Are you ready to take the next step in your academic journey? As a doctoral student with us, you’ll work closely with leading researchers in a strong, international research environment, with access to advanced lab equipment and excellent funding opportunities. You’ll be offered secure employment, high-quality supervision, and the opportunity to grow, both as a researcher and as a person.
The Department of Engineering Sciences and Mathematics conducts research in areas such as wood, composites, metals, mechanics, and energy. Our engineering programs include, among others, sustainable energy engineering and mechanical engineering. We have an international program in materials engineering, and among our newer degree programs is the Bachelor of Science in Electrical Power Engineering. Our strong collaboration with industry gives students the opportunity to work on real-world projects during their studies. We are now seeking a doctoral student who can help us further develop our research in the field of Machine Elements. The main purpose of the doctoral position is to strengthen the recently established research area in triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG)-based smart lubrication within Machine Elements. In addition to coursework, the doctoral student will primarily conduct experimental work.
The department has approximately 300 employees and conducts research in 17 research areas and seven centers of excellence. We operate on campuses in Luleå and Skellefteå, and we are also responsible for research at Green Fuels in Piteå.
Subject Description
Mechanical Components involves the analysis and optimization of machine components and component systems based on performance, service life, energy efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. Particular emphasis is placed on issues within the field of tribology.
Project Description
The project focuses on developing and applying TENG-based self-powered sensors or TENG-based methods for energy harvesting in tribological applications. A sensor that generates its own energy has an important role to play in the development of wearable technology, the Internet of Things, Industry 4.0, and more. The focus of this project is to apply this technology to machine components to provide information on operational status. This may include both general machine health and specific signals related to faults and failures. The project’s goal is to develop knowledge and understanding of the relationship between tribological signals—particularly lubrication signals—and operational status.
Job Responsibilities
The doctoral student is expected to conduct both experimental and theoretical work within the framework of research studies, as well as to communicate research results at national and international conferences and through scientific publications. Most of the doctoral student’s working hours will be devoted to their own research. In addition, the doctoral student may be given the opportunity to gain experience in teaching and other educational tasks. As a researcher, the doctoral student acts as an independent and neutral party in many different contexts, which provides excellent opportunities to participate in high-level and challenging development projects.
Qualifications
Applicants for this position must hold a master’s degree in natural sciences or engineering, such as materials science, chemistry, physics, mechanical engineering, or an equivalent field. Strong oral and written communication skills in English are also required.
The following selection criteria apply:
- Background relevant to the project
- Quality of the applicant’s master’s thesis
- Personal qualities relevant to doctoral studies
Information
The position as a doctoral student is limited to 4 years; teaching and other departmental duties may be added up to 20% of full-time employment. Place of employment: Luleå. Expected start date to be agreed upon.
For further information, please contact: Professor Yijun Shi, 0920–492064, mailto:yijun.shi@ltu.se
https://www.ltu.se/om-universitetet/arbeta-hos-oss/att-soka-en-anstallning#Union representatives
Application
We encourage you to apply for this doctoral position by using the application button below. Your application must include a resume, a cover letter, and copies of verified high school and university diplomas. Your application, including your diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish. Please mark your application with the reference number below.
Application deadline: August 10, 2026
Reference number: 3871–2026