Luleå University of Technology is growing rapidly with world-leading expertise in several research areas. 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 an annual turnover of over SEK 2.3 billion. We are more than 1,800 employees and have nearly 21,600 students.
The Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering conducts research and education in the mining, construction and environmental fields. The department has a strong experimental and applied profile, with well-equipped laboratories and close collaboration with industry. About 70% of the research is externally funded and we have extensive international collaborations. The Division of Geotechnology conducts research and education in rock mechanics, mining engineering and geotechnics, with a strong focus on safe, efficient and sustainable design of underground and open pit facilities. The department works closely with industry to address practical engineering challenges and develop solutions for future mining and infrastructure projects.
Description
Mining and Rock Engineering covers mining engineering, rock engineering and rock mechanics, including rock mass properties, tunneling engineering, design and dimensioning of mines and rock facilities, and planning and production processes related to both mining and infrastructure development.
Project description
As mining at LKAB takes place at increasing depths, the rock mass is exposed to increasing in-situ stresses and dynamic disturbances, which entails an increased risk of seismic events and rock falls. There is therefore a growing need for an improved understanding of the performance of rock reinforcement under both static and dynamic loading.
The project aims to develop a mechanism-based and site-specific framework for the design of rock reinforcement, focusing on energy absorption, deformation capacity and system behavior. The research will integrate laboratory experiments, numerical modelling and field observations from deep underground mines.
The expected results include an improved understanding of the performance of reinforcement systems, development of evaluation methods and optimized solutions adapted to LKAB's conditions.
Duties
As a PhD student you will work with both analysis of field data and numerical modeling within the project. The tasks include:
- Development and application of numerical models for rock reinforcement systems (e.g. Development and application of numerical models for rock reinforcement systems (e.g. bolts, mesh, shotcrete and interaction with rock mass)
- Analysis and interpretation of laboratory results, including static and dynamic performance of reinforcement elements
- Participation in the design and evaluation of rock reinforcement in deep mine environment
- Collaboration with industrial partners and integration of field data into research
- Dissemination of research results through scientific publications and conferences
The main part of the working time is devoted to own research studies. Teaching and other departmental duties may be included.
Qualifications
Requirements:
- Master's degree in mining engineering, rock mechanics, geotechnical engineering or related field
- Knowledge in mechanics and/or numerical modeling (experience at various levels welcomed)
- Good ability to express oneself orally and in writing in English
Additional:
- Experience with numerical modeling tools (e.g.e.g. LS-DYNA, FEM, DEM)
- Knowledge of underground excavation and rock reinforcement systems
- Experience in laboratory or field work
Personal qualities:
- Ability to collaborate in a research group and develop independence over time
- Analytical and problem-solving skills
- Motivation to contribute to research with industrial relevance and practical significance
For further information on specific PhD programs see http://www.ltu.se/research/Ututbildning-pa-forskarniva/Studieplaner/Allmanna-studieplaner-Teknisk-fakultetsnamnd
Information
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: according to agreement.
For further information, please contact Senior Lecturer Yang Zou, 0920-49 3470, mailto:yang.zou@ltu.se or Professor Daniel Johansson, 0920-49 2361, mailto:daniel.johansson@ltu.se
Union representative:
SACO-S Diana Chroneer, 0920-49 2037, mailto:diana.chroneer@ltu.se
OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, 0920-49 1721, mailto:marika.vesterberg@ltu.se
Application
We prefer that you apply for the position via the application button below where you attach a cover letter as well as CV/resume and copies of verified diplomas. Please mark your application with the reference number below. Both application and diplomas should be written in Swedish or English.
Date for application: July 31, 2026
Reference number: 3108-2026