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 want to help us build the sustainable companies and societies of the future. We are now looking for a PhD student in Ore Geology to conduct new research focusing on critical raw materials (CRMs). The PhD project involves investigation of metamorphic graphite mineralization in northern Sweden, focusing on the formation of mineralization systems and graphite characterization. The emphasis is on investigating the geological evolution, metamorphic history and mineralogical composition of a metamorphic graphite deposit in order to understand the geological processes that give rise to high-crystalline, natural graphite. The PhD project is part of a broader research initiative (Sustainable Supply of CRMs) that aims to integrate ore geology, political science and law to jointly investigate whether and how critical raw materials can be extracted and recycled in a sustainable and fair manner. This part of the project involves three PhD students - one in ore geology, one in political science and one in law - conducting research in their respective fields, but also participating in joint interdisciplinary activities together with supervisors and colleagues from the three research environments. Subject description Ore geology encompasses the use, behavior, occurrence and mode of formation of naturally occurring economic concentrations of metallic raw materials. The research aims to describe the geological conditions that lead to mineable concentrations of minerals, as well as how these minerals can be used for sustainable social development. Project description Northern Sweden contains several metamorphic graphite deposits within Paleoproterozoic metasupracrustal sequences. This project focuses on the formation of the Nunasvaara graphite deposit in northern Norrbotten, one of Europe's most significant natural graphite deposits and an EU designated strategic CRM project. The work combines field mapping, structural geology and geochronology with petrography, rock and mineral characterization (lithogeochemistry, XRD), and detailed microanalysis (e.g. SEM-WDS, microprobe, Raman spectroscopy, SIMS). The PhD student will integrate these methods to understand how sedimentary processes, deformation and metamorphism interact in the formation of natural graphite, and affect its crystallinity and quality. The results from the project will provide new knowledge on the tectonic and metamorphic evolution of Paleoproterozoic greenstone belts in northern Fennoscandia and the formation of metamorphic graphite deposits. The project is carried out in cooperation with Talga Group and their exploration geologists. Work tasks A PhD position includes both theoretical and practical work. The PhD student is trained in scientific work by publishing articles in scientific journals and presenting research results at national and international conferences. The doctoral student also takes compulsory and elective courses at doctoral level. The successful candidate may also have the opportunity to teach or carry out other education-related tasks. As a PhD student, you will work independently in many contexts, providing an excellent opportunity to learn how to manage and run a research project. The main part of the working time is devoted to own research. The project work mainly includes geological field mapping, sampling, sample preparation, geochemical analysis, microanalytical characterization and scientific writing. As fieldwork in hilly terrain and sometimes adverse weather conditions is involved, good physical ability and willingness to work outdoors are essential. Qualifications We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a strong interest in structural and metamorphic geology, and in the integration of analytical and field-based methods. Qualified candidates for the position should have an excellent academic record and have recently completed a Master's or equivalent degree in Earth Sciences with a specialization in mineralogy, petrology, ore geology or other relevant subjects. Geological mapping with a focus on structures is an important part of the PhD project, and experience in this is an advantage. Experience with analytical methods (e.g. XRD, Raman) is also highly meritorious. It is important that the applicant can express him/herself well in English, both orally and in writing. Therefore, written proof of good knowledge of English is required (e.g. language test certificate, relevant grades or a letter of recommendation). For more information on specific postgraduate studies, see: General Study Plan Ore Geology.pdf Information about the program 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 is Luleå. Intended access 2025-02-01. For further information, you are welcome to contact: Professor Christina Wanhainen, +46 (0)920-49 24 01, christina.wanhainen@ltu.se Dr. Edward Lynch, +46 (0)920-49 23 33, edward.lynch@ltu.se For full advertisement variant see link: Vacancies | Luleå University of Technology 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: November 23, 2025. Reference number: 4446-2025