phd biotechnology in sweden

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Division of Biotechnology

Department of chemistry, phd program.

The Division of Biotechnology offers a PhD program of four years, designed to prepare students for productive careers in biotechnology. Its emphasis is training in research, and each student works closely with members of the staff. In addition to the requirement for a PhD dissertation based on original research, students are required to complete advanced courses in biotechnology and related areas, of a total of 60 points. Selection of these courses is tailored to fit the background and interests of each student.

All PhD students are expected to participate actively in the seminar program of the division and students are encouraged to attend and to present papers at regional and national meetings in biotechnology. Teaching experience is an integral part of the PhD curriculum and the PhD students are expected to work as lab-assistants at the various courses given by the department. There is no enrolment form for application of a PhD position. The number of available PhD positions depends on the amount of funding received in the various research fields at the department. If you are interested in a specific field contact the people responsible for the field directly (see the different research areas ) or contact the Head of the division  Eva Nordberg Karlsson .

Information about PhD positions can be found on the faculty website.

Vacant positions

More information about PhD studies

Post graduate studies at the Department of Chemistry

Post graduate studies at the Faculty of Engineering (LTH)

Post graduat studies at Lund University

Sidöversikt

Departments.

• Architecture and Built Environment
• Automatic Control
• Building and Environmental Technology
• Centre for Mathematical Sciences
• Chemical Engineering
• Computer Science
• Construction Sciences
• Design Sciences
• Electrical and Information Technology
• Energy Sciences
• Food Technology, Engineering and Nutrition
• Immunotechnology
• Industrial Management and Logistics
• Measurement Technology and Industrial Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Technology and Society

International Master's programmes

• Architecture
• Biotechnology
• Energy-efficient and Environmental Building Design
• Food Technology and Nutrition
• Nanoscience
• Sustainable Urban Design
• System on Chip
• Water Resources
• Wireless Communication

Exchange studies

• Swedish academic system
• How to apply
• Courses available for exchange students

Teaching and learning

• Vattenhallen Science Centre
• The Academic Development Unit at the Faculty of Engineering
• Lund University Academic Support Centre

Faculty of Engineering, LTH Box 118, SE-221 00 LUND Telefon: +46 46-222 72 00 [email protected]

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19 Best universities for Biotechnology in Sweden

Updated: February 29, 2024

• Art & Design
• Computer Science
• Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
• Mathematics

Below is a list of best universities in Sweden ranked based on their research performance in Biotechnology. A graph of 1.4M citations received by 33.9K academic papers made by 19 universities in Sweden was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. Karolinska Institute

For Biotechnology

2. Lund University

3. Uppsala University

4. University of Gothenburg

5. Umea University

6. Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences

7. Linkoping University

8. Chalmers University of Technology

9. Stockholm University

10. KTH Royal Institute of Technology

11. Boras University College

12. Malmo University

13. Lulea University of Technology

14. Orebro University

15. Malardalen University

16. Mid Sweden University

17. Linnaeus University

18. Karlstad University

19. University of Skovde

The best cities to study Biotechnology in Sweden based on the number of universities and their ranks are Stockholm , Lund , Uppsala , and Gothenburg .

Biology subfields in Sweden

PhD studies at Stockholm University

Stockholm University stands as an attractive destination for those considering PhD studies. With a strong commitment to research excellence and a growing network of international collaborations, the university offers a favourable environment for advanced research and academic growth.

Stockholm University has a long tradition of research excellence spanning various fields of study, both in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Many faculty members are at the forefront of their respective disciplines, producing influential research that addresses pressing global challenges and contributing to the shaping of industries, policies and societies.

Doctoral students are employees

Moreover, Stockholm University recognizes international collaborations as an essential part of scientific research, thus actively fosters partnerships with esteemed institutions and scholars from around the world. This global perspective enriches the academic experience for PhD candidates, providing valuable insights and opportunities for cross-cultural engagement.

• Stockholm University is one of the 100 highest-ranked universities in the world and one of the top 50 universities in Europe
• We offer a wide range of research subjects within science and human science
• There are no tuition fees for doctoral education in Sweden
• Doctoral students are employees at SU and  receive salary and other standard benefits of employment.

Available PhD positions

As the academia constitutes the cradle of knowledge, I am proud of being part of this community which actively contributes in the generation of innovative ideas which target to solve everyday problems. I also enjoy the close connection to the industry in Sweden.

- Varvara Apostolopoulou Kalkavoura

Read the full interview with Varvara

Doctoral studies in Sweden

Our doctoral studies take four years and result in a degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), the highest academic degree in Sweden. During this period you will both take advanced courses in your field of interest and work in a original research project.  However, after two years, you might have the possibility to take an intermediate degree of licentiate.

Admission requirements

To be admitted to PhD studies, you need to meet the general entry requirements, the specific entry requirements, and have the ability to successfully complete your studies.

General entry requirements include a completed master’s degree from a Swedish university or at least 240 higher education credits including at least 60 at the master’s level, or the corresponding international equivalents.

Institutions may have specific eligibility requirements. Verify the requirements for your area of interest with the relevant institution.

How to apply

One thing that differentiates PhD programmes at Stockholm University and Sweden from those elsewhere is that most of our PhD students are treated like full employees of the university. PhD positions are posted alongside other jobs on our website and applications are made for specific positions. PhD positions can be announced once or twice per year, depending on funding availability.

Before sending your application, you can check the department’s website for further information about the faculty and the possibilities connected with the PhD position. You can also find specific information about the application process in the announce for the position, along with the contact person if you have further questions.

There is usually an opportunity to apply for doctoral studies both in the autumn and spring. On the institutions' websites about doctoral studies, you can find the specific dates applicable to that institution. You can also see the current doctoral positions advertised. 

Find available PhD vacancies at Stockholm University

Funding and financing doctoral studies

In most cases, doctoral students are treated as employees at Stockholm University, which means they receive a salary and other standard benefits of employment.  There is even the possibility for you to extend your period of studies by working with teaching or administrative tasks within your department, up to 20% of a full-time position, which can result in a full extra year of employment as PhD student.

However, it is possible to pursue doctoral studies at Stockholm University also in case you have an external scholarship or special agreement with a company or other external employers. In these special cases, you will be subject to your employer-specific conditions only, and be considered solely a student at Stockholm University.

Residence permits (if applicable)

If you are an international student from a country outside the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland and you plan to pursue a PhD in Sweden, you will need a residence permit to study in the country. The residence permit is required for stays longer than three months.

You will find more information on the Swedish Migration Agency's website:

Residence permit for doctoral studies

Faculty information

Faculty of science.

Research at the Faculty of Science covers broad knowledge areas, ranging from the elementary particles of atomic nuclei to the outermost limits of the universe, for example. Several of the faculty's institutions have been behind discoveries and scientific breakthroughs that receive recognition worldwide.

The Stockholm University BioResearch School organizes PhD courses for students at any of the Biology departments at SU no matter their subject area.

Stockholm University BioResearch School

Faculty of Humanities

Research in the humanities maintains high quality, with a wide range of subjects, allowing university researchers to engage in collaborative efforts across scientific domains. Philosophy, history, art and literary studies, journalism, linguistics, and Swedish as a second language for the deaf are examples of subjects in which research is conducted.

Those admitted to doctoral education have the opportunity to participate in the Faculty of Humanities Research School.

Faculty of Humanities Research School

Faculty of Law

The Faculty of Law achieves nationally leading and internationally outstanding research. The researcher's freedom characterizes the scientific work. Legal discussions are expected to be lively, open, and ongoing.

Faculty of Social Sciences

The Faculty of Social Sciences conducts qualified and high-quality research within its various established disciplines and interdisciplinary research fields. Strong connections to current challenges for society and politics generate central research questions.

The Faculty of Social Sciences offers doctoral education courses for those admitted to an institution belonging to the Faculty of Social Sciences.

Doctoral Education Courses

Research subjects at Stockholm University

Research infrastructures at Stockholm University

The departments provide education at the PhD level

The individual departments often publish specific information doctoral studies programmes at their respective website.  All institutions offering education at the PhD level are categorized into the following fields: humanities, languages, social sciences, and law, as well as natural sciences.

Department of Archaeology and Classical Studies

• General Archaeology
• Classical Archaeology and Ancient History
• Archaeological Science
• Osteoarchaeology

Doctoral studies at the Department of Archaeology and Classical Studies

Department of Culture and Aesthetics

• History of Ideas
• Art History
• Literary Studies
• Theatre and Performance studies

Doctoral studies at the Department of Culture and Aesthetics

Department of Media Studies

• Journalism Studies
• Media and Communication Studies
• Fashion Studies
• Cinema Studies

Doctoral studies at the Department Media Studies

Department of History

Doctoral studies at the Department of History

Department of Philosophy

• Practical Philosophy
• Theoretical Philosophy

Doctoral studies at the Department of Philosophy

Department of Ethnology, History of Religions and Gender Studies

• History of Religions
• Gender Studies

Doctoral studies at the Department of Ethnology, History of Religions and Gender Studies

Department of Teaching and Learning

• Mathematics Education
• Science Education
• Language Education
• Teaching and learning with Specialisation in the Arts, Humanities, and Social Science Education

Doctoral studies at the Department of Teaching and Learning

Department of English

• English Linguistics
• English-language Literature

Doctoral studies at the Department of English

Department of Linguistics

• Linguistics

Doctoral studies at the Department of Linguistics

Department of Romance and Classical Languages

• Romance Languages

Doctoral studies at the Department of Romance and Classical Languages

Department of Slavic and Baltic Studies, Finnish, Dutch and German

• Baltic Languages
• Slavic Languages

Doctoral studies at the Department of Slavic and Baltic Studies, Finnish, Dutch and German

Department of Swedish Language and Multilingualism

• Scandinavian Languages
• Bilingualism
• Translation Studies

Doctoral studies at the Department of Swedish Language and Multilingualism

Department of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies

• Asian languages and cultures
• Middle Eastern languages and cultures

Doctoral studies at the Department of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies

Social sciences and law

Department of child and youth studies.

• Child and Youth Studies
• Preschool Didactics

Doctoral studies at the Department of Child and Youth Studies

Department of Computer and Systems Sciences

• Computer and Systems Sciences
• Information Society

Doctoral studies at the Department of Computer and Systems Sciences

Department of Criminology

• Criminology

Doctoral studies at the Department of Criminology

Department of Economic History and International Relations

• Economic History
• International Relations

Doctoral studies at the Department of Economic History and International Relations

Department of Economics

Doctoral studies is provided in collaboration with:

Institute for International Economic Studies (IIES)

Swedish institute for social research (sofi).

