PhD Candidate in Ore Geology

Luleå University of Technology is experiencing strong growth with world-leading expertise in several research areas. 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 an annual turnover of over 2.3 billion SEK. We have more than 1,800 employees and nearly 21,600 students.

Subject Description

Ore geology encompasses the use, behavior, occurrence, and formation of naturally occurring economic concentrations of metallic raw materials. The research aims to describe the geological conditions that lead to exploitable concentrations of minerals, as well as how these minerals can be utilized for sustainable societal development.

Project Description

Norrbotten hosts several occurrences of critical and strategic raw materials within Paleoproterozoic surface rocks that overlie an Archean crystalline bedrock. Structural geological models indicate that large-scale fault and shear zone systems extend into the Archean bedrock, and that the history of these structures has been significant for deformation, fluid flow, and the development of mineral systems in the surface rocks. However, the geometry, kinematics, temporal relationships, and tectonic significance of these assumed bedrock structures are still insufficiently clarified.

The goal of the PhD project is to test and further develop existing structural geological models by integrating the Archean bedrock into a time-calibrated, multi-scale framework. This includes:

• Geological mapping and structural analysis of the Archean bedrock
• Geological 3D modeling of the bedrock architecture
• Multi-scale deformation analysis and microstructural studies
• Targeted petrochronological studies of magmatic and deformation-related events
• Integration with regional geophysical models developed within parallel projects

Job Responsibilities

A PhD position involves both theoretical and practical work. As a PhD candidate, you will be trained in scientific work through publication in international, peer-reviewed journals and by presenting research results at national and international conferences. You will also take mandatory and elective doctoral courses and may participate in teaching or other departmental duties (up to 20%).

A central part of this project is independent, field-based geological and structural mapping in northern Sweden, with significant responsibility for planning and execution. You will:

• Independently plan, organize, and conduct field campaigns, including logistics and safety assessments.
• Perform systematic structural measurements, kinematic analyses, and representative sampling.
• Integrate field observations into regional geological and structural framework models, conduct interpretations at multiple scales, and develop geological models in accordance with regional tectonic frameworks.
• Contribute to interdisciplinary data integration between geological, geochemical, geochronological, and geophysical datasets.

Fieldwork will be conducted in sparsely populated and topographically varied areas in the northernmost Norrbotten, often under varying and at times demanding subarctic weather conditions. The ability and willingness to work outdoors for extended periods is a prerequisite.

Qualifications

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a strong background in structural geology and a clear interest in large-scale tectonics and mineral systems.

Eligible for admission to doctoral studies is someone who has obtained a master's degree (or equivalent) in geosciences with a focus on structural geology, tectonics, ore geology, or a related field.

Particular emphasis will be placed on documented competence in:

• Structural geology and kinematic analysis
• Geological mapping and collection of structural geological data in the field
• Geological 3D modeling
• Multi-scale geological data analysis

Experience working in crystalline bedrock environments is strongly meritorious. Experience in geochronology is meritorious. Experience in geological fieldwork in northern Sweden or in similar subarctic environments is meritorious.

The applicant should:

• Have an interest in and enjoy extensive fieldwork in remote areas
• Be able to work independently and take responsibility for planning and executing field campaigns
• Exhibit analytical skills and good problem-solving abilities
• Be able to communicate scientific results clearly in English, both orally and in writing
• Hold a valid driver's license (B category)

Written proof of good English skills is required. Great emphasis will be placed on personal suitability, independence, and initiative.

Information

Employment as a PhD candidate is time-limited to 4 years, teaching and other departmental duties may be added up to 20% of full-time. Place of employment: Luleå. Expected start date: August 2026.

For further information, please contact:

Dr. Joel Andersson, Project Leader
[email protected]

Prof. Tobias Bauer
[email protected]

Dr. Edward Lynch
[email protected]

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

For the full version of the advertisement, see: Job vacancies | Luleå University of Technology

Application

We prefer that you apply for the position via the application button below, where you attach a personal letter, 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 31, 2026
Reference number: 2059-2026