Research Leader in Underwater Acoustics

The Total Defence Research Institute (FOI) is a government agency conducting world-leading research in defence and security to support Sweden's military and civil defence. The research spans several areas, including underwater, cyber defence, space, electronic warfare, sensor systems, civil defence, CBRNe (chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive materials), military platforms including weapons and protection, as well as security policy analyses. FOI's research plays a key role in building Sweden's defence capability.

Do you want to work in underwater acoustics with a focus on modeling and experimentation? We are expanding and looking for someone who wants to work in a research environment with engaged experts, where you contribute to a safer world.

About the Position

As a researcher in underwater acoustics, you will be part of a team working on measurement and modeling, where you will help shape and drive the research forward. Typical questions relate to acoustic characterization of the environment, ships, mines, and other objects in and under the water. We conduct experiments and sea trials regarding acoustic signal propagation and develop prototypes to demonstrate technical solutions for future material systems within total defence. The group also works on characterizing underwater noise and how it affects marine fauna.

About the Unit

We support the Armed Forces and the Defence Materiel Administration in improving and developing systems for reconnaissance and communication, as well as measurement and analysis of signatures in the underwater domain. At the same time, we contribute to international research by participating in conferences and publishing journal articles.

The work is conducted in project form, which means you will work both independently and in collaboration with researchers in acoustics and areas such as signal processing, electromagnetics, and hydrodynamics. We collaborate with national and international research organizations and conduct sea trials, which may involve travel.

Do you have the competence profile we need?

Requirements

We are looking for someone with a PhD in acoustics, geophysics, seismology, or a field that the employer deems relevant. As a person, you should have good problem-solving analytical skills. You should be able to communicate your knowledge to others easily. You should be able to express yourself verbally and in writing in both Swedish and English, both to colleagues and clients. Furthermore, you should be able to work independently and take responsibility while being easy to collaborate with others. We place great importance on your personal qualities.

Meritorious

Experience in planning and modeling measurements. It is essential that you have the ability to understand in-depth physics and collaborate with specialists in computation, measurement, and signal processing. A valid driver's license (Category B).

What do we offer you?

The Total Defence Research Institute (FOI) is a government agency conducting world-leading research in defence and security to support Sweden's military and civil defence. We offer a unique workplace where you can work on what is important for total defence and society as a whole. The research is applied both within defence authorities and with civilian actors and plays a crucial role in building a relevant and effective defence capability.

We consciously work for a good work environment with a good balance between work and private life. In addition, we offer a range of benefits. Read more about what it is like to work with us: Work with us (https://www.foi.se/jobba-hos-oss.html).

The position is a permanent employment that may start with a six-month probationary period.

Do you want to be part of seeking answers for a safer world? We welcome your application in the form of a CV and cover letter via the application button by March 8, 2026.

For more information about the position, please contact Malin Lennartsson. Union representatives are Staffan Lindgren (Saco-S) and Magnus Lindström (OFR/S - ST). All can be reached at 08-555 030 00.

As the position is classified, Swedish citizenship is required. A security clearance with a background check will be conducted prior to employment according to the Security Protection Act (2018:585). For the security clearance, certified copies of relevant education and employment certificates will be requested.

FOI is an authority, meaning that submitted application documents become public records that can be disclosed to third parties upon request according to the Public Access to Information and Secrecy Act.

Offers from recruitment companies are not welcome.