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 will help us build the sustainable businesses and societies of the future.
Applied Physics is part of the Division of Materials Science. Research focuses on atomic modeling, electron structure theory, condensed matter theory, astrophysics and fundamental theoretical physics.
The group you will join conducts research in materials chemistry for green applications and large-scale industrial processes. We use quantum chemical modeling to develop a fundamental understanding of materials and chemical reactions in catalysis and electrochemistry. We conduct both fundamental and application-oriented research in close collaboration with experiment and industry. You will be part of an innovative and international team.
Subject description
The subject covers physics with a focus on calculations and simulations that have close and broad links to applications and applied research.
Project description
You will use density functional theory modeling to build a fundamental understanding of electrochemical C-H activation in simple organic molecules across transition metal complexes. The projects goal is to build a mechanistic understanding that can be used to design new heterogeneous or homogeneous catalysts that can be synthesized and tested at our collaborators.
This recruitment is linked to the Wallenberg Initiative Materials Science for Sustainability (WISE, wise-materials.org). WISE, funded by the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation, is the largest ever materials science initiative in Sweden and will involve major investments at Sweden's top universities over the course of 10 years. The vision is a sustainable future through materials science.
Read more: https://wise-materials.org
Work tasks
As a Postdoctoral Researcher, you are expected to independently conduct scientific research and communication of results in the form of publication of scientific articles in journals and presentation at national and international conferences. Project planning and independent development of the research area is also an important part of the position.
Qualifications
We are looking for a Postdoc who is interested in working with catalysis. The research is on the border between chemistry and physics and takes place in close collaboration with experiments. Therefore, good communication skills are required and you should be able to work interdisciplinary.
You should have a PhD in chemistry, physics, materials science or similar. Your research requires experience with modeling of transition metal complexes and mechanistic studies. The research also requires good knowledge in at least one of the following subjects: Molecular Electrochemistry, Organometallic Chemistry or (homogeneous) Catalysis. Expertise in organic chemistry is an advantage. You should be fluent in spoken and written English.
A degree awarded not more than three years before the closing date for applications for this position would be an advantage. If there are special reasons, candidates with an earlier doctoral degree may be considered, for example in the case of various types of statutory leave.
Information to be provided
Employment as a Postdoctoral Fellow is limited to 2 years. Place of employment is Luleå. Access by agreement.
For further information, please contact Dr. Michael Busch, +46 (0)920-49 2978,
michael.busch@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
In case of discrepancies between the Swedish and English versions, the English version prevails.
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 English.
Deadline for applications: March 1, 2026
Reference number: 1602 - 2026