PhD Candidate in Space Technology at Luleå University of Technology

Luleå University of Technology experiences rapid growth with world-leading expertise within several research areas. Our scientific and artistic research and education are conducted in close collaboration with international, national and regional companies, the public sector, and leading universities. Luleå University of Technology has an annual turnover of just over SEK 2.3 billion. We have more than 1,800 employees and nearly 21,600 students.

Northern Sweden is a European space region with several major players collaborating in space technology and space science. Luleå University of Technology (LTU) provides research and education, the Swedish Institute of Space Physics (IRF) focuses on space plasma research and instrument development, and EISCAT Scientific Association carries out radar observations of the upper atmosphere and ionosphere. The Swedish Space Corporation (SSC), with its facility Esrange, provides services and infrastructure for access to space.

Subject Description

Space systems include systems for control, instrumentation, and communication in the upper atmosphere and in space. Of particular importance are reliable, radiation-resistant low-power electronic systems and miniaturization of these.

Project Description

LTU started a multidisciplinary competence center in 2025 together with KTH and RISE in 6G and satellite communications, “Sustainable Mobile Autonomous and Resilient 6G SatCom”. Ericsson, Saab, Ovzon, Beyond Gravity, Forsway, Satcube, SSC, NorthernWaves, Primekey, Airforestry, Post and Telecom Agency (PTS), European Incoherent SCATter Scientific Association (EISCAT), the Swedish Transport Administration, Forest Industries, Region Norrbotten, Region Västerbotten, Region Stockholm, Eutelsat-OneWeb, Airbus, Viasat, and Thales Alenia Space also contribute to the project. The goal is to integrate traditional land-based mobile communications and space-based satellite communications in 6G, which is expected to be in use in the 2030s. The vision is that mobile communication services will be seamlessly available to anyone with a 6G device, anywhere and at any time. The focus will be on sustainability and energy efficiency, reliability and resilience, as well as system interoperability and always-on artificial intelligence.

Responsibilities

We welcome an enthusiastic and adaptable PhD candidate to join our interdisciplinary research group related to innovative methodologies for fast and low-cost validation and testing of 6G satellite technologies and improved in-orbit servicing and maintenance capabilities for 6G satellite constellations to contribute to increased space sustainability efforts. These research areas will be conducted in collaboration with the institutional and industry partners of the multidisciplinary competence center and shall utilize simulations, testing facilities, and nano satellite platforms.

As a PhD student, you are expected to perform both experimental and theoretical work within your research studies 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 and studies. In addition, you may have the opportunity to contribute to teaching. As a researcher, you will be involved in challenging research projects.

Qualifications

You must have a master’s degree or equivalent in aerospace engineering or a related subject and previous experience in the field of small spacecraft (pico, nano, or micro satellites) such as design, development, or operations of small satellite hardware or software. Applicants should also have good communication skills in written and oral communications in English.

Further Information

The fully funded employment as a PhD student is limited to 4 years, teaching and other department duties may be added with max 20%. Placement: Kiruna. Starting: by agreement.

For further information about the position, please contact Head of Division Victoria Barabash, (+46) 980-675 32 [email protected] or Chair Professor René Laufer, (+46) 980-675 82 [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.

Application

We prefer that you apply for this position by clicking on the apply button below. The application should include a CV (including the contact details of at least two teachers and/or researchers that know you and can provide academic references, if requested), a motivation letter describing your background and research interests with respect to the PhD position, and copies of verified diplomas and transcripts from universities. Mark your application with the reference number below. Your application, including diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish.

Closing date for applications: 28 May 2026
Reference number: 2263-2026