the way for science, creativity and development.

Therefore, we welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.