The Department of Work Science at Luleå University of Technology is seeking a postdoctoral researcher for an exciting research environment focused on the work environment, advanced technology, and sustainable societal development, to work on research projects addressing the human role in socio-technical systems and how these systems should be designed for sustainable green and digital transformation.
As a postdoctoral researcher in Work Science, you will be part of a research group in a dynamic research environment, collaborating closely with industry and universities around the world. The Department of Work Science at Luleå University of Technology was established in 1974 and currently has 24 employees engaged in research and education in both social and technical fields. Our research is highly interdisciplinary, and we foster close collaboration between engineers and social scientists. The research is often needs-driven, conducted in close proximity to the workplace, and in collaboration with stakeholders in the surrounding community—manufacturing companies, service providers, labor market partners, and other organizations and actors in the private, public, and nonprofit sectors. We have projects in areas such as industry (mining, forestry, steel, construction), health care, education, and retail. Organizationally, the research field of Work Science is part of the Division of People & Technology, which is part of the Department of Economics, Technology, Art, and Society at Luleå University of Technology. You can find more information about us on our website at http://www.ltu.se/arbetsvetenskap.
As a postdoctoral researcher, you will have excellent opportunities over a two-year period to build your academic credentials—primarily in research but also in teaching—within our research field.
Field Description
Work Science encompasses research on the work environment, technology and production systems, work organization, and other societal processes and environments, based on people’s circumstances and needs, with the aim of creating safe and attractive jobs and socially sustainable development in working life, industry, and society.
Project Description
As a postdoctoral researcher in Work Science, you will primarily work on a research project aimed at developing new knowledge about how AR can be used to support operations in underground mines. The project aims to develop and implement Augmented Reality (AR)-based maintenance support for drilling rigs. The goal is to optimize the interaction between people and technology to increase efficiency, safety, and precision in maintenance processes within the mining industry. The project integrates advanced AR technology with comprehensive change management strategies and user-centered UX design to ensure successful implementation and adoption. By combining Epiroc’s technical expertise, Boliden’s operational experience, and academic research, the project aims to create a solution that is not only technically innovative but also practically useful and well-received by maintenance personnel. The focus is on identifying critical information, optimizing the presentation of maintenance instructions and training materials, and establishing key parameters for improved maintenance. This is expected to lead to more efficient maintenance processes, increased safety, reduced downtime, and an improved user experience, which in turn will contribute to greater sustainability and competitiveness within the Swedish mining industry.
Job Responsibilities
The primary responsibility of a postdoctoral researcher is research. Teaching and educational development work may be included in the job responsibilities, accounting for no more than one-fifth of working hours. You will participate in and actively contribute to collaboration with both national and international partners, as well as with research groups within and outside Luleå University of Technology. In addition, you will have the opportunity to participate in applying for external funding.
Qualifications
To be eligible for this position, you must hold a Ph.D. or an equivalent foreign degree in work science or a related research field. It is considered an asset if your degree was awarded no more than three years prior to the application deadline for this position. In special circumstances, candidates who earned their doctoral degree earlier may be considered, for example, in cases of various types of legally mandated leave.
In addition, we would also like you to have
- very strong knowledge of both qualitative and quantitative methods
- experience independently applying for competitive grants
- experience leading projects or work groups
Strong oral and written communication skills in Swedish or English are required.
Great importance is also placed on suitability. Desirable personal qualities include good teamwork skills, the ability to take initiative, an interest in development work, and the ability and willingness to pursue an academic career.
Information
This position is a full-time appointment for two years, with the possibility of extension up to three years. Place of employment: Luleå. Expected start date: November 1, 2026.
A preliminary salary range is specified for each position https://www.ltu.se/om-universitetet/arbeta-hos-oss/att-soka-en-anstallning#salary information based on the position’s requirements, responsibilities, and market conditions.
For further information, please contact Professor Phillip Tretten, 0920-49 2855, mailto:phillip.tretten@ltu.se
https://www.ltu.se/om-universitetet/arbeta-hos-oss/att-soka-en-anstallning#h-Union Contacts
Application
We prefer that you apply for the position using the application button below, where you should attach a cover letter, your resume/CV, and copies of verified degree certificates. Please include the reference number below in your application. Both the application and degree certificates must be written in Swedish or English.
Application deadline: October 27, 2026
Reference number: 5037-2026