Luleå University of Technology is experiencing strong growth and boasts 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 sector organizations, and leading universities. Luleå University of Technology has an annual budget of just over 2.3 billion kronor. 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 in structural materials, with a focus on the design and development of advanced sorbent materials for environmental and gas purification applications. The research area “Structural Materials” has ongoing research programs spanning a broad range of research fields within metallic and ceramic materials (high-temperature intermetallics, aerospace materials, high-strength steels, porous ceramic materials, and materials intended for energy recovery). The division is part of the Department of Engineering Sciences and Mathematics, which also encompasses several other research areas with activities in materials engineering, such as materials mechanics and machine elements. Among the degree programs, the two main programs with an international profile are particularly important to the department: the EEIGM civil engineering program and the AMASE master’s program. Within these programs, many students conduct project work and thesis projects related to our research. The research area of Structural Materials consists of five senior researchers, two technicians, and nine doctoral students.
SUBJECT DESCRIPTION
Materials engineering encompasses the composition, structure, properties, and fabrication of materials—primarily metallic and ceramic materials—as well as their applications.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
You will work on the synthesis, optimization, and characterization of advanced sorbent materials for the selective capture of NOx and SOx under humid industrial conditions. Based on computational 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 low-temperature regeneration capacity. The work will include studies of adsorption mechanisms, binding thermodynamics, NO and NO₂ selectivity, and the effects of SO₂ interference using advanced characterization and adsorption techniques. The research will also address the durability of the sorbents under realistic gas mixtures containing pollutants, as well as the optimization of material formulations for additive manufacturing and pilot-scale implementation. The project has been awarded funding under the EIC Pathfinder Challenges for the transformation of waste into value creation.
JOB DESCRIPTION
As a doctoral student, you will be responsible for defining your daily tasks and how they are to be carried out. You will act and train as a project manager while also focusing on your own professional development. Participation in other projects and teaching will account for up to 20 percent of your time.
QUALIFICATIONS
The applicant must hold a Master of Science in Engineering or a Master’s degree in materials science, chemistry, or chemical engineering, as well as solid knowledge and experience in sorption, catalysts, and their characterization. The applicant must have excellent verbal and written communication skills in English. Experience in process engineering, porous materials, and synthetic chemistry is desirable.
INFORMATION
The doctoral position is a fixed-term appointment for 4 years; teaching and other departmental duties may be added up to 20% of full-time hours.
The doctoral position is at the Department of Engineering Sciences and Mathematics, Division of Materials Science. The position is based in Luleå.
For further information, please contact:
Professor Farid Akhtar, 0920-49 1793 mailto:farid.akhtar@ltu.se
Professor Alberto Vomiero, 0920-49 3139 mailto:alberto.vomiero@ltu.se
Union representatives:
SACO-S Diana Chroneer, 0920-49 2037 mailto:diana.chroneer@ltu.se
OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, 0920-49 1721 mailto:marika.vesterberg@ltu.se
Luleå University of Technology is actively committed to gender equality and diversity to foster a creative learning and working environment. The university’s core values are based on respect, openness, collaboration, trust, and responsibility.
APPLICATION
We prefer that you apply for the position using the application button below, where you should attach a cover letter, your resume/CV, and copies of your verified degree certificates. Please include the reference number below in your application. Both the application and degree certificates must be written in Swedish or English.
Application deadline: August 9, 2026
Reference number: 3877-2026