PhD Student in Mining and Rock Engineering

LULEÅ TEKNISKA UNIVERSITET

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 Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering conducts research and education in mining, construction, and environmental engineering. The department has a strong experimental and applied profile, supported by well-equipped laboratories and close collaboration with industry. Approximately 70 % of the research is externally funded, and the department has extensive international collaboration. The Division of Mining and Geotechnical Engineering conducts research and education in rock mechanics, mining engineering, and geotechnical engineering, with a strong focus on the safe, efficient, and sustainable design of underground and surface excavations. The division works closely with industry to address practical engineering challenges and develop solutions for future mining and infrastructure projects.     Subject description   Mining and Rock Engineering comprises mining technology, rock engineering and rock mechanics, including rock mass properties, design of rock excavations and tunneling as well as planning and production processes related to both mining and civil engineering.     Project description   As underground mining operations at LKAB continue to greater depths, the rock mass is subjected to increasingly high in-situ stresses and dynamic disturbances, leading to elevated risks of seismic events and rockburst damage. There is therefore a growing need for improved understanding of ground support performance under both static and dynamic loading conditions.     This project aims to develop a mechanism-based and site-adapted framework for ground support design, focusing on energy absorption, deformation capacity, and system-level behaviour. The research will integrate laboratory testing, numerical modelling, and field observations from deep underground mines.     The expected outcomes include improved understanding of support performance, development of evaluation methodologies, and optimized support system design tailored to LKAB’s mining conditions.     Duties   As a PhD student, you will conduct both field data analysis and numerical research within the project. Your work will include:   - Development and application of numerical models for ground support systems (e.g. bolts, mesh, shotcrete, and rock mass interaction)   - Analysis and interpretation of laboratory testing results, including static and dynamic performance of support elements   - Participation in the design and evaluation of ground support systems for deep underground mining   - Collaboration with industry partners and integration of field data into research   - Dissemination of research results through scientific publications and conferences     Most of your working time will be devoted to your own research studies. You may also have the opportunity to contribute to teaching activities.     Qualifications   Required qualifications:   - Master’s degree in mining engineering, rock mechanics, geotechnical engineering, or in a related field   - Background in mechanics and/or numerical modelling (experience at different levels is welcome)   - Good written and verbal communication skills in English     Meritorious qualifications:   - Experience with numerical modelling tools (e.g. LS-DYNA, FEM, DEM)   - Knowledge of underground mining and rock support systems   - Experience with laboratory or field testing     Personal qualities:   - Ability to collaborate within a research team and develop independence over time   - Analytical and problem-solving skills   - Motivation to contribute to research with industrial relevance and real-world impact     For further information about a specific subject seehttp://www.ltu.se/research/Utbildning-pa-forskarniva/Studieplaner/Allmanna-studieplaner-Teknisk-fakultetsnamnd?l=en     Further information   Employment as a PhD student is limited to 4 years, teaching and other department duties may be added with max 20%. Placement: Luleå. Starting: according to agreement     For further information about the position, please contact Senior Lecturer Yang Zou, (+46) 920-49 3470, mailto:yang.zou@ltu.se or Professor Daniel Johansson, (+46) 920-49 2361, daniel.johansson@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     In case of different interpretations of the English and Swedish versions of this announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.     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.     Closing date for applications: July 31, 2026   Reference number: 3108-2026

Luleå Tekniska Universitet

- "Advanced data mining of computerized mining equipment in underground mines”   Do you want to develop your research and teaching in an environment where collaboration with industry and society is a natural part of the work? With us, you will collaborate with dedicated colleagues, have access to modern research infrastructure, and enjoy strong opportunities to attract external funding. You will have the space 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 metallurgy. The University offers a unique opportunity for developing, comprehensive research skills throughout the mining chain - from exploration, mining, processing and metal production, to recovery after completing mining activities.   Subject description  Mining and Rock Engineering comprises mining technology, rock engineering and rock mechanics, including rock mass properties, design of rock excavations and tunneling as well as planning and production processes related to both mining and civil engineering.   Project description It is very important that you who apply for this position have a great 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 end-user requirements and needs, when implementing developed technologies in an industrial environment.   Todays mining equipment has become more advanced with computerized control systems that have the ability to monitor and measure the machine performance. External equipment, such as 3D-scanning, video recordings, bucket weight measurement systems etc. monitoring production are today commonly used. In modern mines, equipment is also often automated and monitored and controlled from central control rooms. The visualization and presentation of data-based information to management and operators for decision making in a production environment, is also a very important part of the utilization of this large amount of data.   This vast logged data can provide detailed knowledge of the properties of the rock mass and 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 in order to understand and benefit from this new data intensive mining environment.   Duties As a postdoc you will contribute to research, publication and pedagogical activities, and will explore the wide industrial and research contacts of MRE towards future collaborative research projects, both national and international. We offer a stimulating and dynamic research environment with an extensive national and international network along with interesting, exciting research projects conducted in collaboration with the private and public sector.   Qualifications In order to be eligible for a postdoctoral position you must have a PhD degree or a foreign degree equivalent to a PhD. Your previous education should contain mining engineering or similar topic that is appropriate for the project description above.   Candidates who have been awarded a doctoral degree no more than three years before the application deadline will be given precedence. Candidates who have been awarded a doctoral degree at an earlier date may also be considered if there are special grounds, for example, different types of statutory leave of absence.   In addition to a PhD in in relevant subject, the following selection criteria will be used:  - Documented knowledge in Mining Engineering and production optimization - Documented mathematical, analytical and problem-solving skills. - Good knowledge of statistics, AI/ML, and mathematical modeling and programming. - Good knowledge in academic writing and reviewing scientific publications. - Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. - Practical mining-related experience is a plus. - Interest in and ability to work in a multidisciplinary and multilingual environment. - Good skills in English speaking and writing. Documented skills, TOEFL-test or similar is a plus.   Further information Full-time fixed term employment for two years with placement in Luleå, Sweden. Start date as agreed, preferably around October 1, 2026.   For further information about the position, please contact: Professor Anna Gustafson, (+46) 920-49 3309, anna.gustafson@ltu.se or Professor Håkan Schunnesson, hakan.schunnesson@ltu.se     Union representatives: SACO-S Diana Chroneer,(+46 ) 920-49 2037, diana.chroneer@ltu.se OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, (+46) 920-49 1721, marika.vesterberg@ltu.se   In case of different interpretations of the English and Swedish versions of this announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.   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.   Closing date for applications: August 15, 2026 Reference number: 3320-2026

