Bio-based Active Packaging Systems for the Protection of Archaeological and Cultural Heritage

Note the specific entry requirements, particularly regarding skills and previous education, plus, note that an average Masters grade of 80% is required.

The deadline for applications is 20 Aug 2026.

Any questions you might have about the projects of the application process, please send to info@greenher.uni-lj.si.

The starting salary for a PhD student is €2218 (pre-tax). As a public employee you will be entitled to a summer and a Christmas bonus. For any questions regarding the salary and other HR aspects, please contact sara.matjacic@greenher.uni-lj.si.

Below, short outlines of PhD topics are provided. At the interviews, the applicants are expected to present and discuss their plan for the development of these outlines into PhD projects.

The doctoral researcher will work on the development of bio-based active packaging systems for the protection of archaeological and cultural heritage. The research will focus on the development of innovative functional packaging materials intended for the active regulation of the microenvironment during excavation, transport and long-term storage of archaeological finds. Special emphasis will be placed on the development of bio-based functional materials that will enable the regulation of relative humidity, the reduction of oxidative processes, the adsorption of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and the limitation of microbiological degradation in order to maintain the biomolecular integrity of archaeological samples. The research will connect the fields of materials, packaging technologies, conservation, archaeology and biomolecular sciences and contribute to the development of sustainable solutions for the long-term preservation of cultural heritage. The researcher will take part in the development of national and international research project proposals and contribute to exciting interdisciplinary activities across GreenHer CoE.

Location: The position is based at the GreenHer Unit UM / University of Maribor, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering.

Degree: University of Maribor

Mentor: The student will be mentored by Prof Dr Lidija Fras or Asist Prof Dr Matej Bračič. 

Education and skills requirements: A completed master course in materials, chemical technology, chemistry, textiles, woodworking, mechanical engineering, conservation-restoration, packaging technologies or other related natural sciences and technical fields.

Preference will be given to candidates with knowledge in the field of functional materials development, bio-based polymers, packaging technologies, material characterization, cultural heritage conservation or biomaterials.

Desirable skills:

·      Knowledge of materials, bio-based polymers, functional coatings, packaging technologies or cultural heritage conservation. 

·      Knowledge of physicochemical, structural, surface and mechanical characterization of materials and modern analytical methods (e.g. ATR-FTIR, Raman, SEM, contact angle, OTR, WVTR, mechanical analyses or related methods). 

·      Knowledge of the development and evaluation of functional materials, bio-based packaging systems and experimental research work in the laboratory. 

·      Knowledge of the basics of biomolecular archaeology, conservation or preventive protection of cultural heritage. 

·      Ability to plan, conduct and analyze experimental research and interpret results. 

·      Ability to prepare scientific and professional publications and participate in the preparation of national and international research projects. 

·      Motivation for doctoral studies and research work in the field of development of sustainable bio-based materials and active packaging systems for the protection of cultural heritage. 

·      Willingness to participate in interdisciplinary research groups and connect the fields of materials, packaging technologies, conservation, archaeology and biomolecular sciences. 

·      Excellent written and spoken English language skills. 

·      Ability to carry out independent research, communicate effectively and work as a team in an international research environment. 

Funding: This is a 100% funded position, 4 years, covering the fees, and a budget for travel and consumables.

Special notice: The interviews will take place in the week of 24 Aug.

To apply, follow this link: https://www.uni-lj.si/en/university/public-announcements/rektorat-researcher-greenher-pilot-1-sustainable-conservation-and-restoration