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 that you will help us build the sustainable companies and societies of the future. We are looking for a PhD student in design who wants to contribute to a more equal and attractive construction sector through research within the Build Equal project. The project focuses on developing and applying inclusive design methods in close collaboration with companies in northern Sweden, a region in green transition where the construction industry plays a crucial role. Topic description For the subject description of the subject design, see link https://www.ltu.se/en/research/research-subjects/design. Project description As a PhD student, you will work with participatory design (co-design) and other practice-oriented research methods to explore and create design solutions that promote diversity, accessibility and the innovation power of the construction sector together with actors in the industry. We would like you to have experience or interest in the conditions and complexities of the construction sector, and to use design as a tool for change in practice. The research is interdisciplinary and combines critical reflection with creative making, where design is seen as both an analytical tool and a driver of change in the work for a more inclusive labor market and a more sustainable society. Work tasks A PhD position involves both theoretical and practical work, with the goal of completing a doctoral thesis. You will be trained in scientific work through doctoral courses, publication of scientific articles, presentations at national and international conferences, and exploration through design work communicated in different forms and media, such as exhibitions, prototypes, performances, films, etc. Qualifications The general entry requirements for doctoral studies are met by those who have completed a second-cycle degree, have completed course requirements of at least 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 higher education credits are at second-cycle level, or have acquired essentially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad. See entry requirements in the current general syllabus for the subject design here. The position requires solid experience of design work, for example, your own design work, employment in industry or as a consultant, which you must be able to communicate via a portfolio. The applicant must be motivated to pursue doctoral studies, be able to express themselves orally and in writing in both Swedish and English, and have good collaboration and communication skills. An important criterion for appointment will be the ability to benefit from the doctoral program. Applicants are invited to submit a short research proposal that highlights specific areas of interest and clearly shows how these can be explored within the framework of the Build Equal project. The research proposal should include: - Introduction outlining your design philosophy related to sustainability and social transformation in the North and your chosen research questions. - Research overview of relevant design research. - Implementation. What design practices, studies, methods and techniques you intend to use and/or develop. - Potential contribution of your research to the field of design and sustainability practice. - Portfolio of your previous work. Your research proposal will be instrumental in our assessment of your suitability for the PhD program in Design. We are looking for candidates who are prepared to challenge conventions and norms, who are creative in their exploratory practice and who have a strong desire to push the boundaries of the role of design in sustainable societal transformation. For more information Employment as a doctoral student is limited to a maximum of 4 years, teaching and other departmental duties may be added up to 20% of full time. Place of employment Luleå. Expected to start in the fall of 2025. For further information, you are welcome to contact: Subject representative Åsa Wikberg Nilsson, 0920-49 1342, asa.wikberg-nilsson@ltu.se or Head of Department Jörgen Normark, 0920-49 1480, jorgen.normark@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 Application form We prefer that you apply for the position via the application button below where you attach a cover letter, CV/resume and copies of verified diplomas. Please mark your application with the reference number below. Both the application and the diplomas must be written in Swedish or English. Deadline for applications: July 17, 2025 Reference number: 2810-2025