Vacant job

Postdoctor Researcher in Sports and Health Sciences with a focus on Biomechanics and Sensor Technology

Dalarna University – Project Helmet IQ

Dalarna University is seeking a postdoctoral researcher for a two-year position within the research project Helmet IQ – Real-World Integrity and Safety Monitoring. The project is conducted in close collaboration with industry partners POC, SkiStar Åre, and Folksam, with the aim of developing helmet safety for skiing and cycling.

The postdoctoral researcher will primarily work on the development and validation of sensor systems, data collection, usage tracking, and analysis of the structural integrity of helmets.

About the Project

Helmets are crucial for preventing head injuries, but knowledge about how helmets age and degrade during real-world use remains limited. The Helmet IQ project combines sensor technology, materials science, and data analysis to develop methods that can link a helmet's usage history, impact exposure, and protective capability over time.

The project is conducted at Dalarna University within the research group Swedish Unit for Metrology in Sports (SUMS), at the Department of Sport and Health Sciences, in collaboration with industrial partners and international research contacts. The research includes both laboratory-based tests and field studies in real-world environments.

Responsibilities

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will:

• develop and validate sensor systems for recording linear and rotational impacts in helmets,
• work on the integration of sensors into ski and bicycle helmets,
• plan and conduct laboratory tests and validation studies,
• develop systems for data collection and transmission of sensor data,
• develop algorithms for the identification and classification of impacts and loads,
• contribute to the development of systems for usage tracking and lifecycle analysis of helmets,
• collaborate closely with the project's industry partners regarding technical development and implementation,
• publish research results in international scientific journals and present findings at conferences.

The work involves both experimental studies, technical development, and data analysis.

Qualifications

For the position, the following requirements apply:

• A PhD in electronics, mechatronics, sensor technology, or a related field,
• documented experience in experimental data collection, signal processing, and analysis,
• experience in the development of sensors, IMU systems, or other measurement technology,
• strong programming skills, for example in Python, MATLAB, or similar,
• excellent verbal and written communication skills in both Swedish and English.

Merits

The following experience is considered a merit:

• signal processing and analysis of accelerometer and gyroscope data,
• embedded systems and wireless data communication,
• machine learning or predictive modeling,
• work in collaboration with industry or applied research,
• scientific publication in relevant fields.

Great importance will be attached to personal suitability, teamwork skills, and the ability to work independently in an interdisciplinary research environment.

About the Position

The position is a fixed-term postdoctoral appointment for two years, based at Dalarna University in Falun, with a significant amount of work also taking place in Stockholm. The position is 80% of full-time.

Start date is by agreement.

Travel within the project is expected.

About Dalarna University

Dalarna University offers education and research across a broad spectrum of fields and has a strong profile in applied research and collaboration with business and society. The research environment SUMS works interdisciplinarily with biomechanics, performance analysis, injuries, and sensor technology within sports and health.

Application

Applications are submitted digitally via the university's recruitment system and must include:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Relevant certificates and diplomas
• A complete list of publications, with five of the most relevant publications cited and attached
• A written account of scientific or artistic activities
• Teaching merits as outlined in the template available at http://www.du.se/pedagogiskameriter (http://www.du.se/pedagogiskameriter)

We look forward to receiving your application!

Application deadline: 2026-08-16

At Dalarna University, you help create the future. Our mission is to educate and research current issues. In close collaboration with business and the surrounding community, we create exciting opportunities and experiences for both students and staff. We are an academic environment built on openness, courage, and responsibility, and we value the competence and creativity of our employees. Dalarna University is a university with two campuses that attracts students and researchers from all over the world. Approximately 17,700 students study here, and we have about 700 employees.