Doctoral student in graphene-based biosensors

Join us to pursue exciting research in a dynamic and out-of-the-box-thinking environment! 

About us 
The Department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience advances the frontiers in quantum technology, nanoscience, photonics and future electronic systems - for technical and societal development. Our cross-disciplinary approach gives interesting collaborations in academy, industry and society, and is a driving force for innovations, results and breakthroughs. We offer a vibrant, international research environment and direct access to world-class nanofabrication facilities. 

At the Quantum Technology Laboratory, we explore how quantum physics can unlock radically new ways of processing information - far beyond the limits of classical systems. Our research spans quantum computing, sensing, transduction, thermodynamics, and foundations, all aimed at harnessing the powerful behavior of light and matter at the quantum level. We offer a vibrant, international research environment and direct access to world-class nanofabrication facilities

About the research project  
BUG-ID is a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Action Doctoral Network (DN), funded by the European Commission, Horizon Europe Program. 

The World Health Organization has emphasized the importance of early and accurate diagnosis of bacterial infections. To address this challenge, seven European universities, one research institute, one hospital and six private companies have combined efforts in this consortium. Our consortium will train 15 doctoral candidates with skills in interdisciplinary research, spanning from nanotechnology and materials science to molecular microbiology, biochemistry, infection medicine to AI-based data analysis. This project is about developing graphene biosensors with high-sensitivity and selectivity. 

Who we are looking for
The following requirements are mandatory:

• To qualify as a Doctoral student, you must have a Master's degree (masterexamen) of 120 credits or a Master’s degree (magisterexamen) of 60 credits* in Physics, Physical Chemistry, Material Science, or Biophysics. 
• You will need strong written and verbal communication skills in English 
• Experience in problem-solving exersices/courses/projects.  
• Personal competences in accordance with the requirements profile including specification (e.g. social skills, meaning that you enjoy collaborating with others) 

*for students with an education earned outside of Sweden, a 4-year Bachelor’s degree is accepted. 

The following experience will strengthen your application: 

• Experience in microfabrication, electronic-circuit design, realization and its testing; programming in any computer language (Python, C, Matlab etc.); electrical measurements. 

What you will do

• Take courses at an advanced level within the Graduate school of Microtechnology and Nanoscience.
• Develop your own scientific concepts and communicate the results of your research verbally and in writing 
• Possibly teach on Chalmers' undergraduate level or perform other duties corresponding to 20 percent of working hours.
• Master graphene growth by chemical vapor deposition, its characterization and optimization.
• Design sensor layout and evaluate materials involved, from the standpoint of bio compatibility.
• Functionalize graphene devices, in collaboration with chemists and assess graphene parameters and device sensitivity.
• Pattern devices using micro-fabrication facilities at MC2 with an eye on possible scaling up the technology.
• Measure sensitivity and selectivity of obtained biosensors; validation of electronics setups.
• Scout for- and test non-trivial sensor readout mechanisms and schemes, possibly combining sensors with microfluidic systems, etc.
• Analyze data and write reports and articles.

Contract terms  

• The Doctoral student positions are fully funded from start. 
• The position is a fixed-term appointment of four years, with the possibility to teach up to 20%, which extends the position up to five years. 
• A starting salary of 34,550 SEK per month (valid from May 25, 2025). 
• Doctoral studies require physical presence throughout the entire study period. A valid residence permit must be presented by the study start date; otherwise the admission may be withdrawn. 

What we offer 

• As a Doctoral student at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about  working at Chalmers  and our benefits for employees. 
• A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. 
• Read more about Sweden’s generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare etc at Move To Gothenburg. 

Chalmers is dedicated to improving gender balance and actively works with equality projects, such as the GENIE Initiative for gender equality and excellence. 

If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in.

Find more general information about doctoral studies at Chalmers here.  

Application procedure 
The application should be written in English and attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files. 

CV 

Personal letter 


• A brief introduction about yourself. 
• A brief motivation as to why you are interested in this position. 
• Please be concise and concrete. 

Bachelor’s and, if available, master’s thesis together with the transcripts. 

Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.  

Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. Contact details to references will be requested after the interview. 

We welcome your application no later than 1 February 2026  .

For questions, please contact:  
August Yurgens
Professor 
yurgens@chalmers.se

 
*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***