We are looking for a PhD student in political science with an interest in sustainable natural resource management. You will be part of a newly launched research program, MiningBrines. The program offers innovative research training to meet Europe's strategic needs for sustainable access to critical raw materials, energy gases and renewable energy. The program will engage 19 PhD students in political science, geosciences, biogeochemistry, artificial intelligence and economics. The program emphasizes a collaborative doctoral education to meet the increasing need for qualified professionals who can transform geothermal multi-resources into a key driver of Europe's green transition.Description of subjectFor the established subject description see https://www.ltu.se/medarbetarwebben/organisation-och-styrning/forskningsamnen-och-utbildningsamnen#h-Inrattadeforskningsamnenochutbildningsamnen

https://www.ltu.se/download/18.46603a7c194d86f34fc493d7/1739805975921/%C3%84mnesbeskrivningar%20HS%20250301.pdf

Project descriptionThe overall aim of this PhD project is to analyze the various epistemic, economic, legal, political and social acceptance issues related to brine extraction projects through established qualitative and quantitative methods based on public opinion and local attitudes. The project comprises three main tasks: a) Identify key socio-economic and environmental factors in ongoing brine extraction, b) Integrate factors (socio-demographic, technological, resource-related), attitudes and values that influence the acceptability of multi-resource extraction projects into a model, and c) Use the model to assess impacts on the acceptability of brine extraction. You will have the opportunity to select the appropriate theory and make decisions on the operationalization of variables, methods and analysis. Although the tasks and objectives of the project are defined, you are encouraged to develop your own research questions and methodological approaches. For further information see https://miningbrines.eu/doctoral-candidates-dcs/Tasks You will participate in the MiningBrines joint program activities. Within your own subject of political science, you will have an individual study plan to follow. As a PhD student, you are expected to actively participate in the department's research environment, which means that you will practice scientific work in the form of publishing scientific articles in journals and at national and international conferences. You will also take compulsory and elective postgraduate courses. In addition, you may have the opportunity to try out the role of teacher. The location is Luleå, but the doctoral studies also mean that you will take courses elsewhere, as well as undertake study trips and conference trips to promote the development of valuable contacts, both in Sweden and internationally. You will also be given opportunities to work with and influence the activities of the department and the division.The work as a PhD student is problem-based. You will develop your skills to identify, delimit, formulate and address political science and interdisciplinary problems. You will also develop your skills in working with theoretical and analytical issues.QualificationsTo be admitted to the PhD program in Political Science at Luleå University of Technology, you are required to have a Master's degree in Political Science or a related subject, as well as very good skills in oral and written communication in Swedish and English. Selection and ranking among the applicants will be made taking into account the ability to benefit from doctoral education. Applicants will be assessed on the basis of the merits presented regarding the depth and breadth of their education and on their critical and analytical ability regarding scientific production. Experience in scientific writing and an understanding of and interest in issues related to natural resource management in relation to ecological, social and economically sustainable development is an asset.

As projects are part of the Marie-Curie Skłodowska Programme, you must comply with its rules:- Not have lived or carried out your main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the country of the recruiting organization for more than 12 months in the 36 months preceding the recruitment date.

- Not hold a doctoral degree at the time of recruitment.In addition to the above, the following are merits for the position:

- Strong grounding in political science theory and methods.

- Interest and ability to work across disciplines.

- Knowledge of natural resource policy and management, especially in relation to legitimacy, equity and acceptance.

- Ability to operationalize acceptance variables in quantitative and qualitative methods.

- Interest in developing advanced quantitative methodological skills (using for example R or Python).

- Good collaboration and initiative skills.InformationThe PhD position is fixed-term for 4 years. Teaching and other departmental duties will be added with up to 20% of full time. Place of employment: Luleå. The expected start date of the employment is September 2026.For further information, you are welcome to contact:Gregory Poelzer, Associate Professor, 0920-49 2918, mailto:gregory.poelzer@ltu.seFelicia Robertson, Postdoctoral Researcher, mailto:felicia.robertson@ltu.seSimon Matti, Professor and subject representative, 0920-49 2331,mailto:simon.matti@ltu.seJerry Blomberg, Head of Department, 0920-49 2335, mailto:jerry.blomberg@ltu.seFackliga representatives:SACO-S Diana Chroneer, 0920-49 2037, mailto:diana.chroneer@ltu.se OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, 0920- 49 1721 mailto:marika.vesterberg@ltu.seFör full advertisement visit https://www.ltu.se/ledigajobbApplicationWe prefer that you apply for the position via the application button below where you attach a cover letter, CV/resume, copies of verified diplomas, a critical analysis of an article of your choice, and two references (can be a former teacher or supervisor). Please mark your application with the reference number below.Reference number: 2541-2026Date of application: April 26, 2026