PHD Research Fellow in Chemistry at the Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC) (Analysis of microplastic particle transport in urban environments)

24 Mar 2026
Job Information

Organisation/Company

State research institute Center for Physical Sciences and Technology

Department

The Department of Environmental research

Research Field

Chemistry

Researcher Profile

First Stage Researcher (R1)

Positions

PhD Positions

Application Deadline

5 May 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/Vilnius)

Country

Lithuania

Type of Contract

Permanent

Job Status

Full-time

Hours Per Week

40

Offer Starting Date

1 Oct 2026

Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by a EU programme

Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

Offer Description

PHD Research Fellow in Chemistry at the Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC)

The Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC) is the largest scientific research institution in Lithuania, conducting cutting-edge fundamental research and technological development. FTMC’s research spans key areas such as laser technologies, photonics, materials science, chemistry, electronics, nuclear physics, and nanotechnologies. FTMC offers doctoral studies in a multidisciplinary research environment where fundamental science is closely connected with applied research and industry collaboration. FTMC provides a strong scientific base, international research networks, and the flexibility for doctoral students to develop independent, high-impact research. 

Topic: Analysis of microplastic particle transport in urban environments

Topic Description:

Microplastic particles are becoming an increasingly discussed form of anthropogenic pollution, but their distribution in the urban environment and the dynamics determined by environmental factors remain insufficiently assessed. The aim of this work is to conduct studies on the identification and quantification of microplastics in order to determine their distribution trends in the city, sources, transport and potential impact on the environment and human health. The study plans to apply an integrated set of sampling and analytical chemistry methods, including spectroscopic studies of the polymer composition and morphology of microplastics. Statistical analysis and risk assessment methodologies will be applied to the obtained quantitative data, allowing the calculation of pollutant exposure indicators, hazard indices and potential carcinogenic or non-carcinogenic risk levels. In addition, assessments of the sources of exposure and spread trends of microplastics will be carried out, taking into account the influence of urban structure, seasonality and anthropogenic processes. It is expected that the results obtained will allow a more accurate assessment of the contribution of urbanization to the release of microplastics into the environment, will contribute to the improvement of monitoring strategies, and will provide sound information for further risk communication and planning of management measures.

Supervisor:

Dr. Ieva Uogintė, Senior researcher in Department of Environmental Research FTMC, 

About the Department:

The Department of Environmental research performs cutting-edge investigations of micro- and nanoplastics across diverse environmental media and clinical samples, uncovering their distribution, characteristics, and potential health implications. This includes the detection and physicochemical characterization in human tissues, comprehensive evaluations of removal pathways and efficiencies within wastewater treatment plants, and wideranging environmental monitoring of plastic pollution across riverine, coastal, and urban ecosystems, strengthened by both scientific and citizen-science methodologies.

Where to apply

Website

https://www.ftmc.lt/phd-admission-and-2026-research-topics/

Requirements

Research Field

Chemistry

Education Level

Master Degree or equivalent

Skills/Qualifications

Master Degree or equivalent; Research Field - Chemistry 

Specific Requirements

Practical laboratory experience with microplastics. Candidates must be proficient in microplastic extraction and characterization techniques. Experience with spectroscopic identification of polymers is highly preferred

Languages

ENGLISH

Level

Excellent

Research Field

Chemistry

Additional Information
Benefits

A PhD at FTMC offers the opportunity to:

• conduct original research in a leading scientific research institute
• work with internationally recognised researchers
• access modern laboratories and advanced scientific infrastructure
• present research results at international conferences
• develop transferable skills and research independence

Doctoral students are encouraged to participate in international mobility, research internships.

Funding

Successful candidates will receive a state-funded doctoral stipend:

Year 1: 1406 EUR/month
Years 2 – 4: 1628 EUR/month

Funding for study-related expenses

Additional funding opportunities may be available through research projects and international collaborations.

Eligibility criteria

Applicants should have:

• a Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field
• strong motivation to conduct scientific research
• good command of English
• ability to work both independently and in a team

Additional requirements may depend on the specific research topic.

Selection process

Selection process

Applicants must apply for one selected doctoral research topic.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a motivational interview with the doctoral admission committee.

 

Required Documents

Applicants must submit:

• Application form
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Master’s diploma and diploma supplement
• Reference letters (including one from the potential supervisor). To receive a recommendation from the potential supervisor, candidates must complete the candidate questionnaire
• List of publications (if available)
• Copy of identity document
• Other relevant documents (optional)

Additional comments

Additional comments

The final admission score is based on:

• Master’s degree grade average
• motivation interview evaluation
• scientific experience and publications

Doctoral studies start in October 2026.

Website for additional job details

https://www.ftmc.lt/phd-admission-and-2026-research-topics/

Work Location(s)

Number of offers available

1

Company/Institute

Center for Physical Sciences and Technology

Country

Lithuania

State/Province

Lithuania

City

Vilnius

Postal Code

10222

Street

Saulėtekio al. 3

Geofield

Contact

State/Province

Vilniaus

City

Vilnius

Website

https://www.ftmc.lt/

Street

Savanorių ave. 231

Postal Code

02300

E-Mail

admissions@ftmc.lt

STATUS: EXPIRED

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