Postdoctoral Researcher in Process Metallurgy

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, creating global societal benefits based on the Arctic region. 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 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 you want to help us build the sustainable companies and societies of the future.

Research Subject

The Process Metallurgy subject at the Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering is seeking an engaged postdoctoral researcher who wants to be part of our growing team. Our research includes both fundamental and applied studies in pyro- and hydrometallurgy, with a strong focus on sustainable, resilient, and circular value chains.

Subject Description

Process metallurgy encompasses sustainable extraction of metals from primary and secondary raw materials based on both pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical methods.

Project Description

The position is part of an interdisciplinary research project – a larger collaborative initiative between academia and industry – aimed at reducing the climate impact of cement production. The project investigates how electric arc furnace slag from steel production can be modified and further developed as a complementary binder in cement, enabling reduced clinker content and significantly lower carbon dioxide emissions from cement and concrete.

You are expected to contribute expertise in slag chemistry, thermodynamics, and circular material solutions, focusing on developing a fundamental understanding of various methods for slag modification and their consequences for material performance. The research combines thermodynamic modeling, small-scale laboratory experiments, and advanced slag characterization to establish scientifically well-founded concepts for resource-efficient and environmentally safe slag recycling.

The project is conducted in close collaboration with leading industrial partners in the steel and cement sectors and offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of fundamental process metallurgy and industrially relevant, climate-driven innovation.

Responsibilities

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will primarily participate in research. You are expected to conduct high-quality research with both fundamental and applied elements, leading to publications in international peer-reviewed scientific journals and presentations at international conferences. The position includes conducting experimental and modeling-based research activities in process metallurgy, as well as analyzing and interpreting experimental data.

The postdoctoral researcher will work in the field of process metallurgy, with tasks related to an international research and development project conducted in close collaboration with industrial partners.

Qualifications

To be eligible for the postdoctoral position, a completed PhD or foreign degree deemed equivalent to a PhD in process metallurgy or a closely related or otherwise relevant field is required. The PhD should normally have been completed no more than three years before the application deadline. Candidates with previously completed degrees may also be considered if special circumstances exist.

The candidate is expected to have a strong background in experimental-based research, with documented experience in small-scale laboratory experiments and advanced characterization methods. A demonstrated scientific interest in slag chemistry and metallurgical processes is advantageous, particularly regarding the understanding of the relationships between slag properties, process conditions, and their potential use as alternative cement-based materials. Relevant research experience may include, for example, the distribution of trace elements between metal, slag, and gas phases, slag reactivity, and environmental and sustainability aspects within cement and concrete use.

Excellent communication skills in spoken and written English are required. The position demands a structured and analytical approach to work, as well as good problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Personal suitability will also be assessed, with particular emphasis on the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, as well as motivation, initiative, and a strong sense of responsibility.

Information

The postdoctoral position is fixed-term for two years with the possibility of extension for a maximum of one year. The place of employment is Luleå. The intended start date is September 1, 2026, or earlier by agreement.

For further information, please contact:

Fredrik Engström, Professor and Subject Representative, 0920-49 1388, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

Anton Andersson, University Lecturer, 0920-49 3409, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

Union Representatives:

SACO-S Diana Chroneer, 0920-49 2037 [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, 0920-49 1721 [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

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.

Application deadline: March 16, 2026
Reference number: LTU-1983-2026