Climate Change Effects and Adaptation in Urban Streams

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.

The Urban Water Engineering research group seeks a driven and committed PhD student with a focus on the effects of climate change and different adaptation measures on urban streams. Take the opportunity to join one of the leading stormwater research groups in the world with an international, creative, and dynamic environment and close cooperation with the industry and universities worldwide.

The Urban Water Engineering research group has a strong position in research and education on urban water systems, primarily stormwater, small-scale wastewater, and sewage systems.

The group consists of about 50 members including senior researchers, Swedish and international adjunct professors, and about 20 doctoral students. We have an extensive national and international collaboration network. The group's overall goal is to contribute to the development of sustainable urban water systems. More information: ltu.se/water (https://www.ltu.se/water)

Subject Description

Urban Water Engineering encompasses the entire urban water system (storm drains, drinking water supply, and wastewater) with respect to collection, transport, and treatment, as well as organization and planning. The research aims to encourage a strong economy, clean environment, and the wise use of resources, while preserving the public’s health and safety.

Project Description

Urbanization has a major effect on smaller streams that run through cities and are affected by increased hydraulic loads from stormwater systems as well as modifications to the natural stream including culverting. This can lead to increased flooding risks in cities that can increase further with climate change leading to intensified precipitation and changes in snowmelt patterns. Different climate adaptation measures such as ponds can be built to manage risks, but the combined effects of urbanization, climate change, and adaptation measures remain complex and require further investigation.

The results from the project will contribute to better estimations of how urban streams and climate change measures interact. The project is carried out in cooperation with public authorities in Umeå municipality.

Duties

As a PhD student, you will perform both experimental and theoretical work. You will learn how to collect and analyze scientific data within your research area as well as communicate your results at national and international conferences and in scientific journals. Most of your working time will be devoted to your own research studies, including both research and coursework. In addition, you will also carry out departmental duties, such as teaching and/or assisting in other research projects. You will have supervisors who support you in your work.

Research work for this project will specifically include experimental work (planning, organizing, and carrying out measurements in small streams) and hydraulic/hydrological modeling including investigations into the effects of different modeling approaches.

Qualifications

We seek a candidate with an MSc degree or equivalent or fully completed course requirements of at least 240 ETCS of which at least 60 ETCS are at an advanced level or equivalent. The degree should be within the field of water and environment, environmental engineering, natural resources engineering, civil engineering, or equivalent. Specific knowledge of hydrology, urban water engineering, basic computer programming (e.g. Matlab or Python), and experience carrying out measurements of stream flow (or similar) are meritorious. Other important skills are the ability to work independently and take initiative, as well as being able to explore new research areas.

English language skills are required since the results will be presented internationally in scientific journals and at conferences. Swedish/Scandinavian language skills are beneficial, as they will facilitate communication with stakeholders and participation in teaching activities. Having a driver’s license is meritorious.

Applicants should provide contact details to a minimum of two reference persons on request.

Further Information

Employment as a PhD student is limited to 4 years, teaching and other department duties may be added to that time with a maximum of 20%. Placement: Luleå. Starting: Spring 2026.

For further information about the position, please contact Associate Senior Lecturer Ico Broekhuizen, +46 920-49 35 70, [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.

For the full version of the advertisement, see Job vacancies | Luleå tekniska universitet (https://www.ltu.se/jobba-pa-ltu/lediga-jobb)

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: February 22, 2026
Reference number: 640-2026