Programs at the doctoral level at the Department of Economics

Department of Education 

Doctoral studies at the Department of Education

Department of Human Geography

• Geography with a Cultural Geography focus

Doctoral studies at the Department of Human Geography

Department of Political Science

• Political Science

Doctoral studies at the Department of Political Science

Department of Psychology

Doctoral studies at the Department of Psychology

Department of Public Health Sciences

• Public Health Sciences

Doctoral studies at the Department of Public Health Science

Department of Social Anthropology

• Social Anthropology

Doctoral studies at the Department of Social Anthropology

Department of Sociology

• Sociological Demography

Studies at the doctoral level at the Department of Sociology

Department of Social Work

• Social Work

Doctoral studies at the Department of Social Work

Department of Special Education

• Special Education

Doctoral studies at the Department of Special Education

Department of Statistics

Doctoral studies at the Department of Statistics

• Didactics of Mathematics
• Didactics of Natural Sciences
• Language Didactics
• Subject Didactics with a focus on the didactics of aesthetic, humanistic, or social science subjects

Doctoral studies at the Department of Teaching and Learnin

• International Economics
• Research and higher education in economics

Doctoral studies in Economics

Stockholm Business School

• Business Administration
• Financial Economics

Doctoral studies at Stockholm Business School

• Doctoral candidates at SOFI are enrolled in either the Department of Sociology or the Department of Economics.

Doctoral studies at the Swedish Institute for Social Research

Department of Law

• Jurisprudence

Doctoral studies at the Department of Law  

Natural Sciences

Department of ecology, environment and plant sciences.

• Ecology and Evolution
• Ecotoxicology
• Marine Biology
• Plant Physiology
• Plant Systematics

Doctoral studies at the Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences  

Department of Molecular Biosciences, Wenner-Gren Institute

• Molecular Biosciences

Doctoral studies at the Department of Molecular Biosciences, Wenner-Gren Institute

Department of Zoology

• Functional Zoomorphology
• Population Genetics
• Zoological Ecology
• Zoological Systematics and Evolution

Doctoral studies at the Department of Zoology

Stockholm Resilience Centre

• Sustainability Science

Doctoral studies at Stockholm Resilience Centre

Earth and Environmental Sciences

Department of geological sciences.

• Geochemistry
• Marine Geology

Doctoral studies at the Department of Geological Sciences  

Department of Environmental Science

• Environmental Science

Doctoral studies at the Department of Environmental Science

Department of Physical Geography

• Physical Geography

Doctoral studies at the Department of Physical Geography

Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics Biophysics

• Biochemistry
• Biochemistry towards bioinformatics

Doctoral studies at the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics  

Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry

• Analytical Chemistry
• Physical Chemistry
• Materials Chemistry
• Neurochemistry with Molecular biology
• Inorganic Chemistry

Doctoral studies at the Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry  

Department of Organic Chemistry

• Organic Chemistry

Doctoral studies at the Department of Organic Chemistry

Math/Physics

Department of physics.

• Chemical Physics
• Medical Radiation Physics
• Theoretical Physics

Doctoral studies at the Department of Physics  

Department of Astronomy

Doctoral studies at the Department of Astronomy  

Department of Mathematics

• Computational Mathematics
• Mathematics
• Mathematical Statistics

Doctoral studies at the Department of Mathematics

Department of Meteorology

• Atmospheric Science and Oceanography

Doctoral studies at the Department of Meteorology

For a general study plan in any natural science subject, please contact  [email protected].

The graduation ceremony

Every year, over 200 PhD students defend their thesis at Stockholm Universit, and get a chance to celebrate their achievement at the Stockholm City Hall.

Opportunities abroad for PhD students

There are several ways to participate in international mobility experiences during your PhD studies.

Find possible exchange opportunities for PhD students here

Available PhD Student Positions

On the employee web portal PhD students will find more detailed information about the dissertation defence process .

Last updated: May 30, 2024

Source: Offices of Human Science and Science, Communications Office and Student Services

PhD programmes

When you apply for a phd programme in sweden, you’re actually applying for a job. yeah, you read that right. 👀.

“Do a master’s here – I’d say it’s a very good step to doing a PhD in Sweden. I did my master’s at Malmö University and now I’m doing a PhD at Lund University” – Sanjay, Malmö University. Photo: Oskar Omne

So that means – no tuition fees, no scholarships. But you’ll receive a monthly salary instead. Nice, eh? And that’s why available PhD positions are listed on a university’s job board.

How to apply for a PhD position? You’ll apply directly to the university.

Just so you know, there’s no centralised application process. And things like requirements and application dates? This kind of stuff is decided by each department. But we do know that you’ll need to have a master’s degree – in the same field of study – and a great level of English to apply for a PhD here. You might even need to be fluent in Swedish. But that’ll depend on the subject.

+ - Find a PhD at a Swedish university

• PhD at Blekinge Institute of Technology ↗️
• PhD at Chalmers University of Technology ↗️
• PhD at Dalarna University ↗️
• PhD at Halmstad University ↗️
• PhD at Jönköping University ↗️
• PhD at KTH Royal Institute of Technology ↗️
• PhD at Karlstad University ↗️
• PhD at Karolinska Institutet ↗️
• PhD at Konstfack ↗️
• PhD at Linköping University ↗️
• PhD at Linnaeus University ↗️
• PhD at Luleå University of Technology ↗️
• PhD at Lund University ↗️
• PhD at Malmö University ↗️
• PhD at Marie Cederschiöld University ↗️
• PhD at Mälardalen University ↗️
• PhD at SLU (Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences) ↗️
• PhD at Stockholm School of Economics ↗️
• PhD at Stockholm University ↗️
• PhD at Stockholm University of the Arts ↗️
• PhD at the Swedish Defence University ↗️
• PhD at Södertörn University ↗️
• PhD at Umeå University ↗️
• PhD at University College Stockholm ↗️
• PhD at University West ↗️
• PhD at University of Borås ↗️
• PhD at University of Gothenburg ↗️
• PhD at University of Gävle ↗️
• PhD at University of Skövde ↗️
• PhD at Uppsala University ↗️
• PhD at Örebro University ↗️

+ - Find other academic positions in Sweden

• University Positions ↗️
• Academic Positions ↗️
• EURAXESS academic positions in Europe ↗️

+ - Useful info about research

• CORDIS ↗️ – EU Research and Information Service
• EURAXESS information ↗️ – Portal for information and practical assistance for researchers moving to Sweden
• Formas ↗️ – The Swedish Research Council for Environment, Agricultural Sciences and Spatial Planning
• Swedish Council for Health, Working Life and Welfare ↗️
• Swedish Research Council ↗️
• Vinnova — Sweden’s Innovation Agency ↗️ – An organisation that integrates research and development in technology, transport and working life
• Handbook for International Researchers ↗️ – Stockholm University’s handbook for international researchers

• 👩🏽‍🎓 Beyond the master's: a PhD?
• Find a research position at a Swedish university ↗️

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Center for Molecular Protein Science, CMPS

Lund university, phd program at biophysical chemistry, eligibility.

The PhD program at the Department of Biophysical Chemistry is open to students with an undergraduate degree at the Master’s level from a Swedish or foreign university. Most of our Swedish PhD students have graduated from a 5-year “civilingenjör” curriculum in biotechnology (“bioteknik”), chemistry (“kemiteknik”),  or physics (“teknisk fysik”) and have taken one or more advanced (4th year) courses in physical chemistry, biophysical chemistry, statistical mechanics, or molecular biology. However, other degrees at a comparable level and with a similar focus may also be appropriate, for example, a Master’s degree (“fil mag” in the Swedish system) in chemistry at the science faculty.

Foreign students must possess the equivalent of a Master’s degree, with a chemistry, physics, or biophysics major, from a recognized university. We cannot admit students with a predominantly biological or biochemical educational background, unless this is supplemented with several university-level courses in mathematics (analysis, linear algebra) and physical chemistry (thermodynamics, statistical mechanics, molecular spectroscopy).

Proficiency in Swedish is not a requirement, but a good command of English is essential.

The normal means of financial support of PhD students is a PhD position awarded by the Department at the time of admission, but administered by the University. Formally, the student is employed by Lund University and receives a monthly salary (currently starting at about SEK 22 000). From this sum, about 35% tax is deducted. The monthly living cost in Sweden is about SEK 10 000 for a single student. Foreign students are entitled to the same national health insurance and other social benefits as Swedish citizens.

The PhD program corresponds to 240 ECTS credits, corresponding to four years full-time activity. The PhD position can be extended for a maximum of five years (four years plus one year’s salary for undergraduate teaching and/or departmental responsibilities).

Graduate courses

The PhD program at the Department of Biophysical Chemistry requires the student to take at least 60 ECTS credits of advanced graduate-level courses, corresponding to one year of full-time work. The student has considerable freedom in choosing the topics and the timing of these courses. However, it is advisable to complete most of the course work during the first three years of the program.

The courses should include 7.5 credits (from at least two courses) chosen from a group of general courses, such as information management, communication, science ethics, or data reduction and error analysis, as well as 15 credits (from at least two courses) of “hard-core” physical chemistry courses, such as statistical mechanics, intermolecular forces, quantum mechanics, nuclear magnetic resonance, or molecular spectroscopy. The remaining 37.5 credits may include bio-oriented courses, such as protein chemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, bioinformatics, or protein crystallography, or more physics-oriented courses, such as molecular kinetics, advanced NMR spectroscopy, or nuclear spin relaxation.

Relevant graduate-level courses completed prior to enrollment in our PhD program may, with the consent of the Research supervisor and the Department head, be counted towards the required 60 credits of course work.

Teaching and departmental responsibilities

Undergraduate teaching is an integral part of the PhD program that develops your communication skills and consolidates your understanding of physical chemistry. The Department offers basic physical chemistry courses, covering thermodynamics, intermolecular forces, and molecular kinetics, in three undergraduate programs. Advanced (4th year) courses are offered in biophysical chemistry and molecular spectroscopy (including quantum mechanics). The teaching responsibilities of PhD students usually involve supervision of laboratory exercises or problem-solving classes.

Most of our PhD students also engage in the supervision of various undergraduate research projects. In addition, each PhD student is responsible for a part of the Department’s infrastructure, such as instruments, computers, or lab areas. If these responsibilities are extensive, they may substitute for part of the teaching duties.

The Doctoral thesis is usually a collection of 4 – 6 original scientific papers, all of which have been, or will be, submitted for publication in international journals. This is preceded by a summary of the thesis research and some background material. Because most or all of the papers have already been subject to peer review, the Swedish PhD defence is essentially a formality, albeit still surrounded by a certain amount of ceremony and festivity. At the PhD defence, the thesis is publicly debated under the leadership of an external examiner. An examination board then grades the thesis: pass or (very rarely) fail. Recent PhD Theses from the Department of Biophysical Chemistry can be found here .

All essential steps in the admissions procedure are handled by the Department of Biophysical Chemistry, but certain formal matters are administered by the office of the Faculty of Engineering at Lund University (Lunds Tekniska Högskola, LTH).

