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 societies of the future. Luleå University of Technology is one of Europe's leading universities in geotechnics. The university offers an opportunity to develop knowledge and research skills in cold site geotechnics (frost, frost heave, frost heave, permafrost and snow mechanics), advanced soil mechanics (mechanical properties of sulphide soils, organic soils and tailings, etc. Subject description Geotechnical engineering includes soil mechanics, soil materials and foundation engineering, with applications in civil engineering, infrastructure construction, energy and mineral extraction. Project description In cold regions, linear infrastructure is often affected by frost heave in the ground, which can lead to cracking and uneven deformations. Significant frost heave during thawing can also impair the bearing capacity of the soil. In Sweden, this problem is most pronounced in the northern parts of the country. In order to predict frost heave with the SSR model, an SP value is required that is representative of the type of subsoil material, the actual field conditions at freezing, and the relevant geological context. SP values can be determined by advanced laboratory tests during freezing, but these tests are not always economically justifiable. Therefore, several studies have investigated simpler methods for estimating SP values using index tests. However, these studies are usually based on laboratory tests on saturated soil and do not take into account the distance to the water table, and often use temperature gradients that are too high to realistically represent field conditions. The aim of this research is to improve the estimation of SP values using index tests by taking into account realistic field conditions during freezing in Swedish climate, as well as considering the distance to the water table. Work tasks A PhD position involves both theoretical and practical work, such as field work. As a PhD student, you will be trained in scientific work and communication in the form of publishing scientific articles in journals and at national and international conferences. You also take compulsory and optional doctoral courses. Most of your working time is devoted to your own research studies. As a researcher, you will work as a neutral party in many contexts, which provides a great opportunity to learn how to run challenging development projects. As a PhD student, you may have the opportunity to try out the role of teacher. The role may include supervising students and teaching courses that fall under the research subject today and in the future. This is a full-time PhD position directly linked to the described project. Luleå University of Technology offers dedicated support through a qualified supervisory team and a structured PhD training program leading to a PhD in Geotechnics. Active participation in the international research community is strongly encouraged. Qualifications The basic eligibility requirements for doctoral studies are as follows: applicants must have 1) a second-cycle degree, 2) completed courses of at least 240 credits, of which at least 60 credits are at the second-cycle level, or 3) equivalent qualifications acquired either nationally or internationally. Knowledge of Swedish is an advantage. We are looking for a motivated person who can conduct research independently and in collaboration within our research group. Strong interpersonal skills and a background in geotechnical engineering, foundation engineering or a related field are essential. Applicants with practical experience and/or previous scientific publications are particularly merited. For further information on specific PhD programs see - curricula for doctoral studies in the Faculty of Engineering Information on the PhD program Employment as a doctoral student is limited to 4 years, teaching and other departmental duties may be added up to 20% of full time. Location Luleå with start according to agreement. For further information, please contact: Professor and Head of Department Jan Laue, 0920-49 1288, jan.laue@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 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: 2236-2025