Postdoctoral Researcher in Space Technology

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.

Northern Sweden is a European space region with several major players collaborating in space technology and space science. Luleå University of Technology (LTU) provides research and education, the Swedish Institute of Space Physics (IRF) focuses on space plasma research and instrument development, and EISCAT Scientific Association carries out radar observations of the upper atmosphere and ionosphere. The Swedish Space Corporation (SSC), with its facility Esrange, provides services and infrastructure for access to space.

Subject Description

Space systems include systems for control, instrumentation, and communication in the upper atmosphere and in space. Of particular importance are reliable, radiation-resistant low-power electronic systems and miniaturization of these.

Project Description

As part of the Space Sweden North project, you will join an academic team working in close collaboration with local and national industry to further develop Sweden’s space sector in the field of research, development, and testing of space propulsion systems and its applications.

Duties

As a post-doctoral researcher, you will participate in the research on space propulsion systems – especially regarding solid propellant, hybrid propellant, and liquid propellant systems. You will be involved in teaching in courses delivered by the Space Systems subject at the first and second cycle level, supervision of Master and doctoral students, and work with grant applications for initiating new project-based research directions related to the research conducted within the Space Systems subject.

The applicant is expected to participate in the group's joint development of the field of research and education and to collaborate with research groups both within the department, the university, and with other universities, colleges, and other external parties, both nationally and internationally.

Qualifications

To qualify for employment as a postdoctoral research fellow, a candidate must have a PhD, or foreign degree equivalent to a doctorate in space technology, mainly focusing on rocket propulsion systems (liquid or hybrid). In the first instance, it should be considered that a doctorate has been awarded for a maximum of three years before the end of the application period.

Assessment is based on the candidate’s research, teaching, and industrial projects’ potentials. However, emphasis shall be put on the qualities enabling the successful candidate to contribute to the future development of the rocket propulsion research at Luleå University of Technology, pertaining to both research and education. Applicants should also have good communication skills in written and oral communications in English.

Further Information

Full-time fixed-term employment for two years with placement in Kiruna. Starting: after agreement.

For further information about the position, please contact Head of Division Victoria Barabash, (+46) 980-67 532 [email protected] or Chair Professor in Space Systems René Laufer, (+46) 980-67 582 [email protected].

Union Representatives:

SACO-S Diana Chroneer, (+46)920-49 2037 [email protected]
OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, (+46)920-49 1721 [email protected]

In case of different interpretations of the English and Swedish versions of this announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.

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: 31 January 2026
Reference number: 7253-2025