The admissions procedure is directly linked to the award of PhD positions, which are advertised on the Lund University web page for vacant PhD positions, on the relevant research group's web page, and sometimes in newspapers as well. All PhD positions are awarded in open competition and applications are accepted only during a period (at least three weeks) following the advertisement. PhD positions can be advertised at any time of the year.

The formal application should contain your Curriculum Vitae and attested copies of degree certificates, academic records and other relevant documents. The selection among the applicants is made by the Department council and is then officially confirmed by the University.

Before a PhD position is advertised, we ensure that one or more of the research groups in the Department has the capacity to supervise an additional PhD student (the group leader is usually the principal supervisor of the PhD student) and the funds (usually from an external research grant) to cover a PhD scholarship for five years. An advertised PhD position is therefore often linked to a particular research group and to one or more, new or ongoing, research projects within that group.

We rarely advertise a PhD position unless we are assured that at least one highly qualified candidate will apply. The formal application is therefore preceded by an informal evaluation procedure. This procedure usually follows either of two tracks:

Track I: A student at Lund University elects to carry out his/her Master's thesis project (about 4 months) in one of the research groups in the Department and then wishes to continue as a PhD student.

Track II: An external (foreign or Swedish) student expresses interest in our PhD program. In this case, an opportunity must be created for the student to assess the merits of the research group and the Department and for the presumed research supervisor to assess the ability of the student to successfully complete the PhD program. This opportunity may take the form of a Master's thesis project or, if this has already been completed elsewhere, an employment (with full salary and travel expenses reimbursed) for a trial period (typically three months) of research work in the chosen research group. Upon a subsequent enrollment in the PhD program, the research work carried out during the “trial employment” may be counted towards the PhD. Before a student is invited for a “trial employment”, an assessment is made by the group leader based on the student’s academic record. For this purpose, you should submit your CV, academic transcripts, and a brief statement of career objectives. Foreign students should also explain the grading system, define the contents of courses, and, if available, provide their GRE and TOEFL scores.

Students interested in our PhD program are encouraged to consult the research group pages of this website and to communicate directly with the preferred group leader. In case you cannot, or do not wish to, choose among the groups at this stage, you should communicate with the Department head .

If you have already secured funding for five years, it may be possible to admit you to the PhD program without a formal application (linked to the PhD position). However, funding does not guarantee admission to the PhD program. The informal procedures of Track II still apply, in particular, the requirement of a “trial employment”.

Further information

Further information about PhD studies at the Faculty of Engineering at Lund University, including formal rules and regulations, is available (in Swedish) here .

Additional information (in English) about PhD studies at Lund University is available here .

Sidöversikt

Department of chemistry.

• Center for Analysis and Synthesis (CAS)
• Center for Applied Life Sciences (CALS)
• Center for Molecular Protein Science (CMPS)
• Center for Physical and Theoretical Chemistry

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Doctoral Studies

Do you want to do research in biology or environmental sciences? Then you should read more below.

What is included in a doctoral education?

Doctoral, or PhD., studies comprise 240 higher education credits, that is 4 years of full time studies. It ends with a doctoral degree (Doctor of philosophy, PhD). The actual research constitute three years (180 hec) while one year in total includes curses and literature etc. At the department, most PhD-students are also involved in teaching, at up to 20% of full time, so in reality the PhD-period is five years.

Although doctoral studies should be seen as a form of education, the setup differs a lot from our other courses and programs.  You will spend most of the time with practical and theoretical studies in a well defined research area. It gives you an opportunity to deepen your knowledge in theta subject, but perhaps more importantly, give you the tools to independently research questions and to critically analyse and evaluate the results.

Most of our PhD-students are part of a research group, and cooperation with other scientists and a fundamental part of the education.

Eligibility for PhD-studies

To be accepted as a PhD-student you must first apply for a doctoral position. There is no set date for these applications, but positions may advertised at any time of the year so you need to keep your eyes open. You find ads under Vacancies .

To e accepted you also need specialization within a relevant subject, and that you have fulfilled  course requirements equal to at least 240 higher education credits. You should also have finished a degree project at advanced level. As a PhD-student at the department you are usually accepted within the main subject Natural science specialising in either biology or environmental sciences, or within Mathematics/Natural Sciences, specialising in Educational Sciences

You may read more about subjects and specialisations as well as rules and guidelines,  at the Faculty of science pages about doctoral studies.

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Biotechnology - Master's Programme

Master's programme · 2 years · 120 credits

On this page :

Description

Biotechnology is a key enabling technology that offers strong innovation potential for the sustainable development of society. Research and development in biotechnology continue to improve processes and develop products that have profound impact on various sectors, such as healthcare and pharmaceuticals, agriculture, food and feed, environmental remediation, as well as production of chemicals and biofuels.

Lund University is among the leading universities in the world for research and education in biotechnology. It is home to several world-renowned scientists who have strong links to the industry – from large multinational companies to small enterprises based on research done in our departments.

The Master’s in Biotechnology is a broad programme covering scientific and technological aspects of biotechnology tools and processes for sustainable manufacturing of bioproducts, for biomedicine and environmental remediation. The students have the possibility to choose among courses oriented towards molecular biotechnology providing knowledge and skills in recombinant gene expression, engineering of proteins and metabolic pathways, and bioprocess development giving insights into fermentation- and enzyme technology, product recovery and analysis, and process and plant design.

To prepare our students for their final semester Master’s thesis, nearly all our courses include practical exercises. It is therefore recommended that students who apply to this programme have acquired laboratory skills during their Bachelor’s degree.

Full list of courses in this programme:  www.lth.se/english/study/tabit Please note that the Master’s programme in Biotechnology is currently undergoing some changes. For clarification of the programme structure please check the programme structure information box on this page. 

After completing this programme, you will

• Have a high level of general skills in the various aspects of biotechnology.
• Have improved your communication skills by way of discussions and by practising written and oral presentations.
• Be able to suggest process requirements for manufacturing of biotech products with regard to the production systems, development of biological catalysts, analytical tools, energy efficiency and sustainability.
• Have the ability to develop business ideas related to biotechnology products/processes.

Career prospects

Due to our close links with local and international industry, the programme is closely aligned to market needs, and there is a clear emphasis on the engineering aspects of biotechnology. During your studies, you will meet not only researchers at the departments but also guest lecturers from biotech companies working with, for example, product or process development and marketing. Your future job could be anywhere in the world – in a small start-up or a large multinational company, a government authority or a university. Our alumni move on to roles within research and development, process operations, product development and sales.

The programme also provides an excellent foundation for continuing your studies at PhD level.

Watch on YouTube: Study Engineering and Technology at Lund University

Programme sheets

Programme fact sheet (PDF - new window)

Closed for applications

Learn more about our application periods and when to apply for studies at Lund University. 

Chat with a student ambassador about this programme and student life at Lund University

Preliminary programme structure.

Learn more about research at the Faculty of Engineering

Programme Director

Rajni Hatti Kaul

Email : msc [dot] biotech [at] lth [dot] lu [dot] se

International Coordinator

Cecilia Nilsson

Requirements and selection

Entry requirements.

A Bachelor’s degree in biotechnology, biochemical engineering or equivalent. Completed courses in microbiology or biochemistry, and mathematics (linear algebra/calculus and statistics). English 6.

Selection criteria

The selection is based on academic qualifications and on a statement of purpose.

English language requirements

Most of Lund University’s programmes require English Level 6 (unless otherwise stated under 'Entry requirements'). This is the equivalent of an overall IELTS score of 6.5 or a TOEFL score of 90. There are several ways to prove your English language proficiency – check which proof is accepted at the University Admissions in Sweden website. All students must prove they meet English language requirements by the deadline, in order to be considered for admission.

How to prove your English proficiency – universityadmissions.se

Country-specific requirements

Check if there are any country-specific eligibility rules for you to study Bachelor's or Master's studies in Sweden:

Country-specific requirements for Bachelor's studies – universityadmissions.se

Country-specific requirements for Master's studies – universityadmissions.se

Start Autumn Semester 2024

Day-time Lund, full time 100%

Study period

2 September 2024 - 7 June 2026

Application

How to apply

Lund University uses a national application system run by University Admissions in Sweden. It is only possible to apply during the application periods.

When to apply for studies

Step 1: Apply online

• Check that you meet the  entry requirements of the programme or course you are interested in (refer to the section above on this webpage).
• Start your application – go to the University Admissions in Sweden website where you create an account and select programmes/courses during the application period. Visit the University Admissions in Sweden website
• Rank your programme/course choices in order of preference and submit them before the  application deadline .

Step 2: Submit documents

• Read about how to document your eligibility and how to submit your documents at the University Admissions in Sweden website. Follow any country-specific document rules for Master's studies or Bachelor's studies Country-specific requirements for Bachelor's studies – universityadmissions.se Country-specific requirements for Master's studies – universityadmissions.se  
• Get all your documents ready: - official transcripts and high school diploma (Bachelor's applicants) - official transcripts and degree certificate or proof that you are in the final year of your Bachelor's (Master's applicants) - passport/ID (all applicants) and - proof of English proficiency (all applicants).  
• Prepare  programme-specific documents  if stated in the next paragraph on this webpage.
• Upload or send  all  required documents to University Admissions before the  document deadline .
• Pay the application fee (if applicable – refer to the section below on this webpage) before the  document deadline .

* Note that the process is different if you are applying as an exchange student or as a part of a cooperation programme (such as Erasmus+). * If you have studied your entire Bachelor's programme in Sweden and all of your academic credits are in Ladok, you do not have to submit transcripts or your diploma when applying for a Master's programme.  However, there may still be other documents you need to submit! See the link below.  *  Svensk student?  Läs instruktionerna om att söka till ett internationellt masterprogram på lu.se

Programme-specific documents

In addition to the documents mentioned under Step 2, you must also submit the document 'Summary sheet and statement of purpose' when you apply to this programme. 

To do this you need to:

• Fill in our template.
• Save the template as a PDF.
• Upload the PDF to your account at universityadmissons.se.

Template for the summary sheet and statement of purpose in Biotechnology (PDF, 375 kB, new window)

No additional programme-specific documents (such as a CV or letters of recommendation) are required when you apply for this programme.

Watch on YouTube: How to apply for a Master's programme  

Tuition fees

Non-eu/eea citizens.

Full programme/course tuition fee: SEK 340 000

First payment: SEK 85 000

• Convert currency – xe.com

Citizens of a country outside of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland are required to pay tuition fees. You pay one instalment of the tuition fee in advance of each semester.

Tuition fees, payments and exemptions

EU/EEA citizens and Switzerland

There are no tuition fees for citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.

Application fee

If you are required to pay tuition fees, you are generally also required to pay an application fee of SEK 900 when you apply at the University Admissions in Sweden website. You pay one application fee regardless of how many programmes or courses you apply to.

