Postdoctoral researcher in wood modification, lignin systems, and durability under wet conditions

Jobbeskrivelse

The Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management (IGN), Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen invites applications for a postdoctoral position in wood science and biomaterials. The position is available from 1 July 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The position is for 24 months.

The projects The postdoc will work at the interface of two closely related research projects focusing on improving wood durability through chemical modification and lignin-based systems. The Nordic Forest Research (SNS) project “Methods for preventing fungal decay of wood in wet conditions” addresses one of the key challenges in sustainable use of forest resources: how to prolong the service life of wood under very wet conditions, such as in ground contact or outdoor environments. Fungal degradation of wood under such conditions remains poorly understood, particularly for chemically modified wood.

The project aims to identify which structural and chemical modifications of the wood cell wall are required to prevent fungal decay, using advanced characterisation techniques and controlled decay experiments. In parallel, the HYPERLIGNO project explores the use of lignin-based solutions to modify and enhance wood properties through impregnation (“hyperlignification”). This includes understanding lignin solubility, transport, and interactions within the wood structure, as well as the resulting effects on durability and moisture behaviour.

Together, the projects provide a unique opportunity to link fundamental understanding of wood–water–fungi interactions with emerging lignin-based modification strategies. Responsibilities and tasks The postdoc will contribute to both projects, with a primary focus on experimental work and data integration across the two research directions. Tasks include: Design and execution of experiments on chemical wood modification and lignin impregnation Preparation and characterisation of wood samples before and after fungal decay Advanced chemical and structural analysis (e.g. spectroscopy, microscopy, thermal analysis) Studies of moisture relations and transport processes in wood Participation in fungal decay experiments under controlled high-moisture conditions Data analysis using statistical and/or chemometric methods Integration of results across projects to identify key mechanisms governing durability Dissemination of results through scientific publications and presentations The position involves close collaboration with partners at Lund University and the Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research, as well as interaction with ongoing research activities within lignin-based materials at UCPH.

The postdoc’s duties will include research as well as teaching. The post may also include performance of other duties. Further information on the Department is linked at https://ign.ku.dk/ Inquiries about the position can be made to Section Head Thomas Nord-Larsen, +45 35 33 17 58, tnl@ign.ku.dk or Associate Professor Sune Tjalfe Thomsen, +45 35 33 62 62, stt@ign.ku.dk Our research environment The position is anchored in the Section for Forest, Nature and Biomass at IGN.

The section works with forest resources and bio-based materials as a foundation for sustainable materials, chemicals, and energy solutions. The postdoc will be part of the Bioresource Chemistry and Technology group, which focuses on understanding and utilizing plant biomass at multiple scales – from molecular interactions in plant cell walls to development of new materials and technologies. The group combines experimental and analytical approaches and operates in an international and collaborative research environment.

Profile and qualifications We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a strong background in one or more of the following areas: wood science, materials science, chemistry, chemical engineering, or related fields. Required qualifications: PhD in a relevant field Solid experience with experimental laboratory work Experience with chemical and/or physical characterisation techniques Strong data analysis skills Preferred qualifications: Experience with lignin, lignin solutions, or biomass processing Experience with wood materials, wood modification, or durability Familiarity with spectroscopy, microscopy, or thermal analysis techniques, preferable including confocal Raman microscopy, infrared spectroscopy and microscopy, and confocal laser scanning fluorescence microscopy Interest in linking fundamental mechanisms with applied materials development Personal qualifications: Ability to work independently and drive research forward Strong collaborative skills and ability to work in interdisciplinary teams Curiosity and a structured, analytical approach to experimental work The position is open from 1 July 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

We offer A position in a strong, internationally recognised research environment within wood science and bio-based materials Access to advanced analytical infrastructure and unique experimental setups Opportunities for international collaboration within the Nordic research network A dynamic and informal working environment Terms of employment Employment as postdoc is full-time and for 24 months. Terms of appointment and salary will be in accordance with the agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State. Negotiation for salary supplement is possible.

Application and assessment procedure Your application including all attachments must be in English and submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below. Please include: Curriculum vitae Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent) Research plan – description of current and future research plans Complete publication list Separate reprints of 3 particularly relevant papers The deadline for applications is 26 April 2026, 23:59 GMT +2. After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.

You can read about the recruitment process at https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/ Interviews will be held after agreement in the two weeks following the deadline.