Do you have an interest in working at the intersection of glass science, computational chemistry, and materials science to develop fundamental understanding within a novel glass family? If yes, we look forward to reading your application to our PhD Stipend.

At the Faculty of Engineering and Science, Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, a PhD stipend is available within the study programme of Chemistry. The PhD stipend is open for appointment from 1st of May 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The position is for 3 years, and the workplace is in Aalborg, Denmark.

Your work tasks
A PhD stipend is available to study the fundamental vibrational behavior of hybrid organic-inorganic glasses. Around 10 years ago, it was discovered that hybrid organic-inorganic systems, such as the metal-organic frameworks, in some cases can undergo melting and subsequent cooling into a glassy phase. This has introduced a new “hybrid” glass family. Since then, hybrid glasses have been shown possess many interesting properties, e.g. high processability while maintaining an open porous structure. However, their fundamental vibrational behavior remains poorly understood. This limits the possibilities to enhance their properties. This PhD project seeks to uncover fundamental understanding of the vibrations in these materials to overcome this limitation. The PhD candidate will establish computational models of a range of hybrid organic-inorganic glasses and compare their vibrational properties against each other as well as more established glass families. The project will complement molecular dynamics simulations with experiments (spectroscopy and scattering methods) to support computational findings. The PhD candidate is expected to participate in all aspects of the project including planning of simulations and experiments, reviewing of literature, experimental work, modelling, data analysis, writing etc. The project can to some extent be tailored to the candidate’s interests and expertise.
The PhD student will follow courses according to the university’s PhD program. Further, the candidate is expected to engage in teaching within the chemistry programs at Aalborg University and be involved in project-based student supervision within the research section.     

Your competencies    
A master’s degree is a requirement, preferably in chemistry, chemical engineering, physics, or materials science. Previous experience in glass chemistry, molecular dynamics, and the use of high-performance computing is advantageous. Also, experience from synchrotron or neutron facilities is an advantage but not a requirement. Excellent oral and written English language skills are a requirement. The applicant must be interested in working in an interdisciplinary research environment and is expected to take part in the daily activities within the Section of Disordered Materials which in turn offers access to state-of-the-art laboratories, high-performance computing facilities, and a supportive research environment within glass science. As part of the PhD study the applicant is expected to conduct a longer international stay of ~3 months. Occasional travelling to international large-scale facilities, conferences, and workshops is to be expected.

Qualification requirements
PhD stipends are allocated to individuals who hold a Master's degree. PhD stipends are normally for a period of 3 years. It is a prerequisite for allocation of the stipend that the candidate will be enrolled as a PhD student at the Doctoral School of Engineering and Science in accordance with the regulations of Ministerial Order No. 1124 of September 19, 2025 on the PhD Programme at the Universities and Certain Higher Artistic Educational Institutions. According to the Ministerial Order, the progress of the PhD student shall be assessed at regular points in time. As part of the PhD study, you are among other things required to complete PhD courses corresponding to 30 ECTS, gain experience with teaching or other forms of knowledge dissemination and complete an external research stay outside of Aalborg University, preferably 3-6 months at a foreign research institution.

Who we are    
At the Department of Chemistry and Bioscience (BIO), our high-level research spans from basic to applied within both natural sciences and engineering. With approx. 150 employees, 75 PhD students, and 775 bachelor and master’s students at our campuses in Aalborg (main campus) and Esbjerg, we are a vital research and educational institution when it comes to creating new basic knowledge as well as contributing to solving the world’s challenges within biology, chemistry, biotechnology, bioengineering, environmental science, and chemical engineering.

We continuously improve our department as an attractive place of work and study. We offer flexible hours, social activities throughout the year both at the department level and in each Section. We are inclusive and have respect for individuals, communities, and cultures. Our work culture is founded on openness, curiosity, transparency, and involvement. Come join us! 
Read more about the department here; Welcome to the Department of Chemistry and Bioscience - en.bio.aau.dk - Aalborg University 

How to apply
Your application must include the following:

• Application, stating reasons for applying and qualifications in relation to the position
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Diplomas (bachelor's and master's degree diploma, including grades) 
• Other relevant documents

The application must be submitted via Aalborg University’s recruitment system, which can be accessed under the job advertisement on Aalborg University's website. 

Aalborg University wants to reflect the surrounding society and has diversity as a core value. Therefore, everyone, regardless of personal background and orientation, is encouraged to apply for the position.

Do you have any questions?     
If you have any questions about the position, you are more than welcome to contact us. You will find contact persons at the bottom of the jobpost.

Further information  
Read more about our recruitment process here.

The assessment of candidates for the position will be carried out by qualified experts.
Shortlisting will be applied. This means that after the application deadline, the head of the department, with the assistance of the hiring committee, will select the applicants to be assessed. All applicants will be informed whether they have been shortlisted for assessment or not.

The hiring process at Aalborg University may include a risk assessment as a tool to identify potential risks associated with new hires, ensuring the safety, compliance, and integrity of the workplace.

Read more about The Doctoral School of Engineering and Science

Salary and terms of employment
The employment is in accordance with the Ministerial Order on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Universities (the Appointment Order) and the Ministerial Order on Job Structure for Academic Staff at Universities (in Danish).

Salary and terms of employment are in accordance with the collective agreement between the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations and the state (AC collective agreement) (in Danish) 

Aalborg University - Knowledge for the world
Aalborg University is an international workplace with more than 3,700 employees. We offer real-world-oriented education and create world-class research results through collaboration between researchers, students, and public and private companies. This is how we achieve insights, new solutions to societal problems, and knowledge that changes the world. Our main campus is in Aalborg, but we also have campuses in Esbjerg and Copenhagen.