• Paying your application fee – universityadmissions.se
• Exemptions from paying the application fee – universityadmissions.se

*Note that there are no tuition or application fees for exchange students or doctoral/PhD students, regardless of their nationality.

Scholarships & funding

Lund university global scholarship programme.

The Lund University Global Scholarship programme is a merit-based and selective scholarship targeted at top academic students from countries outside the EU/EEA.

Lund University Global Scholarship

Swedish Institute Scholarships

The Swedish Institute offers scholarships to international students applying for studies in Sweden at Master's level.

Scholarship information on the Swedish Institute website

Country-specific scholarships and funding options

Lund University has agreements with scholarship organisations and funding bodies in different countries, which may allow applicants to apply for funding or scholarships in their home countries for their studies at Lund University.

• Country-specific scholarships
• Canada student loans

External scholarships

Information about scholarships from external organisations

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Doctoral student in Biotechnology: Sweden

Lund University   offers a PhD student position in Biotechnology.

Biotechnology is of key importance for the transition to a sustainable society. Biotechnology research develops and exploits microorganisms or components of microorganisms to attain useful technological goals with environmentally sustainable methods. The areas of application include environmental biotechnology, industrial biotechnology and biotechnology in healthcare. The specialisations of the research studies subject are: i) microbial and enzymatic methods of producing chemicals, materials and energy carriers from renewable raw materials; ii) increased use of biorefineries through use/development of biotechnical methods/tools; iii) biotechnical methods of cleaning contaminated environments; iv) development of efficient microorganisms and enzymes through methods of molecular biology and enzyme technology as catalysts for these processes; v) insulation and use of microorganisms and enzymes from extreme environments; and vi) development of bioanalyses and biosensors for use within the healthcare, environment and processing sectors. The research includes both basic studies and direct applications within the area.

Work duties The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties will also teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%). This position is part of the project ProSeaFood (within Era-Net Sus-Food2). The project involves development of processing methods for the production of brown algae by enzymatic methods and fermentation techniques. The project is a collaboration between academia and industry.

Admission requirements

A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if he or she:

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, orhas satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, orhas acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad

A person meets the specific admission requirements for third cycle studies in Biotechnology if he or she has:

• at least 30 credits in the field of bioscience, including at least 15 second-cycle credits, and a second-cycle degree project of 30 credits in the field, oran MSc in engineering or a comparable second-cycle qualification, including elements of applied bioscience

Additional requirements:

• very good oral and written proficiency in English

Assessment criteria

• selection for third-cycle studies is based on the student’s potential to profit from such studies. The assessment of potential is made primarily on the basis of academic results from the first and second cycle

Special attention is paid to the following:

• knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project and the subject of study
• an assessment of ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems
• written and oral communication skills
• other experience relevant to the third-cycle studies, e.g. professional experience

Other assessment criteria:

• experience in working in research laboratories in the fields of separation of biomass, fractionation (especially marine macroalgae), carbohydrate analysis, and experience of microbial and enzymological work (especially in terms of thermophiles)
• consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through his or her experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programme

Terms of employment

Only those admitted to third cycle studies may be appointed to a doctoral studentship. Third cycle studies at LTH consist of full-time studies for 4 years. A doctoral studentship is a fixed-term employment of a maximum of 5 years (including 20% departmental duties). Doctoral studentships are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), chapter 5, 1-7 §§.

Instructions on how to apply

Applications shall be written in English and include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background. The application must also contain a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).

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• PhD Study in Sweden – A Guide for 2024

Written by Mark Bennett

A PhD in Sweden is an opportunity to study in a country that combines a historic higher education system with a culture of ingenuity and invention. The country’s universities date back to the fifteenth century, whilst Swedish brands and technologies such as Spotify, IKEA and Bluetooth continue to shape the modern world.

This covers what you need to know about PhD study in Sweden , including information on applications, funding opportunities and doctoral fees (spoiler: there aren’t any).

PhD opportunities in Sweden – what’s on offer for 2024?

If the goal for your doctorate is to produce original and potentially innovative work (it should be) then a PhD in Sweden may well be the ideal choice.

Like its Scandinavian neighbours, Sweden is also a highly tolerant country, with progressive and inclusive laws that support LGBT rights and welcome international students and visitors.

Here's some reasons to consider a PhD in Sweden for international students:

• Creativity and originality – You may not discover the next big music streaming solution (and even a PhD may not help you understand *that step* in those IKEA instructions) but your doctoral research will be right at home in a country that celebrates free-thinking and supports new ideas
• Prize-winning research - Sweden's status as the home of the Nobel Prize (with 34 winners) reflects its proud history of recognising and rewarding research, excellence and innovation
• No PhD fees – Swedish PhD programmes normally charge no tuition fees to their students (regardless of nationality)
• Historic (and respected) universities – Higher education in Sweden dates back to the 1400s and the country’s universities are well placed in modern rankings, with particular specialisms in Medicine, Life Sciences and related subjects

We’ve studiously avoided making any ABBA references in this section, but if you want a university to take a chance on your research proposal and eventually give you, give you, give you a PhD without charging much money, money, money for fees*. . . well, there are worse destinations to choose than Sweden.

*We're sorry.

Swedish universities

There are 39 state-funded universities and equivalent institutions in Sweden, alongside a smaller number of privately funded higher education providers.

Degrees are organised using a three-cycle system , in common with the wider European Higher Education Area . Your PhD in Sweden will be a third-cycle qualification , usually taking place after Bachelors (first cycle) and Masters (second cycle) study.

Universities and university colleges

Higher education providers in Sweden are divided into two types:

• Universities ( universitet ) are large institutions awarding degrees in a broad range of subjects. They carry out original research alongside academic teaching and therefore have the capacity to support and train PhD students.
• University colleges ( högskola ) focus on technical and professional training, often in applied sciences and related subjects. They are less likely to award PhDs but may do so in certain subject areas.

The distinction between these two categories isn’t always obvious or clear from an institution’s name (university colleges may simply refer to themselves as universities). The good news is that you don’t need to worry too much about it. As a PhD student you’re likely to end up studying at a university, but the smaller number of doctoral programmes offered by university colleges are equally rigorous and respected.

Swedish university rankings

Sweden is home to one of Europe’s top-performing higher education systems, at least so far as university rankings are concerned. Of the 38 universities in Sweden, 10 rank within the current Times Higher Education world top 400.

Do rankings matter for PhD study?

University rankings can help you choose a PhD project or programme, provided you know what to look at. Our guide explains how to use rankings as a prospective postgraduate.

PhD structure

A PhD in Sweden represents the highest level of academic achievement for students. As in other countries, the emphasis is on your independent research towards an original thesis that makes a new contribution to knowledge in your field.

Swedish doctoral degrees

Doctoral level study in Sweden takes one of two forms:

A standard PhD in Sweden requires a minimum of four years full-time work (equivalent to 240 ECTS credits ) and awards a full doctorate (along with the all-important title of ‘doctor’).

Alternatively, you may choose to study for a shorter licentiate degree. This generally only requires two years of full-time work towards a shorter and less ambitious thesis (equivalent to 120 ECTS credits ). The Swedish licentiate is similar to the Master of Philosophy (MPhil) offered in the UK or other countries and some students initially enrol for this qualification before upgrading to become full PhD candidates.

The academic year in Sweden runs from August to June with two teaching terms (August to January and January to June) separated by summer and winter holidays. As a PhD student you’ll normally work more flexibly throughout the year, but some additional courses and other activities may be linked to specific teaching periods.

Supervision

You’ll complete your PhD (or licentiate) with the support of two or more expert supervisors whose job it will be to guide your work. Their roles will vary slightly depending on your field:

• Supervisors for Arts , Humanities and some Social Science projects will serve primarily as mentors. They won’t be directly involved in your research, but they will be able to advise on the direction your project is taking.
• Supervisors for Science , Technology , Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) projects may also be carrying out similar research as the lead or principal investigator for the laboratory or research group your PhD is part of. This means they may also work alongside you or even collaborate on some experiments. However, your PhD thesis will still be an independent piece of work, based on your personal findings and analysis.

You’ll always have at least two PhD supervisors, one of whom will be the principal supervisor for your PhD. Some universities also appoint additional assistant supervisors with responsibility for specific tasks (such as training or pastoral care and support).

Your supervisors’ roles and expectations will be set by your university. As a minimum they’ll usually include arranging regular progress meetings, reviewing results and drafts and supporting you as you prepare to submit your thesis. Some additional responsibilities might include identifying and fulfilling training needs or assisting with other aspects of your professional and academic development.

PhD supervision

Our guides explain how to choose (and contact ) a PhD supervisor and introduce the working relationship you'll have with yours as a doctoral student.

Programme structure

Your main focus during a PhD in Sweden will be the original research required for your thesis. You’ll normally begin by assessing the scholarship in your subject (a literature review) before moving on to collecting sources or experimental data and eventually writing up your conclusions and results.

Some universities also offer more structured training alongside your research. This may involve attending short courses and / or attending short courses on research methods and other useful skills for your project.

It’s also common for PhD students at Swedish universities to serve as junior academic staff within their departments or faculties as part of their funding arrangements. If so, you’ll also have additional duties such as teaching or demonstrating.

Assessment and examinations

The assessment of a Swedish PhD is based on the quality of the doctoral thesis you submit at the end of your research. This needs to demonstrate that your work has been original, that it has made a significant contribution to your subject and that you have personally been responsible for designing and carrying out the research involved.

All of these qualities will be formally assessed during a final public defence of your thesis.

This is similar to the viva voce used in the UK and other countries but follows a slightly different procedure. Instead of being examined in private, you will present your thesis to an examining committee in front of an audience that may include other academics, fellow PhD students and your family and friends.

One of the committee will be an external expert (from outside your university) appointed to serve as your ‘opponent’. They will ask questions about your thesis and challenge you to explain your findings and conclusions. Other members of the committee (and audience) may also ask questions.

At the end of the examination your committee will decide whether or not you have successfully defended your thesis and can be awarded your PhD. This ‘live’ examination process may seem daunting, but you should think of it as an appropriate climax for your research, allowing you to assert your expertise and prove your qualification. It’s also quite rare for students to fail at this stage.

Masters study in Sweden

Looking to study a Masters in Sweden? We have all the information you need on our sister site, FindAMasters .

Fees and funding

There are no fees for PhD study in Sweden at state-funded universities (note that this doesn’t apply to Masters or Bachelors degrees). Doctoral programmes are free for EU, EEA and international (non EU) students.

The same applies to application fees – you don’t need to pay these for a PhD in Sweden.

You will need to cover your accommodation and living costs, but support may be available from your university to help with this.

