Vacant job

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 Department of Materials Science at Luleå University of Technology is seeking motivated candidates interested in research within construction materials, with a focus on the design and development of advanced sorbent materials for environmental and gas purification applications. The research subject "Construction Materials" has ongoing research programs spanning broad research areas within metallic and ceramic materials (high-temperature intermetallics, space materials, high-strength steels, porous ceramic materials, and materials intended for energy recovery). The department is part of the School of Engineering Science and Mathematics, which also includes several other research subjects with activities in materials technology, such as solid mechanics and machine elements. In the educational programs, the two main programs with an international profile are important for the school, namely the Civil Engineering program EEIGM and the Master's program AMASE. Within these programs, many students carry out project work and thesis projects in projects linked to our research. The research subject Construction Materials consists of five senior researchers, two technicians, and nine doctoral students.

SUBJECT DESCRIPTION

Materials technology covers the composition, structure, properties, and production of materials, primarily metallic and ceramic materials, as well as their aspects of use.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

You will work with the synthesis, optimization, and characterization of advanced sorbent materials for the selective capture of NOx and SOx under humid industrial conditions. Based on calculation results from project partners, the student will develop functionalized activated carbons, ion-exchange zeolites, and MOF-based hybrid composites with improved adsorption selectivity, moisture stability, and regeneration capacity at low temperatures. The work includes studies of adsorption mechanisms, binding thermodynamics, NO- and NO2-selectivity, as well as the effects of SO2 interference using advanced characterization and adsorption techniques. The research will also address the durability of sorbents under realistic gas mixtures with pollutants, as well as the optimization of material formulations for additive manufacturing and pilot-scale implementation. The project has been granted funding within the EIC Pathfinder challenges for converting waste into value creation.

DUTIES

As a doctoral student, you are responsible for defining your daily tasks and how they should be performed. You will act and train as a project manager in combination with your own development. Participation in other projects and teaching will take up to 20 percent of your time.

QUALIFICATIONS

The applicant must have a Master's degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering, as well as good knowledge and experience in sorption, catalysts, and their characterization. The applicant must have very good ability to express themselves in speech and writing in English. Experience in process technology, porous materials, and synthetic chemistry is meritorious.

INFORMATION

Employment as a doctoral student is time-limited for 4 years; teaching and other institutional duties may be added up to 20% of full-time.

The doctoral position is at the School of Engineering Science and Mathematics, Department of Materials Science. The location is in Luleå.

For further information, contact:

Professor Farid Akhtar, +46 920-49 1793, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

Professor Alberto Vomiero, +46 920-49 3139, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

Union Representatives:

SACO-S Diana Chroneer, +46 920-49 2037, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, +46 920-49 1721, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

Luleå University of Technology works actively with equality and diversity to contribute to a creative study and work environment. The university's value base is built on respect, openness, cooperation, trust, and responsibility.

APPLICATION

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

Last day for application: 2026-08-09

Reference number: 3877-2026