PhD Candidate in Technical Physics

We conduct research and education in the fields of physics, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, mathematics, technical design, technical physics, and subject didactics in mathematics and natural sciences. Here, you will find unique and world-leading research within the centers FSCN Research Centre and Sports Tech Research Centre.

As a PhD candidate in technical physics, you will work within the FSCN research center at Mid Sweden University (MIUN) for 75% of the time (years two to four) and collaborate with the research group for Sustainable Technologies at the University of Eastern Finland (UEF) for 25% of the time (year one).

This offers a unique opportunity to conduct research in two dynamic research environments and to work in an international context. The studies will lead to a so-called double degree, with diplomas issued from both MIUN and UEF.

At FSCN, there is a strong research environment in materials and process engineering, where multidisciplinary work aims to develop resource-efficient processes and improve the functionality of bio-based materials and energy materials. At Sustainable Technologies at UEF, the focus is on developing sustainable and circular processes in wood and fiber technology, as well as creating new materials that can replace non-renewable alternatives.

International Graduate School

The PhD position is part of the international graduate school IRS TransTech, where you will have the opportunity to collaborate with leading international universities and Swedish companies. The graduate school focuses on transformative technologies such as AI, IoT, and advanced materials, with the goal of driving sustainable industrial development and strengthening international research and business networks.

Job Responsibilities

Your own doctoral education will include research (80-100%) as well as teaching and administrative work (0-20%).

Fiber analysis is a method for analyzing the properties of particles through automated microscopy. This technique is used, among other things, in pulp manufacturing to characterize wood fibers to understand, control, and optimize industrial processes.

In this PhD project, titled Fiber Analysis of Internal and External Fibrillation to Unlock the Strength Potential of Pulp, you will use machine learning and AI to predict new critical properties of fibers, particularly related to their surface structure and interior. A central part of the project is to develop and improve analysis methods that can estimate parameters such as fiber wall thickness and swelling based on microscopic images, which in turn affect the strength and drainage properties of the pulp.

The PhD project is primarily conducted at MIUN but includes a one-year exchange at UEF. During this period, you will have the opportunity to work in an international research environment, deepen your knowledge in advanced image analysis, and benefit from UEF's expertise in fiber characterization and sustainable material processes.

Eligibility and Assessment Criteria

Basic eligibility is granted to those who have completed a master's degree or have fulfilled course requirements of at least 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 higher education credits at the master's level or have acquired equivalent knowledge in some other way within or outside the country. Special eligibility is granted to those who have at least 90 higher education credits in technical physics/physics/mechanical engineering or have acquired equivalent knowledge in some other way within or outside the country.

Laboratory or other practical experience in engineering is an asset. Demonstrated skills in mathematical modeling or simulation are also advantageous. Additionally, demonstrated communicative skills, such as teaching experience or publication in peer-reviewed journals, are meritorious.

Personal Qualities

Personal qualities such as initiative, creativity, communication skills, teamwork ability, and suitability for doctoral studies will be weighed against formal subject knowledge. A brief description of the applicant's visions and goals should be included in the application.

Other Assessment Criteria

Applicants must have a good ability to express themselves in spoken and written English.

Processing

The preparation of the employment follows the procedures specified in Chapter 5 of the Higher Education Ordinance and proceeds in accordance with this link (https://www.miun.se/medarbetare/styrdokument/ny-styrning-planering-och-uppfoljning/Personal/Anstalla-personal/?item=311447).

Employment

The PhD position corresponds to an employment equivalent to four years of full-time studies and is expected to lead to a doctoral degree.

A new PhD employment is valid for a maximum of one year, and the employment may then be renewed for a maximum of two years at a time. Regulations regarding employment as a PhD candidate are found in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), Chapter 5, Sections 1-7.

Location: Sundsvall, Sweden (three years) and Joensuu, Finland (first year)

Start date: September 1, 2025, or by agreement.

Salary: According to Mid Sweden University's salary scale for PhD candidates during the three years in Sweden. In accordance with UEF's salary regulations for PhD candidates during the first year in Finland.

Information: For further information, please contact Head of Department Claes Mattsson, claes.mattsson@miun.se (mailto:claes.mattsson@miun.se), 010-1428498, or Professor Stefan Lindström, stefan.lindstrom@miun.se (mailto:stefan.lindstrom@miun.se), 010-1428238. You can visit the department online: here (https://www.miun.se/mot-mittuniversitetet/Organisation/institutioner/imd/).

Application

Application documents should be in Swedish or English and include:

• Curriculum vitae without a photo. Max 2 pages.
• Certified copies of transcripts and degree certificates.
• Electronic copy of the thesis.
• Cover letter. Describe your visions and goals for the position in relation to your qualifications and interests. Max 1 page.

Any other documents that the applicant refers to.

Welcome with your application via our recruitment system no later than April 25, 2025.