- "Advanced data analysis and modeling of information from computerized mining machines in underground mines"
Do you want to develop your research and teaching in an environment where collaboration with industry and society is a matter of course? With us, you will work with committed colleagues, access to modern research infrastructure and good opportunities to attract external funding. You will be given the opportunity to make a real difference for your students, your research and society at large.
Luleå University of Technology is one of Europe's leading universities in mining and rock engineering. The university offers a unique opportunity to develop knowledge and research skills in the entire mining chain - from exploration, mining, metal production, to land reclamation after mining operations have ended.
Description of subject
Mining and Rock Engineering covers mining engineering, rock engineering and rock mechanics, including rock mass properties, tunneling engineering, design and dimensioning of mines and rock facilities, and planning and production processes linked to both mining and infrastructure development.
Project description
It is very important that the applicant for this position has a strong interest and knowledge in data analysis, filtering and modeling based on large amounts of data. It is important that you have a solid understanding of mining and mining systems to also understand the end user requirements and needs when implementing developed technologies in an industrial environment.
Today's mining machines have become more advanced with computerized measurement and control systems that have the ability to monitor and measure machine performance. External equipment, such as 3D scanning, video recordings, bucket weight measurement systems, etc. that monitor production are widely used today. In modern mines, mining machines such as drilling rigs and loaders are often automated and controlled from central control rooms. Visualization and presentation of data-based information to decision makers and operators for active process control in a production environment is also an important part of utilizing this large amount of data.
The data logged from these rigs and loaders can provide detailed knowledge about the properties of the rock mass and the extracted material and can thus provide engineers and decision makers with important information for safety and productivity optimization.
For this position, mathematical, analytical and problem-solving skills are essential to understand and take advantage of this new data-intensive mining environment.
Duties
As a postdoctoral researcher in mining and rock engineering, you will contribute to research, scientific publication, educational activities and be part of our broad industrial network with a focus on future collaborative projects, both national and international. We offer a stimulating and dynamic research environment with an extensive national and international network and interesting research projects carried out in collaboration with industry.
Qualifications
To be eligible for employment, a PhD or equivalent foreign degree is required. Your previous education should include mining and rock engineering or similar subject appropriate to the project description above.
It is meritorious if your degree was obtained no more than three years before the closing date for this position. If there are special reasons, those who have obtained a PhD earlier may be considered, for example in case of various types of statutory leaves.
In addition to a PhD in the relevant subject, the following selection criteria will be used:
- Proven knowledge in mining engineering and production optimization.
- Proven mathematical, analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Good knowledge of statistics, AI/ML, and mathematical modeling and programming.
- Good knowledge of academic writing and reviewing scientific publications.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Practical mining experience is meritorious.
- Interest in and ability to work in a multidisciplinary and multilingual environment.
- Good knowledge of English, spoken and written. Documented skills e.g. study abroad, TOEFL test or similar are meritorious.
Information
For this position, a full-time employment period of two years applies. Place of employment: Luleå. Intended start date: By agreement, preferably around October 1, 2026.
For further information, please contact:
Professor Anna Gustafson, 0920-49 3309, anna.gustafson@ltu.se
Professor Håkan Schunnesson, hakan.schunnesson@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
Application
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 application and diplomas should be written in Swedish or English.
Date for application: August 15, 2026
Reference number: 3320-2026