LULEÅ TEKNISKA UNIVERSITET

Are you ready to take the next step in your academic journey? As a doctoral student with us, you will work closely with leading researchers in a strong, international research environment, with access to advanced laboratory equipment and solid funding opportunities. You will be offered secure employment, high-quality supervision, and room to grow, both as a researcher and as a person.   The Robotics and Artificial Intelligence subject, RAI, at the department of Computer Science and Electrical and Space Engineering at Luleå University of Technology, is now looking for a PhD student to contribute to our growing activities. The RAI team is conducting fundamental research in all the aspects of robotics with a specific focus on aerial, space and bioinspired robotics.   Subject description Robotics and Artificial Intelligence aim to develop novel robotic systems that are characterised by advanced autonomy for improving the ability of robots to interact with the surrounding environment and humans during the execution of specific tasks.   Project description The vision of RAI is aiming in closing the gap from theory to real life, while the team has a strong expertise in field robotics. Specific application areas of focus are multi-robot collaboration, autonomous search-and-rescue, robotics in mining, and the intersection of networks, communication, and intelligent autonomous swarms.The RAI team has a strong European and National participation in multiple R&D&I projects.   Duties As a PhD student you will perform research with substantial theoretical and experimental components that should be published in peer-reviewed major international journals and at major conferences. The position will include supervision of MSc and to assist in grant applications from research funding agencies/councils, the EU framework program or the industry. The position might also involve teaching assistance, seminars and presentations.   You will be working in the field of robotic autonomy, and all activities will be linked with National, European and worldwide R&D Projects.   The research topic is in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence. More specifically, the position will involve dense research activities in designing, experimenting and theoretical development, with the following research areas providing a template for relevant directions: The overall thematic area falls under the keyword Connected Swarms - Network-aware swarm logic - Distributed multi-robot collaboration - Human-Swarm Interaction and Intention-aware Swarms - Ad-hoc mesh connectivity and communication - Multi-role coordination (UAV, UGV, payloads)   Qualifications To be qualified for the position, you must have an MSc degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related subject. Proficiency in C++, Python, and ROS 2 is required. Strong scientific skills with proven excellence in real-life experimentation, as well as very good communication skills, are considered a strong plus. You will represent the group on different occasions, both in Sweden and worldwide, so very good command of English is a must.   For further information about a specific subject see http://www.ltu.se/research/Utbildning-pa-forskarniva/Studieplaner/Allmanna-studieplaner-Teknisk-fakultetsnamnd?l=en   Further information Employment as a PhD student is limited to 4 years, teaching and other department duties may be added with max 20%. Placement: Luleå. Starting: According to agreement   For further information please contact: George Nikolakopoulos, Chaired Professor, (+46 )920 49 1298 geonik@ltu.se   Union representatives: SACO-S Diana Chroneer,(+46 )920-49 2037 diana.chroneer@ltu.se OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, (+46)920-49 1792 marika.vesterberg@ltu.se   In case of different interpretations of the English and Swedish versions of this announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.   Application We prefer that you apply for this position by clicking on the apply button below. The application should include a CV with a full description of all the scientific merits of the candidate, motivation letter, list of 2 persons that could provide recommendation for the candidate and copies of verified diplomas from high school and universities. The diplomas must be written in Swedish or English. Your application must be written in Swedish or English. Mark your application with the reference number below.   Final day to apply: 16 August, 2026  Reference number:3812-2026