Postdoctoral researcher in Human Work Science

Do you want to develop your research and teaching in an environment where collaboration with industry and society is a natural part of the work? With us, you will collaborate with dedicated colleagues, have access to modern research infrastructure, and enjoy strong opportunities to attract external funding. You will have the space to make a real difference for your students, your research, and society at large.

The research subject Human Work Science at Luleå University of Technology is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join an engaging research environment focused on the work environment, advanced technology and sustainable societal development. The successful candidate will work in research projects concerning the role of humans in sociotechnical systems and how these systems should be designed to support a sustainable green and digital transition.

As a postdoctoral researcher in Human Work Science, you will join a research group in a dynamic research environment that works closely with industry and universities worldwide. Human Work Science at Luleå University of Technology was established in 1974 and currently has 24 employees who conduct research and teaching in both social and technical fields. Our research is highly interdisciplinary, with close collaboration between engineers and social scientists. It is often needs-driven, conducted in close proximity to workplaces and carried out in collaboration with stakeholders in wider society, including manufacturing and service companies, the social partners, and other organisations and actors in the private, public and non-profit sectors. Our projects cover areas such as industry (mining, forestry, steel and construction), health and medical care, education and retail. Organisationally, Human Work Science is part of the Division of Human and Technology, within the Department of Social Sciences, Technology and Arts at Luleå University of Technology. More information is available on our website: www.ltu.se/arbetsvetenskap.

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will have excellent opportunities over two years to develop your academic qualifications in our research subject, primarily through research but also through teaching.

Subject description

Human Work Science includes research on work environment, technology and production systems, work organization, and/or other social processes from humans' conditions and needs in order to create safe and attractive work and socially sustainable development in working life, industry and society.

Project description

As a postdoctoral researcher in Human Work Science, you will primarily work in a research project that aims to develop new knowledge about how AR can support work in underground mines. The project aims to develop and implement Augmented Reality (AR)-based maintenance support for drill rigs. Its objective is to optimise human-technology interaction to improve the efficiency, safety and precision of maintenance processes in the mining industry. The project integrates advanced AR technology with comprehensive change-management strategies and user-centred UX work to support successful implementation and adoption. By combining Epiroc's technical expertise, Boliden's operational experience and academic research, the project seeks to create a solution that is not only technically innovative but also practically useful and well received by maintenance personnel. The work focuses on identifying critical information, optimising how maintenance instructions and training materials are presented, and determining key parameters for improved maintenance. The expected outcomes are more efficient maintenance processes, improved safety, fewer operational disruptions and a better user experience, contributing in turn to greater sustainability and competitiveness in the Swedish mining industry.

Duties

The duties of a postdoctoral researcher primarily involve research. Teaching and educational development may account for no more than 20 per cent of working time. You will participate in and actively contribute to collaboration with national and international partners and with research groups both within and outside Luleå University of Technology. You will also have the opportunity to apply for external research funding.

Qualifications

In order to be eligible for employment as postdoctoral researcher you must have a PhD or a foreign degree equivalent to a PhD in Human Work Science or a closely related research field. A doctoral degree awarded no more than three years before the application deadline provides a useful qualification. Candidates who have been awarded a doctoral degree at an earlier date may also be considered if there are special grounds, for example, different types of statutory leave of absence.

We would also welcome applicants who have

very good knowledge of both qualitative and quantitative methods

experience of independently applying for competitive research funding

experience of leading projects or working groups

Good oral and written communication skills in Swedish or English are required.

Considerable weight will also be given to personal suitability. Desirable personal qualities include good collaboration skills, initiative, an interest in development work, and the ability and motivation to pursue an academic career.

Information

This is a full-time position for two years with the possibility of extension for up to three years, based in Luleå. The intended starting date is 1 November 2026.

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

For further information, please contact Professor Phillip Tretten, +46 920 49 28 55, mailto:phillip.tretten@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 applications to be submitted using the application button below. Please attach a cover letter, CV and copies of verified degree certificates, and state the reference number shown below. The application and degree certificates must be written in Swedish or English.

Application deadline: October 27, 2026

Reference number: 5037-2026