Study grants

It’s common for PhD students in Sweden to also be recognised as staff, subject to an employment contract with their university. If applicable, this pays you to a salary known as a study grant ( utbildningsbidrag ) worth approximately €1,500 per month (but subject to tax).

Your employment status may vary during your PhD. For the first two years you will receive your study grant, but not be entitled to benefits and social security. For the final two years you will normally hold a full employment contract ( anställning ) and be entitled to support during illness, parental leave or other circumstances. More information will be available from your university.

In return for your study grant you will normally be required to carry out some responsibilities within your department, such as teaching undergraduates or assisting with administrative work.

PhD funding

Other scholarships and bursaries for PhD study in Sweden may also be available to help top up (or substitute for) a study grant.

The main source of PhD funding for international students in Sweden is the Swedish Institute (SI). They offer scholarships for students from specific regions including Turkey, the Balkans and the Baltic. More information is available on the official Study in Sweden website.

Other funding may be available from universities in Sweden, or from specific academic organisations and research charities relevant to your subject area. Our guides provide information on a range of PhD scholarships and other funding options .

Applying for a PhD in Sweden

You should apply directly to universities for PhD study in Sweden. How you do so will depend on the kind of project you are interested in:

• PhDs in Science , Technology , Engineering and Mathematics will often be advertised as specific projects. You should view current opportunities and apply according to the guidelines set by specific adverts. This will often mean submitting a personal statement along with your academic CV and references .
• Students in Arts , Humanities and Social Sciences are more likely to put forward their own project ideas. You’ll need to submit a strong research proposal , perhaps after contacting a potential supervisor for guidance and advice.

However you apply, make sure you check the specific requirements and procedure with your university.

Admissions requirements

Swedish universities are free to set their own entry requirements for PhD study . The minimum qualification will usually be a Bachelors degree in an appropriate subject, but a Masters is also desirable – particularly if you’re applying for funding.

Just as important as your previous qualifications will be your ability to demonstrate previous research experience . This could simply be the dissertation project for one or both of your previous degrees, but it’s important that you can show some preparation for the independent research you’ll be doing on your PhD.

The general eligibility criteria for PhD applications in Sweden is similar to most other countries in the EU.

Language requirements

A large proportion of teaching at Swedish universities takes place in English. This means you won’t necessarily need to know Swedish to study abroad in Sweden, but it’s worth checking with the specific university or department you plan to study within. Even if English isn’t required, picking up some language skills will help you settle in and enjoy your degree.

If English isn’t your first language you may need to submit a recognised test score . Exceptions might be made if you’ve completed a previous university degree taught in English.

Your university may invite you for an interview as part of the admissions process (in person, or online). This is a good sign! It means your application is suitably interesting and impressive and the university wants to hear more from you.

Student visas

Visa information for uk students in sweden.

UK students will no longer be EU citizens from the 2021-22 academic year onwards. This means you may be considered as an international student when studying in Sweden. You may be subject to different visa requirements and fee rates, unless otherwise stated.

You won’t need a visa to study in Sweden as a PhD student (student visas are required for visits of less than three months, but your PhD is guaranteed to take longer than this!).

EU, EEA and Nordic students

If you’re a citizen of an EU, EEA or Nordic country (a group that includes Finland, Denmark, Iceland and Norway as well as Sweden) you won’t need a residence permit to live in Sweden during your PhD. However, you will need to register with a local branch of the Swedish Tax Agency ( Skatteverket ).

You’ll need to bring your passport plus any marriage or birth certificates (if you are married and / or have children). You’ll also need to bring proof of admission to a Swedish university and a signed declaration that you have sufficient funds to live on during your PhD (the minimum requirement is €826 per month ).

Other international students

Students from countries outside the EU, EEA and Nordic group must formally apply for a residence permit in order to study in Sweden for longer than three months.

You can do this online. You’ll need to provide copies of your passport, along with proof that you have been admitted to a Swedish university, have paid the first instalment of your tuition fees and can support yourself financially during your PhD the minimum requirement is €826 per month ).

Health insurance

All students in Sweden will need full health insurance. If you already hold a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) you will normally be automatically covered. Alternatively, your university may provide cover as part of your study grant, or offer an affordable policy for you to purchase.

Sweden is a multicultural and inclusive country with plenty of opportunities for talented PhD graduates to apply their skills and expertise. Who knows – your work could be part of the next great Swedish innovation.

Can I work in Sweden after my PhD?

EU, EEA and Nordic students can live and work in Sweden without restriction. Other international students will need to apply for a post-study residence permit , allowing you to stay in Sweden for another six months as you look for work. To obtain this you’ll need to have completed your degree, still be in Sweden and hold a valid passport.

If you are successful in finding a job within six months, you can go on toapply for a work permit. Further information is available from the Swedish Migration Office .

Find a PhD in Sweden

Ready to start browsing some current PhD opportunities in Sweden ? Alternatively, you can look at our other guides to PhD study abroad .

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Interested in studying your PhD in Sweden? In this guide we've collected some of the global university rankings to help you decide the best university to study at in Sweden.

What's it like to live in Sweden during a PhD? Our guide covers accommodation, student living costs, working and other key information.

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Entry requirements for doctoral studies

In order to be accepted for doctoral (PhD) studies, the applicant is required to meet the general entry requirements and any special requirements outlined in the position announcement. The applicant must also possess any other abilities required in order to benefit from the education.

General entry requirements

The general entry requirements are met by those who

• have been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• have satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second-cycle or
• otherwise acquired largely equivalent knowledge.

KTH may exempt an individual applicant from the general entry requirements if there is an extraordinary reason to do so.

Specific entry requirements

 The specific requirements may relate to:

• knowledge from higher education or equivalent studies
• special professional or vocational experience
• necessary language skills or other conditions determined by the programme, subject or project

Language requirements

English language proficiency equivalent to (the Swedish upper secondary school) English course B/6 is required. The requirement can be satisfied through a result equal to, or higher than, those stated in the following internationally recognised English tests:

• TOEFL Paper-based: Score of 4.5 (scale 1-6) in written test, total score of 575. TOEFL ITP is not accepted.
• TOEFL iBT internet-based: Score of 20 (scale 0-30) in written test, total score of 90
• IELTS Academic/IELTS UKVI: A minimum overall mark of 6.5, with no section lower than 5.5
• Cambridge ESOL: Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) Certificate in Advanced English or Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE) (Certificate of Proficiency in English)
• Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB): Minimum score of 90
• University of Michigan, ECPE (Examination for the certificate of Proficiency in English)
• Pearson PTE Academic: Score of 62 (writing 61)

The language requirement can also be fulfilled through previous university and upper secondary school studies. More information on recognised English tests, previous studies, and required documents is provided by University Admissions in Sweden  under information for Master's level.

 Requirements regarding skills in the Swedish language may also be imposed.

Assessment of entry requirements

Entry requirements and prospective students' suitability are assessed at each school by the school's director of third-cycle education.

Foreign Higher Education studies

In most cases, studies that meet the general entry requirements for doctoral (PhD/third-cycle) education in the country where the degree is issued will also meet the general entry requirements for doctoral studies at KTH. If you are unsure about the status of your education, you may contact the Swedish Council for Higher Education  for an evaluation.

Assessment of equivalence

The assessment of equivalence determines whether an applicant's knowledge – acquired in another system – is equivalent to the higher education studies that are normally required for the doctoral subject in question.

Exemption from the general entry requirements

An exemption from the general entry requirements may be granted to an applicant who has not completed courses corresponding to 240 credits but who has already completed advanced (master's/second-cycle) courses corresponding to a minimum of 60 credits, as well as an independent degree project linked to the intended subject of study.

Assessment of suitability

Applicants are judged suitable for doctoral education if they possess the necessary maturity, judgement and capacity for independent critical analysis.

Candidate(s) will be selected from among the applicants who fulfil the requirements for doctoral education. The results of studies at an advanced (master's) level or in the form of independent work are of particular interest in this context, as is the candidate's ability to benefit from the studies (suitability).

The selection process is handled by each school and the final decision is made by the head of school, in consultation with the intended supervisor(s).

The admission process is conducted at the school-level.

Doctoral studies may lead to two qualifications, a licentiate and/or a doctoral degree. Those accepted to studies leading to a doctoral degree may take a licentiate degree as an intermediate stage in their studies. Students accepted to studies leading to a licentiate degree who subsequently wish to pursue studies leading to a doctoral degree must submit a new application and are not guaranteed admission.

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Doctoral programme in Plant Science

Within the Department of Plant Physiology, the aim of our graduate program is to provide PhD education of the highest international standard, with a focus on both scientific and personal development. We have normally between 15 - 20 PhD students from many different countries around the world, offering students a diverse and stimulating environment in which to undertake their studies.

Our PhD program gives graduate students the opportunity to undertake basic research in plant physiology, plant molecular biology, functional genomics and bioinformatics, and plant biotechnology. Courses, workshops and seminar series are offered in which graduate students are integrated into an interactive scientific environment.

The department is made up of 15 research groups all lead by an individual principle investigator who run research programs on topics ranging from studies of how plants respond at the whole plant and ecosystem level to changes in climatic factors (e.g. cold and drought) and biotic stresses (e.g. herbivory by insects), down to studies designed to understand how plants sense changes in their environment through changes in light or circadian rhythms, how cellular activity is regulated via intracellular signaling mechanisms, and how wood is formed in forest trees.

These diverse research programs provide students with the opportunity to undertake challenging research projects and to learn and utilize the full range of advanced modern research methodologies.

Read more about research in the Department of Plant Physiology.

Genetic variation in spruce does not differ significantly between cultivated and old forest in Västerbotten.

General syllabus

Plant Science

Computational Science and Engineering

Director of PhD studies

300 doctoral students in over 30 subjects

High-quality research is carried out at Linnaeus University, focusing on everything from health, social work, and the behavioral sciences, to the humanities, social sciences, economics, design, the natural sciences, and engineering and technology

The research is carried out either as specialisation research within a faculty, or through interdisciplinary research across faculty boundaries. In many subjects, research is also carried out with a didactic or educational specialisation. Research training is offered within all faculties and leads to a licentiate or doctoral degree. Approximately 300 doctoral students are active in 32 different subjects, several of which have a didactic or educational science specialisation.

Linnaeus University provides research training characterised by good conditions, a committed supervisory team, and well-established national and international networks. 

Holders of doctoral degrees from Linnaeus University have pursued research together with supervisors and other doctoral students in high-quality research environments, and are used to working in teams and to presenting their research in many different contexts.

Research training is the foundation for a career as a researcher and teacher at a university, or as a researcher in the industry. This type of training can also often lead to other exciting jobs.

Courses at third-cycle level

Linnaeus University offers a number of different courses at third-cycle level within our subjects. Some of these are open to doctoral students at other universities, while others are open only to doctoral students at the faculty or subject itself. In the lists below, which are not complete yet, you will find those of our courses that have their own pages.

