Vacant job

Luleå University of Technology is experiencing strong growth with world-leading expertise in several research areas. We shape the future through innovative education and groundbreaking research results, and based on the Arctic region, we create global societal benefits. 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 2.1 billion SEK per year. We currently have 1,900 employees and 18,700 students.

In the coming years, multi-billion investments will be made in Norrbotten and Västerbotten in large projects aimed at creating a more sustainable society both nationally and globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these highly relevant research projects and the societal transformation that follows. We have a wide range of educational programs to match the skills that are in demand. We hope that you will help us build the sustainable companies and societies of the future.

Subject Description

Machine elements encompass the analysis and optimization of machine components and component systems based on performance, lifespan, energy efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. Special emphasis is placed on questions within the field of tribology.

Consortium

Three PhD students and one postdoctoral researcher will work on a larger project focused on the development of large-scale underground hydrogen storage technology (SUV) in mines/mining areas. The project contributes to the green transition and carbon neutrality within the steel industry in Norrbotten by developing large-scale underground hydrogen storage technology (SUV) in mines/mining areas, including abandoned production levels. The project involves a comprehensive investigation and evaluation of technical, economic, legal, safety, and regulatory aspects related to a future application of large-scale UHS in mining areas, promoting both a circular economy and renewable energy use for fossil-free steel production in future integrated value chains. As a PhD student in the project, you will have a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable development and the creation of a fossil-free society. If you are interested in polymer tribology and hydrogen ecosystems as well as renewable energy systems, then the offered PhD position is for you.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

For the use of LINED ROCK CAVERN (LRC) in former mining areas, the main issues are material integrity, gas permeability, and toughness of the liner design. New multi-scale 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 gas permeability, mechanical properties, and tribological performance of the polymer-based materials in the presence of hydrogen. Surface functionalization of 2D-based materials will be used to reduce H2 permeability and enhance the new composite's self-lubricating properties. Laboratory tests on hydrogen diffusion, microstructure development, and mechanical properties will be conducted, and the properties will be linked to predict the material's condition. Interdisciplinary and industrial collaboration, dissemination of results among partners will be established. This activity is conducted as a PhD project within the research subject of Machine Elements at LTU in close collaboration with the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH). There is potential for both patents and new product development for polymer materials as liners in hydrogen applications.

Job Responsibilities

As a PhD student, you are expected to perform both laboratory, numerical, and practical work. Within the framework of your doctoral education, you are also expected to communicate your results at national and international conferences as well as in scientific journals. In addition, you will also take both mandatory and elective doctoral courses. However, the largest part of your working time will be devoted to your own research. In your role as a PhD student, you may also have the opportunity to try out a teaching role.

As a PhD student in the SUV project, you will also participate in the “network of young scientists (NYS)” within the framework of the Centre for Hydrogen Energy Systems Sweden (CH2ESS), as well as the 2D-materials network and National Tribology Research school in Sweden. NYS organizes study visits, workshops, and other interesting activities to enhance your career opportunities in the future.

Qualifications

To be eligible for this position, the applicant must have a Master's degree or equivalent in polymer technology, materials science, polymer chemistry, and mechanical engineering with a strong materials focus. The successful candidate for this position is a highly motivated person with a strong research inclination, a sharp 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 collaborate in larger groups is an important asset. The applicant should have good knowledge of English in both spoken and written form. It is a significant advantage if you are proficient in Swedish in both spoken and written form so that you can collect data in Sweden and teach courses offered in Swedish.

For further information on specific doctoral education, see Study plans for doctoral education within the Faculty of Engineering.

Information

Employment as a PhD student is time-limited to 4 years, teaching and other institutional duties may be added up to 20% of full-time. The expected start date for the employment is May-October 2025.

For further information, contact:
Professor Nazanin Emami, main supervisor, 0920 491939, nazanin.emami@ltu.se
Professor Pär Marklund, department head, 0920 492419, par.marklund@ltu.se

Union representatives:
SACO-S Diana Chroneer, 0920-49 2037, diana.chroneer@ltu.se
OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, 0920-49 1721, marika.vesterberg@ltu.se

In case of any discrepancies between the English and Swedish versions of this advertisement, the English version takes precedence.

Application

We prefer that you apply for the position via the application button below, attaching a personal letter and CV/resume and copies of verified degree certificates. Please mark your application with the reference number below. Both the application and degree certificates should be written in Swedish or English.

Reference number: 883-2025
Application deadline: April 30, 2025