PhD Student in Building Materials

Are you ready to take the next step in your academic journey? As a doctoral student with us, you will work closely with leading researchers in a strong, international research environment, with access to advanced laboratory equipment and solid funding opportunities. You will be offered secure employment, high-quality supervision, and room to grow, both as a researcher and as a person.

The research subject of Building Materials (https://www.ltu.se/research/subjects/Byggmaterial?l=en) consists of 15 people. The subject focuses on the development of sustainable materials and production technologies for the construction industry, as well as on ice and arctic conditions-related research and education.

Subject description

Building Materials includes sustainable building materials and their application technologies, recycling and reuse, and applied building physics, especially focusing on the Arctic conditions.

Project description

This research explores how mining waste, such as tailings and waste rock, can be reused rather than sent to landfill. Sweden, one of Europe's largest metal producers, generates large volumes of such waste each year, which can create environmental problems due to its reactive nature. This project aims to develop innovative ways to reuse this material in cement-based products, helping to reduce environmental impact and support more sustainable, resource-efficient mining.

Duties

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. The tasks will include laboratory tests, analysis of data, and modeling.

Qualifications

To be eligible, you must have a master's degree in materials science or chemistry. You should have basic knowledge of building materials and be fluent in English.

The following work or research experience will be an advantage: experience with cementitious materials, XRD with Rietveld analysis, SEM, TG, DSC, micro-CT, particle size analysis, calorimetry, and synchrotron experimental measurement techniques. Knowledge of AI-based and machine-learning methods is also beneficial.

For further information about a specific subject see http://www.ltu.se/research/Utbildning-pa-forskarniva/Studieplaner/Allmanna-studieplaner-Teknisk-fakultetsnamnd?l=en

Further information

Employment as a PhD student is limited to 4 years; teaching and other department duties may be added with max 20%. Placement: Luleå. Starting: as soon as possible but not later than January 1, 2027

For each position, a preliminary salary range is provided based on the requirements, responsibilities, and market conditions associated with the role. https://www.ltu.se/en/about-the-university/work-with-us/applying-for-a-job#h-Informationonpaytransparency

For further information about the position, please contact Senior Lecturer Magdalena Rajczakowska, (+46)76 128 83 34, magdalena.rajczakowska@ltu.se

https://www.ltu.se/en/about-the-university/work-with-us/applying-for-a-job#h-Tradeunioncontacts

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, personal letter and copies of verified diplomas from high school and universities. Mark your application with the reference number below. Your application, including diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish. Recruitment communication and possible interviews will be done in English only.

Closing date for applications: September 30, 2026

Reference number: 4229-2026