General courses

These courses are relevant for and open for doctoral students at all faculties at Linnaeus University. They follow the criteria decided by the vice-chancellor for university general courses within third-cycle studies.

• Not decided
• Postgraduate level
• Autumn 2024
• Växjö

Courses at the School of Business and Economics

Faculty level.

• Spring 2024
• Full time studies

Business administration

• Full time studie
• not specified

Courses at the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences

• 13 Nov, 2023 – 26 Jan, 2024

Health science

• Autumn 2023

Courses at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities

• Not decided yet.

Courses at the Faculty of Social Sciences

• Växjö or Kalmar
• Spring 2025

Social work

Sport science.

• October 2023
• Not decided.

Courses at the Faculty of Technology

• 2024-09-02 – 2024-10-04
• Full-time studies

Building technology

• The course runs once a year in LP 4 if the number of participants is more than 3 students
• One semester course

Energy and environmental technology

• 2024-08-15 - 2024-12-15
• Not yet determined
• Not determined

Computer and information science

• On average 10-12 hours study per week over 1 study period
• On average 8 hours of study per week during the study period

Mathematics education

• Autumn 2025

Courses in collaboration with other higher education institutions

In collaboration, courses at other higher education institutions.

PhD courses within the collaboration Universities in South Sweden (Lärosäten syd):

• Blekinge Institute of Technology
• Halmstad University
• Kristianstad University (in Swedish)
• Malmö University
• Lund University (Faculty of Social Sciences)
• Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU)

PhD courses at other higher education institutions:

• Dalarna University
• Jönköping University
• Karlstad University
• Karolinska Institutet
• Linköping University
• Luleå University of Technology
• Mid Sweden University (Swedish page)
• Mälardalen University
• Stockholm University (Faculty of Social Sciences; Swedish page)
• University of Borås
• University of Gothenburg
• University West
• Örebro University

Admittance to PhD studies

To be admitted to PhD studies in a third-cycle subject area there are some requirements which have to be fulfilled. These requirements concern the applicant as well as the faculty hosting the subject area.

These are the basic areas of requirements: 

Eligibility requirements

Basic entry requirements.

Students at third-cycle level must have completed first and second-cycle degrees, either in Sweden or abroad, or have equivalent qualifications. To meet the basic entry requirements for PhD programmes, applicants must have a second-cycle degree or have completed studies comprising at least 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 credits were awarded at second-cycle level, or have completed a corresponding programme in another country or have equivalent qualifications.

Specific entry requirements

Specific entry requirements vary from subject to subject. These requirements must be considered essential for a student to be able to complete the programme. Often these requirements stipulate knowledge acquired in higher education but specific vocational experience may also be required. The specific entry requirements are listed in the general syllabus of the subject area.

Apart from fulfilling the general and specific entry requirements for admission to PhD programmes, the applicant is required to have the ability required to benefit from the study programme. This includes an evaluation of the applicant's ability to finish the programme within four years of full-time studies (or equivalent if the studies are not performed full-time) for a doctoral degree, or two years for a licentiate degree.

The ability is usually evaluated based on the essays/theses from first- and second-cycle studies, the proposed research plan, scientific publications, and the results of interviews. The combination of subjects taken during first- and second-cycle studies may be important and is sometimes taken into account. Assessment and selection criteria are stated in the general syllabus of the subject. Any additional requirements will be listed in the job advertisement.

Funding doctoral education

Third-cycle studies at Linnaeus University shall be funded primarily through doctoral studentships. Students with any other forms of funding may be admitted to third-cycle studies if the responsible body deems the financial means to be in place for the applicant. Such forms of funding include: funding from an employer other than Linnaeus University; research scholarships; funds especially allocated for lecturers; and self-funding.

If an applicant wishes to be admitted with another form of funding than an internally funded doctoral studentship, the feasibility of the funding plan must be assessed.

Below you will find more information about the process of applying for doctoral student positions or enquire about other forms of funding. 

In order to admit a doctoral student, the faculty must provide the necessary resources. The faculty needs to provide supervisors, examiner, work space for the doctoral student, as well as other necessary resources. If these are not available, admission is not possible. 

How to apply for a doctoral position

Most doctoral student positions (PhD's) at Linnaeus University are officially announced through the Linnaeus University job vacancy page. The application process differs depending on if the doctoral position is officially announced or not.

Applying for announced doctoral positions

If you are interested in PhD studies at Linnaeus University you should check out the vacant job listings. Available doctoral studentships (employment as a doctoral student) are posted at Work at the university. Check for vacant jobs at the university

These studentships will finance your studies for an equivalent of four years full-time studies for a doctoral degree or two years full-time studies for a licentiate degree, and during this time you will be employed by the university. You are not allowed to be employed on a studentship for less than 50% of full-time studies.

When you apply for a doctoral studentship, you are also applying for admittance to PhD studies in a third-cycle subject area. There will be two decisions made in this process: one concerning admittance (which will take place first) and one concerning employment/doctoral studentship. In the job advertisement you will find information on what to include in your application, the application deadline, and whom to contact if you have questions. The applicants' eligibility and ability are assessed, and if there are more applicants than available positions, they will be placed in order of preference, according to an assessment of the applicants' qualifications and abilities. The decision making process follows the rules and regulations of the third-cycle education. After the decision on admission has been made, the decision-making process of the doctoral studentship is immediately initiated. All the applicants will receive information about the decisions as soon as the decision on the doctoral studentship has been taken.

Applying with another form of funding

If you have another form of funding for your PhD studies (for example scholarship, external funding from an institute that finances research and PhD studies, or another kind of funding) you should contact the faculty which is responsible for the subject area in which you are interested. They can give you an idea of whether your financial plan is acceptable or not. They can also inform you if they have other resources available that are fundamental for admission, and give you details about the admission process. Ask for the research officer of the faculty in charge.

Other information

Rights and obligations.

The faculty in which the doctoral student is placed is responsible for providing the programme described in the general syllabus of the subject area and in the student's individual study plan. The doctoral student is obliged to follow the programme as described in the general syllabus and in the individual study plan. You can read more about rights and obligations in Linnaeus University's Local regulations for third-cycle courses and study programmes .

International opportunities for doctoral students

As a doctoral student, you have plenty of opportunities to get international experience. You can, for instance, take courses, participate at conferences, gather data for your studies or be part of a research group abroad. International experiences contribute to increased competitiveness on the global market and can open new doors and present you with new research opportunities.

Read more about international opportunities for doctoral students .

• 11 June 2024
• 17 April 2024
• 28 March 2024
• 10 September 2024 12:00 PM 1:00 PM Seminar for doctoral students How to reach out with your research
• 17 September 2024 All day CONFERENCE SERIES: SUSTAINABLE BUILDING WITH WOOD Competitive wood-based materials and timber structures
• 26 Sep 2024 27 Sep 2024 All day Conference Big Data Conference 2024
• 13 November 2024 12:00 PM 1:00 PM Seminar for doctoral students Managing research data
• 14 May 2025 16 May 2025 All day Conference Save the date - Nordic Conference on Legal Method

9 plant-biotechnology-phd PhD positions in Sweden

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PhD student in Plant Biotechnology

. As an integral part of the activities, the department also run two public plant breeding programs in apples and potatoes. We are now looking for a PhD student to the Division of Plant Biotechnology

PhD in Plant - Microbe interaction

completed or in the process of completion of higher university degree (master of science) in biology, plant breeding , biotechnology , horticulture, or agronomy, emphasizing plant pathology , mycology

PhD student in Spider Silk Protein Biochemistry

will be part of an excellent team of several PhD students, Postdocs and Researchers working on different projects related to biotechnological methods for producing recombinant silk proteins

Industry and collaboration PhD student in forest microbiology

for an industry/collaboration-based PhD student in forest microbiology. The doctoral studies will be performed at the Department of Forest Mycology and Plant Pathology at SLU in Uppsala. The employment will be with

PhD in Sustainable biohybrid living materials and devices

respond to physical or chemical stimuli.  The research has interdisciplinary character including material-device characterization, biochemistry and plant biology . The PhD student will work closely with

Senior Researcher with focus on marine microbial environmental genomics

applicant has a PhD in molecular biotechnology , microbiology, biogeochemistry, bioinformatics, or an equivalent discipline. Furthermore, the candidate is expected to have published articles of high quality

PhD student within Multi-Modal Modeling of Spatial Biology Data (DDLS Research School)

of life science is data-driven. Will you be part of that change? Then join us in this unique program! Project description Third-cycle subject: Biotechnology At KTH Royal Institute of Technology/SciLifeLab

PhD student position in New seafood products from underutilized sources

. Qualifications To qualify as a PhD student, the applicant must hold an MSc degree in Biotechnology , Chemistry, Bioscience, Food Science, Food technology, Biochemical engineering, Biochemistry or similar. Fluent

PhD student position in Seaweed valorization for high quality products

To qualify as a PhD student, the applicant must hold an MSc degree in Biotechnology , Chemistry, Bioscience, Food Science, Food technology, Biochemical engineering, Biochemistry or similar. Fluent English in

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5 Universities in Sweden offering Biotechnology degrees and courses

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Are you looking for Biotechnology courses? Here you can find course providers offering full-time, part-time, online or distance learning options.

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KTH Royal Institute of Technology

THE World Ranking: 97

University of Borås

Chalmers university of technology.

THE World Ranking: 189

Uppsala University

THE World Ranking: 140

Lund University

THE World Ranking: 106

There are more Biotechnology courses available in Europe

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21 PhD jobs in Sweden

Find PhD jobs in Sweden here. To have jobs sent to you the day they're posted, sign up for job alerts.

• PhD positions in Stockholm (10)
• PhD positions in Gothenburg (2)
• PhD positions in Karlstad (2)
• PhD positions in Örebro (2)
• PhD positions in Jönköping (1)
• PhD positions in Lund (1)
• PhD positions in Malmo (1)
• PhD positions in Linköping (1)
• PhD positions in Huddinge (1)

Other countries

• PhD positions in Belgium (146)
• PhD positions in The Netherlands (117)
• PhD positions in Germany (55)
• PhD positions in Switzerland (52)
• PhD positions in Finland (40)
• PhD positions in Luxembourg (26)
• PhD positions in Austria (24)
• PhD positions in Norway (18)
• PhD positions in France (15)
• PhD positions in Israel (5)

Search results (21)

Doctoral student in Political Science

Sapere Aude—dare to be wise—is our motto. Our students and employees develop knowledge and expertise that enrich both people and the world around them. Our academic environment is characterised by ...

Doctoral student in Political Science (psychological defense and disinfo.)

One doctoral studentship in Media and Communication Studies within the research area of Critical and Cultural Theory, affiliated with the Baltic and East European Graduate School (BEEGS)

Södertörn University is a higher education institution in Stockholm that conducts education, research and collaboration with the surrounding community for sustainable societal development. Education and research are conducted in the humanities, so...

