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 want to help us build the sustainable companies and societies of the future. The Materials Engineering research group is seeking motivated candidates for a PhD position focusing on characterization of novel eco-designed nano-bainitic steels. This PhD position is part of the EU project "AUSNANITE" (Low Carbon Footprint of Eco-Designed AUStempered NANostructured Bain/FerrITE Steels), a collaborative initiative involving leading universities and industries from Sweden, Spain and Germany. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in sustainable steel development, while working together with experts in the field. As a PhD student, you will be part of a dynamic and international research environment in close collaboration with industry and leading universities worldwide. The Materials Engineering research group is engaged in extensive research programs spanning a wide range of metallic and ceramic materials. We are part of the Division of Materials Science, which belongs to the Department of Engineering Sciences and Mathematics. The department has several other research areas relevant to materials research (e.g. mechanics of materials, machine elements and solid mechanics). Project description The project focuses on cutting-edge research aimed at developing new austempered steel alloys with medium carbon and high silicon content, while ensuring cost-effectiveness and industrial applicability. This research will explore the complex relationship between alloy composition, microstructure development and processing parameters using state-of-the-art techniques, including in-situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic probe tomography (APT) and advanced diffraction methods. Specifically, the research addresses how unusually high silicon contents in steel affect the distribution of carbon between the formed ferrite phase and the mechanically stabilized austenite by C-diffusion during different austempering processes, and how the nanostructures formed contribute to exceptional mechanical properties. Work tasks As a PhD student, you are expected to perform both experimental and theoretical work within your research studies. Most of your working time will be devoted to your own research studies. As a PhD student, you will be trained in scientific work, including publication in scientific journals and at national/international conferences. You will take compulsory and elective PhD courses, plan and carry out research projects more and more independently during your studies. You may have the opportunity to try out the role of a teacher. In this PhD position, you will engage in cutting-edge experimental research involving advanced characterization techniques such as transmission electron microscopy, atom probe tomography and X-ray diffraction. Your work will focus on deciphering the fundamental mechanisms governing the relationship between microstructure and properties in a new class of eco-designed steels. You will play a key role in revealing how composition, phase transformations and processing routes, especially austempering, affect steel performance. The project requires a solid understanding of: (i) Crystallography (ii) Phase transformations in steels (iii) Diffusion and thermodynamics. Qualifications A theoretical depth in materials science/materials physics and an experimental interest are desirable. Knowledge of thermodynamics, phase transformations and crystallography is important for this research project. Suitable background for the position is a Master's degree with specialization in materials engineering or equivalent. Experience in advanced microstructure characterization of metals is considered an advantage. We are looking for motivated and ambitious candidates with the ability to carry out high quality research, to work independently and in a team. Good communication skills and good English in speech and writing are essential. In the evaluation, particular attention will be paid to: - Knowledge and experience relevant to the current research project - Quality of thesis work - Communication and collaboration skills - Personal qualities relevant to research work For further information on specific doctoral education, see the study plans for doctoral education in the Faculty of Engineering Information about the position Employment as a doctoral student is limited to 4 years, teaching and other departmental duties can be added up to 20% of full time. Place of employment Luleå. Intended start date: September 1, 2025 For further information, please contact: Ilana Timokhina, Associate Professor, +46 920 49 2234, ilana.timokhina@ltu.se Richard Larker, Professor, +46 90 786 56 67, richard.larker@ltu.se Kumar Babu Surreddi, Assistant Professor, +46 920 49 3451, kumar.babu.surreddi@ltu.se Trade union representatives: SACO-S Diana Chroneer +46 920 49 2037 diana.chroneer@ltu.se OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, +46 920-49 1721 marika.vesterberg@ltu.se How to apply We prefer that you apply for the position via the application button below. Applications should include 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 should be written in Swedish or English. Deadline for applications: May 28, 2025 Reference number: 1888-2025