PhD Student in the Didactics of Mathematics and Natural Sciences

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 with a focus 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, billions will be invested 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 in demand. We hope you want to help us build the sustainable companies and societies of the future.

The Department of Education, Language and Subject Didactics has an extensive operation with research, development, and teaching in undergraduate education, advanced level education, commissioned training, and independent courses related to teacher education and special education programs as well as preschool and school. We are looking for a PhD student in the didactics of mathematics and natural sciences focused on teaching and students' learning in mathematics to strengthen the competence in our research area and contribute to knowledge and skills in schools in our region.

Subject Description

The didactics of mathematics and natural sciences deals with teaching and learning in the mathematical and natural science subjects at various levels in the education system. The research creates a scientific basis for developing and strengthening teaching by examining teaching and learning processes, how specific subject content is communicated in different contexts, and how individuals and groups at various educational levels develop and use knowledge. Special focus is placed on students' motivation, skills, and attitudes towards the subject area as well as the development of teaching methods in modern learning environments.

Project Description

In this PhD project, we focus on how students develop their mathematical thinking and how teaching can be designed to enhance their understanding and problem-solving abilities. A current challenge in today's classrooms is to create conditions for deep and meaningful learning, especially when digital tools are used as an integrated part of teaching.

The project investigates how different teaching strategies can help students formulate, test, and make their reasoning visible. Digital resources – such as AI, programming, and other ICT – are studied both as support for metacognitive processes, motivation, and exploration, and as technologies that require critical and conscious use. Special emphasis is placed on how students and teachers can relate to the fact that AI-generated solutions are not always reliable at the detail level.

The overall goal is to develop teaching methods that are based on students' needs and that enhance their ability to interpret, understand, and use the central concepts of mathematics and physics in their own thinking and problem-solving work. As a PhD student, you will be able to create your own project and your own research questions within the framework of this project.

Job Responsibilities

A PhD position involves both theoretical and practical work. As a PhD student, you will be trained in scientific work in the form of publishing scientific articles in journals and at national and international conferences. You will take mandatory and elective PhD courses, totaling at least 60 credits. In addition, you will work with teaching and supervision. As a PhD student, you will become part of the research environment within the department and are expected to contribute to the development of the research environment within the research area. This includes scientific work with international publications as well as participation in national and international conferences.

Qualifications

You are qualified to apply for this position if you have basic eligibility with a completed degree at the advanced level, completed course requirements of at least 240 credits, of which at least 60 credits at the advanced level. In addition to the requirement for basic eligibility, at least 90 credits in mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, or engineering are required, of which a maximum of 30 credits may consist of courses in the didactics of the subjects.

You should have good collaboration skills and a good ability to express yourself verbally and in writing in Swedish and English. A teaching degree and experience with school development and collegial processes are meritorious.

Information

Employment as a PhD student is time-limited to 4 years, with teaching and other institutional duties amounting to 20% of full-time, making the position a total of 5 years. Part of the institutional duties will be carried out together with the school principal in their operations or in development work. Place of employment: Luleå. Start date by agreement.

For more information, contact Professor and subject representative Timo Tossavainen, 0920-49 3698, [email protected]

Union representatives:
SACO-S Diana Chroneer, 0920-49 2037 [email protected]
OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, 0920-49 1721 [email protected]

Application

You apply for the position via the application button below, attaching a personal letter, CV/resume, research proposal, and copies of verified degree certificates. Mark your application with the reference number below. Both the application and degree certificates must be written in Swedish or English.

Application deadline: January 20, 2026
Reference number: 7089-2025