Doctoral Student in Atmospheric Science at the University of Gothenburg (MSCA COFUND project PRISMAS)

Reference number PAR 2024/690The University of Gothenburg tackles society’s challenges with diverse knowledge. 56 000 students and 6 600 employees make the university a large and inspiring place to work and study. Strong research and attractive st...

PhD students in Materials Engineering

Reference number IEI-2024-00437We have the power of over 40,000 students and co-workers. Students who provide hope for the future. Co-workers who contribute to Linköping University meeting the challenges of the day. Our fundamental values rest on ...

PhD project on Interactions of water with lipid-based drug delivery systems

Reference number P 2024/1233Malmö University is an innovative, urban, and internationally-oriented academic institution that, thanks to its committed and experienced staff, contributes to societal development. Here, teachers, researchers, and othe...

Doctoral (PhD) student position in Functional Genomics/Regulatory Transcriptomics

Do you want to contribute to top quality medical research? To be a doctoral student means to devote oneself to a research project under supervision of experienced researchers and following an indiv...

PhD Student in Generative Modelling of Conversational Dynamics

Project descriptionThird-cycle subject: Computer ScienceThis project aims to create generative models of spoken conversation that enable speaking machines to adapt their conversation style over tim...

PhD Student in Physics

The University of Gothenburg tackles society’s challenges with diverse knowledge. 56 000 students and 6 600 employees make the university a large and inspiring place to work and study. Strong research and attractive study programmes attract resear...

Doctoral student in protein design

Project descriptionThird-cycle subject: Chemical science and engineeringSyrén's research group is recruiting a PhD student in protein design. The project, which is funded by SSF, involves research ...

Doctoral student in Underwater Robotics and Machine Learning

Project descriptionThird-cycle subject:  Computer Science The project involves the use of multiple autonomous underwater vehicles to inspect and monitor an area quickly.  The use of machine learnin...

Doctoral student metallurgy of recycling of steels

Project descriptionThird-cycle subject: Materials Science EngineeringA project funded by Horizon Europe “Metallic Elements Dissipation Avoided by Life cycle design for Steel” (MEDALS) aims to incre...

Doctoral student in concrete materials

Project descriptionThird-cycle subject: Civil and Architectural Engineering, with specialization in Concrete Structures.Your main task is researching concrete material, especially on the properties...

Doctoral student in Multimodal AI for Human-Robot Interaction

Project descriptionThird-cycle subject: Computer ScienceWe are looking for a motivated PhD student for the WASP WARA Media and Language project "BELLA: Building Expressive Language for Likeable Age...

Doctoral student in Computer Science (Robotic Lab Automation for Handling Powdered and Granular Materials)

Reference number ORU 2.1.1-04624/2024Örebro University and the School of Science and Technology are looking for a doctoral student for the doctoral program in computer science, concluding with a doctoral degree (PhD. in Computer Science).Start dat...

Doctoral (PhD) student position in Epigenetics of inflammatory type 2 diabetes

PRISMAS Project: PhD Research and Innovation in Synchrotron Methods and Applications in Sweden

Are you the next PRISMAS student?PRISMAS – PhD Research and Innovation in Synchrotron Methods and Applications in Sweden – is a new doctoral programme training the next generation of leading synchrotron experts.The program will train 40 curious, p...

Doctoral student in light-controllable fluorescent proteins in microscopy

Project descriptionThird-cycle subject: Biological Physics We are looking for a motivated student interested in biophysics and live-cell imaging to join the Advanced Optical Bio-Imaging Laboratory ...

Phd students in System Security, Formal Verification and Machine Learning

Project descriptionThird-cycle subject: Computer scienceWe invite highly motivated students with a strong background in system security, formal verification, and/or machine learning to apply for tw...

Doctoral student in Production Systems

Are you passionate about sustainability and eager to make a real impact? Join our team as doctoral student in the research project ReShare (Shared Understanding and Requirements Management for Gree...

Doctoral student in Culinary Arts and Meal Science

Reference number ORU 2.1.1-04837/2024Örebro University and the School of Hospitality, Culinary Arts and Meal Science are looking for a doctoral student for the doctoral programme in Culinary Arts and Meal Science, concluding with a doctoral degree...

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Top 10 Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations 2024

Most leading CDMOs are reporting revenue growth, but according to the CEO of one of these companies, near-term challenges include declining drug discovery activity

By Alex Philippidis

This year, GEN ’s list of top 10 contract development and manufacturing organizations is led by Lonza, which works across five continents and relies on a global community of around 18,000 colleagues to help pharma, biotech, and nutrition companies bring their products to market. In this image, Lonza technicians at the company’s Visp, Switzerland, facility oversee a bioconjugates production process. [Lonza]

During a recent quarterly earnings call, the head of one of the busiest contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs) warned that in the coming months, biopharma companies will probably cut drug discovery activity. “The lack of a recovery in demand for our biotech clients as well as recently emerging and softening demand trends in our global biopharma client base have caused us to take a much more negative view of our growth prospects for the second half of the year,” said James C. Foster, chairman, president, and CEO of Charles River Laboratories. (Note: Charles River appears in a “ companies to watch ” sidebar that accompanies the online version of this article. The company does not indicate how much revenue from its Manufacturing Solutions segment reflects CDMO activity, confounding GEN ’s Top 10 ranking scheme.)

Foster also noted that most global biopharma companies have restructuring programs, which are “likely precipitated by the Inflation Reduction Act or pending patent expirations or both.” Essentially, companies are tightening their budgets and pruning their pipelines.

“Revenue for this client base continued to increase in the second quarter; however, proposal activity and bookings began to notably decline and diverge from biotech clients during the second quarter,” Foster explained. “Because of this, the second half revenue growth that we previously anticipated will not materialize. And in fact, demand is expected to continue to soften for global biopharmaceutical clients in the near term.

“We expect that these actions and the resulting softening of our demand key performance indicators will continue to cause a period of slower spending by large pharma companies on their early-stage drug development activities, particularly because they are more focused on their clinical pipelines at this time. This is a pretty unexpected and rapid deterioration of the large pharma companies’ business.”

That downturn was not apparent last year , as seven of the companies ranked among GEN ’s top 10 CDMOs grew revenue (two saw declines; one stayed flat). The combined 2023 revenue of the top 10 CDMOs rose 7% from 2022, climbing from $28.22 billion to $30.237 billion.

Indeed, a more optimistic forecast for CDMOs emerged July 29 from a survey by Jefferies of 25 biopharma clients of CDMOs. The survey showed growing demand for emerging modalities (including peptides, antibody-drug conjugates, radioligands, oligonucleotides, and cell and gene therapies) and identified two “headwinds” (or challenges to companies planning CDMO activity): raising financing and navigating regulatory delays.

Another finding from the survey concerned the proposed BIOSECURE Act (U.S. House of Representatives bill H.R. 7085 ; U.S. Senate bill S. 3558 ), which would restrict the U.S. activity of five Chinese biotech companies on national security grounds. The act is expected to drive more business to CDMOs outside China. Finally, the Jeffries team, led by James Vane-Tempest, Head of European Healthcare Research, noted that Lonza “is a clear potential industry winner.”

But without further ado, here is this year’s Top 10 A-List of CDMOs. The companies are ranked by 2023 revenues, as disclosed by the companies in regulatory filings or in responses to GEN ’s queries. Several of the CDMOs also furnished quarterly or half-year revenues for 2024.

1. Lonza Group Basel, Switzerland CHF 6.717 billion ($7.73 billion)

•  Appointed Wolfgang Wienand, PhD, as CEO effective July 1.
•  Finished H1 2024 with core earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization of CHF 893 million ($1.028 billion), down 3% from CHF 922 million ($1.066 billion), on revenue of CHF 3.057 billion ($3.519 billion), down 0.7% from CHF 3.078 billion ($3.558 billion) in H1 2023
•  Agreed in March to acquire Genentech’s large-scale biologics manufacturing site in Vacaville, CA for $1.2 billion from Genentech’s parent, Roche.

2.Thermo Fisher Scientific Waltham, MA $6.967 billion 1

•  Finished Q2 2024 with net income of $1.553 billion, up 14% from Q2 2023, on revenue that dipped 1.4% year over year, to $10.541 billion.
•  Completed $3.1 billion acquisition of Olink Holding in July. The deal added Uppsala, Sweden-based Olink’s proteomics platform to the buyer’s offerings.
•  Introduced the Gibco CTS OpTmizer One Serum-Free Medium, which is designed to support cell therapy manufacturing.

3. Catalent Somerset, NJ $4.135 billion 2

•  Awaiting completion of $16.5 billion acquisition by Novo Holdings, the asset manager of the foundation that controls Novo Nordisk. Novo Holdings will sell three Catalent fill-finish sites to Novo Nordisk for $11 billion upfront.
•  Completed expansion of clinical supply facility in Schorndorf, Germany, increasing the site’s footprint by 32,000 square feet.

4. Samsung Biologics Incheon, South Korea KRW 3.695 trillion ($2.695 billion)

•  Disclosed July 2 that it signed a KRW 1.464 trillion ($1.068 billion) biologics CDMO contract with a U.S.-based pharma company.
•  Ended Q2 with operating profit of KRW 329.2 billion ($240.1 million), up 48% from a year ago, on KRW 810.2 billion ($591 million) in revenues, up 27% from Q2 2023, on a standalone basis.
•  Agreed with Seoul National University to offer top-performing undergraduates master’s scholarships and opportunities to work at the company.

5. WuXi Biologics Wuxi, China RMB 17.034 billion ($2.373 billion)

•  One of the Chinese biotech companies that will have its U.S. activities restricted if the BIOSECURE Act becomes law. The U.S. accounts for 62% of company sales.
•  Entered into a three-year, multitarget strategic partnership with Medigene to design and co-research T-cell-receptor-guided T-Cell Engagers.
•  Installed three sets of 5,000 L single-use bioreactors in the second drug substance line at its MFG20 drug substance manufacturing facility in Hangzhou, increasing total capacity to 23,000 L.

6. Siegfried Zofingen, Switzerland CHF 1.272 billion ($1.463 billion)

•  Appointed Marcel Imwinkelried as CEO effective September 1.
•  Completed the acquisition of an early-phase CDMO site in Grafton, WI, from Curia Global, strengthening Siegfried’s capabilities and geographical coverage in drug substances.

7. Recipharm Stockholm, Sweden €1.321 million ($1.442 billion)

•  Sold to U.S.-based Blue Wolf Capital Partners seven sites (five sites in Sweden, one in France, and one in Spain). The deal is expected to close in Q4, subject to regulatory approvals.
•  Spun out former Advanced Delivery Systems Business Unit to form a new standalone company, Bespak, focused on drug-device combination products and drug delivery devices for pulmonary and nasal inhalation. Bespak has two U.K sites and one U.S. site (an early-stage laboratory in Research Triangle Park, NC).

8. Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies/Fujifilm College Station, TX/Tokyo, Japan ¥203.4 billion ($1.376 billion) 3

•  Investing an additional $1.2 billion into a facility that is being built in Holly Springs, NC, adding eight 20,000 L mammalian cell culture bioreactors by 2028 to the eight 20,000 L bioreactors planned for the initial $2 billion project.
•  Completing a DKK 11 billion ($1.609 billion) expansion of its facility in Hillerød, Denmark, making it the largest end-to-end CDMO in Europe and creating 450 new jobs.
•  Eliminated 240 jobs in College Station, TX; Raleigh, NC; Watertown, MA; and Teesside, U.K., citing decreased activity in its small-scale unit.

9. Boehringer Ingelheim Ingelheim, Germany €1.091 million ($1.191 billion) 4

•  Passed preapproval inspections by the FDA and EMA for its Oasis biopharma site in Shanghai, in collaboration with an undisclosed customer.
•  The company’s Yongda Zhang, PhD, and his team received an award from the American Chemical Society for green chemistry and engineering.

10. MilliporeSigma/Merck KGaA Burlington, MA/Darmstadt, Germany €792 million ($864.8 million) 5

•  Closed August 1 on its acquisition of Mirus Bio for approximately $600 million from Gamma Biosciences, a life sciences platform established by global investment firm KKR. The deal was intended to reinforce the buyer’s viral vector manufacturing capabilities.
•  Finished the H1 2024 with €351 million ($383 million), down 4% from €366 million (about $400 million) a year earlier. 5
•  Offering SMCxPRO immunoassay technology to help detect low levels of a biomarker associated with cell dysfunction in patients, through support from the Michael J. Fox Foundation.
• This Thermo Fisher figure reflects the approximately 30% share of revenues generated by the Pharma Services business of Thermo Fisher’s Laboratory Products and Biopharma Services segment in 2022, the most recent year for which a figure was available, according to a chart presented during the 2023 Investor Day. Through a spokesperson, Thermo Fisher offered no comment on projections made July 14 by analysts at Jefferies that CDMO activity will account for 8% of 2025 revenues, and that bioprocessing activity will account for 9% of 2025 revenues. The combined 17% would total $8.022 billion, up 15% from the 2022 revenue figure reported here. Jefferies projects that Thermo Fisher’s overall revenue will rise 7% in 2025, to $45.957 billion.
• This Catalent figure reflects net revenue for the four most recent quarters for which the CDMO published results—the fourth quarter of FY 2023 (April–June 2023) and the first three quarters of FY 2024 (July 2023–March 2024). FY 2024 ended on June 30, 2024.
• This Fujifilm Diosynth figure is the sum of Q1–Q4 fiscal year 2023 quarterly revenue figures for the “Bio CDMO” business within the Healthcare segment of Fujifilm Holdings, whose subsidiaries include CDMO Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies. Fujifilm operates on a fiscal year that runs from April 1 of the named FY to March 31. FY 2023 covers the 12 months starting April 1, 2023, and ending March 31, 2024.
• This Boehringer Ingelheim figure reflects revenue for the BioXcellence division (biopharmaceutical contract production), furnished by the company within its annual reports.
• This MilliporeSigma figure reflect parent company Merck KGaA’s Life Science Services business unit, which includes CDMO and contract testing services.

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Total neoadjuvant therapy shows promising results in routine care for advanced rectal cancer

• Download PDF Copy

In a recent prospective observational cohort study published in eClinicalMedicine , researchers evaluated a modified regimen of total neoadjuvant treatment (TNT) in high-risk locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) patients in Sweden.

They found that the modified TNT regime achieved similar complete response (CR) rates and lower neurotoxicity compared to the RAPIDO trial, despite treating older patients with more advanced tumors.

Preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is the standard treatment for LARC, often followed by adjuvant chemotherapy. However, while CRT effectively reduces locoregional recurrences, it has limited impact on distant metastases and overall survival.

This led to interest in TNT, which involves delivering systemic treatment before surgery. The RAPIDO (short for Rectal Cancer and Preoperative Induction Therapy Followed by Dedicated Operation)  trial compared CRT with a TNT regimen of short-course radiotherapy (scRT) followed by preoperative chemotherapy (CAPOX or FOLFOX), showing improved outcomes.

The Uppsala recruiting center, a key participant in RAPIDO, observed positive results with TNT, particularly due to the reduced radiation burden and better response rates. Consequently, they introduced a modified TNT regimen (LARC treatment–Uppsala style, LARCT-US) with fewer chemotherapy cycles, anticipating non-inferior outcomes.

This regimen was adopted by multiple Swedish centers, and outcomes were tracked through the Swedish Colorectal Cancer Registry (SCRCR), including patients treated according to the protocol but not formally enrolled in the study.

In the present study, researchers reported the outcomes of Swedish LARC patients treated with a shorter RAPIDO TNT schedule, comparing the results with the experimental arm of the RAPIDO trial.

About the study

The present study involved 16 hospitals with 273 patients, with some patients in two hospitals treated off-study ad modum (AdmL, n=189) due to logistical challenges or during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

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Together, these 18 hospitals represented nearly all centers treating (LARC in Sweden. Patients were staged using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT). The inclusion criteria were identical to the RAPIDO trial— rectal adenocarcinoma less than 16 cm from the anal verge, high-risk MRI features, age 18 years or older, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status ≤1, and adequate follow-up potential.

Patients with nonresectable tumor growth, distant metastases, recurrent rectal cancer, significant comorbidities, specific genetic conditions, contraindications to MRI, recent malignancies or investigational treatments, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant cardiac or neurological conditions were excluded.

The included patients were treated with short-course radiotherapy (5×5 Gy) followed by 12 weeks of CAPOX or FOLFOX-6 chemotherapy. Surgery followed unless a clinical CR (cCR) allowed for a watch-and-wait (W&W) approach.

The primary endpoint was the CR rate, combining pathologic complete response (pCR) and sustained cCR. Secondary endpoints included toxicity, disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), distant metastases (DM), locoregional recurrence (LRR), and quality of life (QoL).

Toxicity was assessed using the common terminology criteria for adverse events (CTCAE) criteria, and QoL was evaluated at three years post-treatment, although assessments were delayed due to the pandemic.

The statistical methods used included Kaplan–Meier analysis, Clopper-Pearson confidence intervals, odds ratios, and cumulative incidence with competing risks.

Results and discussion

The patients in the present study were older and with more advanced tumors than the RAPIDO trial. CR was achieved in 24% of LARCT-US and 23% of AdmL patients.

Surgery was performed in 84% (LARCT-US) and 85% (AdmL) of patients, with an R0/R1 resection rate of 98%. Over a follow-up period of 3.6 to 7.6 years, disease-related treatment failure occurred in 29% of LARCT-US and 27% of AdmL patients.

Toxicity was observed during radiotherapy and chemotherapy, mostly as grade-3 diarrhea, but overall survival at three years was similar in both groups (88% LARCT-US, 89% AdmL).

Long-term outcomes showed that recurrence risks correlated with response to treatment, NAR (short for neoadjuvant rectal cancer) scores, and pathological staging. Fewer sensory problems were reported compared to previous studies.

The inclusion of a real-life patient mix with advanced tumors, a high complete response rate, and the meticulous registration of outcomes strengthens the study.

However, the study's limitations include incomplete toxicity reporting, missing QoL evaluations, partial patient data, and uncertainties in follow-up and eligibility criteria, impacting the validity of comparisons with the RAPIDO trial.

In conclusion, in LARC patients with a high risk of recurrence, a shortened TNT regimen that includes scRT followed by four chemotherapy cycles (instead of six) appears to be equally effective in combating LARC in real-life scenarios, which often involve more advanced tumors than those studied in clinical trials.

The low risk of locoregional failure or locoregional recurrence (LRR) observed with this regimen is encouraging, suggesting that this resource-saving approach can be effectively implemented in routine care.

Although the shorter regimen may not reduce systemic recurrences as effectively as six cycles, it may help to reduce LRR in patients who respond poorly to treatment.

Glimelius, Bengt et al., (2024) Total neoadjuvant treatment using short-course radiotherapy and four CAPOX cycles in locally advanced rectal cancer with high-risk criteria for recurrence: a Swedish nationwide cohort study (LARCT-US). eClinicalMedicine . doi : 10.1016/j.eclinm.2024.102771 . https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(24)00350-X/fulltext

Posted in: Medical Science News | Medical Research News | Medical Condition News

Tags: Adenocarcinoma , Breastfeeding , Cancer , Chemoradiotherapy , Chemotherapy , Colorectal , Colorectal Cancer , Computed Tomography , Coronavirus , covid-19 , CT , Diarrhea , Genetic , Imaging , Magnetic Resonance Imaging , Oncology , Pandemic , Pregnancy , Radiotherapy , Surgery , Tomography , Tumor

Dr. Sushama R. Chaphalkar

Dr. Sushama R. Chaphalkar is a senior researcher and academician based in Pune, India. She holds a PhD in Microbiology and comes with vast experience in research and education in Biotechnology. In her illustrious career spanning three decades and a half, she held prominent leadership positions in academia and industry. As the Founder-Director of a renowned Biotechnology institute, she worked extensively on high-end research projects of industrial significance, fostering a stronger bond between industry and academia.  

Please use one of the following formats to cite this article in your essay, paper or report:

Chaphalkar, Sushama R.. (2024, August 26). Total neoadjuvant therapy shows promising results in routine care for advanced rectal cancer. News-Medical. Retrieved on August 27, 2024 from https://www.news-medical.net/news/20240826/Total-neoadjuvant-therapy-shows-promising-results-in-routine-care-for-advanced-rectal-cancer.aspx.

Chaphalkar, Sushama R.. "Total neoadjuvant therapy shows promising results in routine care for advanced rectal cancer". News-Medical . 27 August 2024. <https://www.news-medical.net/news/20240826/Total-neoadjuvant-therapy-shows-promising-results-in-routine-care-for-advanced-rectal-cancer.aspx>.

Chaphalkar, Sushama R.. "Total neoadjuvant therapy shows promising results in routine care for advanced rectal cancer". News-Medical. https://www.news-medical.net/news/20240826/Total-neoadjuvant-therapy-shows-promising-results-in-routine-care-for-advanced-rectal-cancer.aspx. (accessed August 27, 2024).

Chaphalkar, Sushama R.. 2024. Total neoadjuvant therapy shows promising results in routine care for advanced rectal cancer . News-Medical, viewed 27 August 2024, https://www.news-medical.net/news/20240826/Total-neoadjuvant-therapy-shows-promising-results-in-routine-care-for-advanced-rectal-cancer.aspx.

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