PhD Student in Machine Elements for Hydrogen Storage

Luleå University of Technology is in strong growth with world-leading competence in several research areas. We shape the future through innovative education and ground-breaking research results, and based on the Arctic region, we create global social benefit. Our scientific and artistic research and education are conducted in close collaboration with international, national, and regional companies, public actors, and leading universities. Luleå University of Technology has a total turnover of nearly SEK 2.1 billion per year. We currently have 1,900 employees and 18,700 students.

In the coming years, multi-billion investments will be made in large projects in Northern Sweden to create a fossil-free society both nationally and globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these cutting-edge research projects and in the societal transformation that they entail. We offer a broad range of courses and study programmes to match the skills in demand. We hope that you will help us to build the sustainable companies and societies of the future.

Hydrogen Storage Consortium

Three Ph.D. students and one postdoctoral researcher will work in a multidisciplinary project focusing on the application of Lined Rock Caverns in hydrogen storage. The project contributes to the green transition and carbon neutrality in the steel industry in Norrbotten by developing large-scale underground hydrogen storage technology (UHS) in mines/mining areas including abandoned production levels. The work will be carried out in collaboration between Luleå University of Technology, LKAB, and Vattenfall.

The project involves a comprehensive investigation and evaluation of technical, economic, legal, safety, and regulatory aspects in connection with a future application of large-scale UHS in mining areas, which promotes circularity and renewable energy use for fossil-free steel production in future integrated value chains. As a Ph.D. student, the role offers a unique chance to impact sustainable development and to create a fossil-free society.

Subject Description

Machine Elements comprises the analysis and optimisation of machine components and component systems in order to enhance performance, longevity, energy-efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. Particular emphasis is placed on issues in the field of tribology.

Project Description

For using LINED ROCK CAVERN (LRC) in abandoned mining areas, the main issues are the material integrity, gaseous permeability, and toughness of the liner design. New multiscale polymer-based composites have shown promising results and are invaluable as alternative liner materials. To address this, research and development initiatives in this project are focused on the gas-permeability, mechanical properties, and tribological performance of the polymer-based materials in the presence of hydrogen. 2D-nano materials will be used to process polymer composites with high gas-barrier properties and increase self-lubricating property. Hydrogen diffusion, tribological performance, and mechanical properties will be studied. Interdisciplinary and industrial collaboration, dissemination of results among collaborators will be established. This activity is conducted as a doctoral project in the research subject Machine Elements at LTU with close collaboration with the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH), Vattenfall AB, and LKAB. There is potential for both patents and new product development for polymeric materials as liners in hydrogen applications.

Duties

As a PhD student, you are expected to perform extensive experimental work and some numerical and field work within your research studies as well as communicate your results at national and international conferences and in scientific peer-review journals. You shall read compulsory doctoral courses. The majority of your working time will be devoted to your own research studies. In addition, you may have the opportunity to participate in departmental duty for example teaching activity. You will be a member of the network of young scientists (NYS) at CH2ESS (Centre of Hydrogen Energy System Sweden), 2D-materials graduate network for young scientists, and National Tribology Research School in Sweden. Different networks of young scientists (NYS) arrange field trips, workshops, relevant courses, and other exciting activities to increase your future career perspectives.

Qualifications

In order to be eligible for this position, the applicant must have a MSc degree or equal in polymer engineering, material science and engineering, chemistry, and mechanical engineering with strong materials content.

The successful candidate for this position is a highly motivated person with a great interest in research, a strong intellect, and disciplined work habits. Since some work will be conducted on-site and in close collaboration with other researchers and industry partners, the ability to work collaboratively in larger groups is an important asset. The applicant must have good skills in both written and spoken English. It is a great advantage if you are fluent in speaking and writing Swedish so that you can collect data in Sweden and teach courses that are given in Swedish.

For further information about a specific subject, you could refer to General curricula for the board of the faculty of science and technology.

Information

Full-time fixed-term employment for 4 years (up to a maximum of five years). Departmental duties such as administration and/or teaching up to a maximum of 20% of full-time may be added.

The expected start date for the position is May-October 2025.

For further information, please contact:

Professor Nazanin Emami, main supervisor in this project, +46 920 491939, Nazanin.emmi@ltu.se
Professor Pär Marklund, head of the division, phone number +46 920 492419, par.marklund@ltu.se

Union representatives:

SACO-S Diana Chroneer, +46 920 492037, diana.chroneer@ltu.se
OFR-S: Marika Vesterberg, +46 920 491721, marika.vesterberg@ltu.se

Application

We prefer that you apply for this position by clicking on the apply button below. The application should include a CV, personal letter, and copies of verified diplomas from high school and universities. Mark your application with the reference number below. Your application, including diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish.

Closing date for applications: April 30, 2025
Reference number: 883-2025