Luleå University of Technology is growing rapidly with world-leading expertise in several research areas. We shape the future through innovative education and groundbreaking research results, and based on the Arctic region, we create global social benefits. 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 a total turnover of almost SEK 2.1 billion per year. We are currently 1,900 employees and have 18,700 students.
In the coming years, billions of kronor will be invested in Norrbotten and Västerbotten in major projects aimed at a more sustainable society nationally as well as globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these highly topical research projects and the social transformation that follows. We have a wide range of programs to match the skills that are in demand. We hope you will help us build the sustainable businesses and communities of the future.
The research subject Urban Water Engineering at the Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, is looking for a driven and committed doctoral student who wants to immerse themselves in issues related to how sustainable management of stormwater sediments can contribute to improved water quality. Take the opportunity to belong to one of the leading stormwater research groups in the world with an international, creative and dynamic environment in close collaboration with industry and universities worldwide.
The research subject Urban Water Engineering has a strong position in research and education in urban water systems, mainly in the areas of stormwater and wastewater systems. The group includes about 50 people consisting of a number of senior researchers, Swedish and international adjunct professors and about 20 PhD students. The group has an extensive national and international collaboration network. The overall objective of the group is to contribute to the development of sustainable urban water systems. For more information, see: www.ltu.se/vatten
Subject description
Urban water engineering covers the entire urban water system (stormwater, drinking water and wastewater) with regard to collection, transport and treatment, and organization/planning. The research aims at a good socio-economy and environment, wise use of resources and the safety and health of citizens.
Project description
Stormwater transports a wide range of pollutants from urban environments, posing major challenges for the protection of surface and groundwater. The management of sediments transported by stormwater is a complex issue involving practical, legal and environmental challenges, which means that the water and wastewater industry has a strong interest and involvement in the project. Sediment acts as a carrier and source of pollutants, making safe and environmentally sound management crucial.
The work within the project includes evaluation and development of technical solutions for sediment management as well as detailed characterization of sediments from different types of stormwater facilities and roads to understand the properties and potential for circular use. The long-term goal is to create conditions for circular sediment management, reduce the spread of pollutants to surface and groundwater and optimize maintenance of stormwater systems.
Within this project, the PhD student will be involved in collaboration with a network of national actors in the water and wastewater industry and communicate results both with the industry and international researchers through LTU's strong established competence network.
Work tasks
A PhD position involves both theoretical and practical work. As a PhD student, you will be trained in scientific work in the form of data collection and analysis, as well as writing and publishing scientific articles and at national and international conferences. You will also take a number of doctoral courses. In addition, you may have the opportunity to try out the role of teacher and/or work on other research projects as a departmental position. Along the way, you will have two or three supervisors to support you in your work. The research work for this project will specifically involve experimental work (planning, organizing and carrying out, for example, sediment sampling, lab studies and pilot experiments).
Qualifications
Applicants should have a Master's degree with specialization in Environment and Water, Natural Resources Engineering, Civil Engineering, Road and Water, Chemistry, or other specialization deemed equivalent. Specific knowledge of stormwater management, urban pollution sources and the environmental behavior of pollutants, as well as experience of sampling, analytical chemistry, laboratory work and statistics is an advantage. Furthermore, good ability to work independently and drive projects forward and to familiarize yourself with new issues is needed.
The position requires good knowledge of English, as the research results will be presented at international conferences and in English-language scientific journals. Knowledge of Swedish or another Scandinavian language is an advantage. Having a driving license for a car is an advantage.
The applicant must be able to provide contact details for two referees upon request.
For further information on specific doctoral studies, see the study plans for doctoral studies in the Faculty of Engineering
Information to be provided
Employment as a doctoral student is a fixed-term position of 4 years, teaching and other departmental duties may constitute a supplement corresponding to up to 20% of the original scope. Place of employment Luleå. Intended start: Spring 2026
For further information, please contact Associate Senior Lecturer Alexandra Müller 0920-49 30 78,
alexandra.muller@ltu.se
Trade union representative
SACO-S Diana Chroneer, 0920-49 2037
diana.chroneer@ltu.se
OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, 0920-49 1721
marika.vesterberg@ltu.se
How to apply
We prefer that you apply for the position via the application button below where you attach a cover letter, CV/resume and copies of diplomas. Please mark your application with the reference number below. Both the application and the diplomas should be written in Swedish or English.
Deadline for applications: February 22, 2026
Reference number: 659-2026