Luleå University of Technology experiences rapid growth with world-leading expertise within several research areas. Our scientific and artistic research and education are conducted in close collaboration with international, national and regional companies, the public sector and leading universities. Luleå University of Technology has an annual turnover of just over SEK 2.3 billion. We have more than 1,800 employees and nearly 21,600 students.
The Division of Materials Science at Luleå University of Technology invites highly motivated candidates interested in conducting research in Engineering Materials, with a focus on the design and structuring of advanced sorbent materials for environmental and gas-cleaning applications. The research subject "Engineering Materials" has ongoing research programs span broad research areas in metallic and ceramic materials (high-temperature intermetallic, space materials, high-strength steels, porous ceramic materials, and materials intended for energy recovery). The division is part of the Department of Engineering Science and Mathematics. The department has several other research topics with activities that border on material technology, such as materials mechanics and machine elements. In the undergraduate program, the main two programs focusing on the international profile of the Division of Materials Science are important for the department, namely the EEIGM master's engineering program and the AMASE master's program. Within these educations, many students perform project work and degree projects in projects related to our research. The research subject of Engineering Materials consists of five senior researchers, two technicians, and nine doctoral students.
SUBJECT DESCRIPTION
Engineering materials includes the composition, structure, properties and production of materials, mainly metallic and ceramic materials, as well as aspects of their use.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The PhD student will focus on the development of structured sorbent systems and additive manufacturing approaches for industrial NOx and SOx capture applications. The work will include formulation of printable sorbent inks and pastes with controlled rheological properties, integration of functional nanoparticles for induction-assisted regeneration, and fabrication of structured adsorbent geometries using advanced manufacturing techniques. The student will investigate how structural design, porosity, and mass-transfer properties influence adsorption performance, pressure drop, thermal management, and cyclic stability under humid process conditions. The project will further involve scale-up, process integration, and evaluation of structured sorbents in pilot-scale systems relevant to acid-plant and greenhouse CHP gas streams. The project is approved for funding in EIC Pathfinder challenges from waste to value creation.
TASKS
Working as a researcher involves defining your daily tasks and how they will be carried out. You will act and train as a project manager, combined with your development. Involvement with other projects and teaching will occur up to 20 percent of your time.
QUALIFICATIONS
Appropriate background for the position is a Master of Science degree in materials science, chemistry or chemical engineering, good knowledge, experience, on sorption and catalysts and their characterization and shaping of sorbents and catalysts. The candidate must be good at written and oral English. Experience in processing science, porous materials, and synthetic chemistry is advantageous.
INFORMATION
Employment as a doctoral student is time-limited to 4 years, teaching and other department duties can add up to 20% of full-time. Place of employment is Luleå at the Department of Engineering Science and Mathematics, Division for Materials Science.
For further information please contact:
Professor Farid Akhtar, +46 920-49 1793 mailto:farid.akhtar@ltu.se
Professor Alberto Vomiero, +46 920-49 3139 mailto:alberto.vomiero@ltu.se
Union representatives:
SACO-S Diana Chroneer, +46 920-49 2037 mailto:diana.chroneer@ltu.se
OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, +46 920-49 1721 mailto:marika.vesterberg@ltu.se
Luleå University of Technology works actively with gender equality and diversity, contributing to a creative study and work environment. The university's values are based on respect, openness, cooperation, trust and responsibility.
APPLICATION
We prefer that you apply for this position by clicking on the apply button below. The application should include a CV, personal letter and copies of verified diplomas from high school and universities. Mark your application with the reference number below. Your application, including diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish.
Application deadline: August 9, 2026
Reference number: 3887-2026