Postdoctoral Researcher in Machine Elements

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.

The research at the Department of Machine Elements primarily focuses on tribology and its applications. The research group is highly international and consists of more than 40 researchers and PhD students, making it one of the leading tribology research groups in Europe. The research is both fundamental and applied in nature and is often conducted in close collaboration with Swedish and international industry.

We are currently seeking a postdoctoral researcher to help us further develop research in the field of machine elements.

Subject Description

Machine elements encompass the analysis and optimization of machine components and component systems based on performance, lifespan, energy efficiency, reliability, and environmental impact. Special emphasis is placed on issues within the field of tribology.

Project Description

You will work on research involving the characterization and evaluation of tribological performance for various alloys at high temperatures and in corrosive environments. The research aims to develop a fundamental understanding of the mechanisms that govern friction and wear of different materials under these conditions, with a particular focus on fretting.

Responsibilities

The main research will involve tribological evaluation of various materials and coatings at high temperatures, as well as analysis of microstructure, mechanical properties, and tribological mechanisms. The work is primarily experimental, requiring good practical skills and detailed knowledge of tribology, tribological testing, surface analysis, and material characterization.

Qualifications

To be eligible for employment, a PhD or equivalent foreign degree in mechanical engineering or materials science is required. It is advantageous if your degree was obtained no more than three years before the application deadline for this position. If there are special reasons, candidates who completed their PhD earlier may also be considered, for example, due to various types of statutory leave.

The research is primarily experimental in nature, and you must have very good practical skills and knowledge in tribology, tribological testing, and analysis. You should have good oral and written communication skills and be fluent in English. Experience with tribological testing (especially fretting) at high temperatures and in corrosive environments, as well as surface analysis techniques with applications in tribology, is an advantage. In evaluating candidates, special emphasis will be placed on the following:

• Knowledge and skills relevant to the project
• The quality of previous research results
• Personal skills relevant to research

Information

This position is a full-time appointment for two years. The workplace is Luleå. Planned start date is in spring 2026.

For further information, please contact Professor Jens Hardell, 0920-49 1774, [email protected]

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

Application

We prefer that you apply for the position via the application button below, attaching a personal letter, CV/resume, and copies of verified degree certificates and thesis. Please mark your application with the reference number below. Both the application and degree certificates should be written in Swedish or English.

Application deadline: 2026-03-24
Reference number: 2203-2026