climate change and adaptation in urban watersheds
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 will help us build the sustainable companies and societies of the future.
The research subject Urban Water Engineering is looking for a driven and committed doctoral student who wants to immerse themselves in questions about how small watercourses in urban areas are affected by climate change and how these changes can be predicted and managed. Take the opportunity to belong to one of the leading stormwater research groups in the world with an international, creative and dynamic environment in close collaboration with industry and universities worldwide.
The research subject Urban Water Engineering has a strong position in research and education in urban water systems, mainly in the areas of stormwater and wastewater systems. The group includes about 50 people consisting of a number of senior researchers, Swedish and international adjunct professors and about 20 PhD students. The group has an extensive national and international collaboration network. The overall goal of the group is to contribute to the development of sustainable urban water systems. For more information see www.ltu.se/vatten
Subject description
Urban water engineering covers the entire urban water system (stormwater, drinking water and wastewater) with regard to collection, transport and treatment as well as organization/planning. The research aims at a good socio-economy and environment, wise use of resources and the safety and health of citizens.
Project description
Urbanization has a major impact on smaller watercourses flowing through cities, which are burdened with larger amounts of stormwater runoff and often have reduced capacity through culverts and other adjustments to the natural flow path. This can contribute to urban flood risks, which are also expected to increase as a result of climate change, which may bring more intense rainfall and changes in snowmelt patterns. Various climate adaptation measures such as dams can be built to manage the risks, but the combined effect of urbanization, climate change, and adaptation measures remains complex and needs further investigation.
The research project will consist of (1) field measurements along urban streams in Umeå where different climate adaptation measures are planned and (2) hydrological and hydraulic modeling of streams and climate adaptation measures for current conditions and different future climate scenarios. Results from the project will contribute to better estimates of how urban watersheds and different climate adaptation measures interact. The project is carried out in collaboration with water management organizations in Umeå municipality.
Within this project, the PhD student will be involved in collaboration with international researchers and communicate results with the industry through LTU's strong established competence network.
Work tasks
A PhD position involves both theoretical and practical work. As a PhD student, you will be trained in scientific work in the form of data collection and analysis, as well as writing and publishing scientific articles and at national and international conferences. You will also take a number of doctoral courses. In addition, you may have the opportunity to try out the role of teacher and/or work on other research projects as a departmental position. Throughout the program, you will have two or three supervisors to support you in your work.
The research work for this project will specifically include experimental work (planning, organizing and conducting flow measurements in small streams) and hydraulic/hydrological modelling including investigation of different modelling approaches.
Qualifications
Applicants should have a Master's degree in Environmental and Water Engineering, Natural Resources Engineering, Civil Engineering, Road and Water Engineering, or another field deemed equivalent. Specific knowledge of hydrology, stormwater management, basic programming (e.g. Matlab or Python) and/or experience of performing flow measurements or similar is an advantage. Furthermore, good ability to work independently and drive projects forward and to familiarize yourself with new issues is needed.
The position requires good knowledge of English, as the research results will be presented at international conferences and in English-language scientific journals. Knowledge of Swedish or another Scandinavian language is an advantage. Having a driving license for a car is an advantage.
The applicant must be able to provide contact details for two referees upon request.
For further information on specific doctoral programs see
curricula for doctoral studies in the Faculty of Engineering
Information on the PhD program
Employment as a doctoral student is a fixed-term position of 4 years, teaching and other departmental duties may constitute a supplement corresponding to up to 20% of the original scope. Place of employment Luleå. Intended start: Spring 2026
For further information, please contact Associate Senior Lecturer Ico Broekhuizen 0920-49 35 70,
ico.broekhuizen@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
For full version of the ad see: Vacancies | Luleå University of Technology
How to apply
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 diplomas. Please mark your application with the reference number below. Both the application and the diploma must be written in Swedish or English.
Deadline for applications: February 22, 2026
Reference number: 640-2026