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 Department of Engineering Sciences and Mathematics carries out research in areas such as wood, composites, metals, mechanics, and energy. Our engineering programs include Sustainable Energy Engineering and Mechanical Engineering. We have an international program in Materials Engineering, and among our newer programs is the Bachelor of Science in Power Engineering. The strong cooperation with industry provides students with an opportunity to work on real project tasks in their education. We are currently seeking a PhD-student that can help us to further develop research within the field of Machine Elements. The main aim of this PhD student position is to strengthen the newly started research on Triboelectrictive nanogenerator (TENG)-based smart lubrication in Machine Elements. Besides courses, the student will mainly carry out experimental work.
The department has about 300 employees and conducts research in 17 research subjects and seven centers of excellence. You can find us at campus in Luleå, Skellefteå and we are also responsible for the research at Green Fuels in Piteå.
Subject description
Machine Elements comprises the analysis and optimisation of machine components and component systems in order to enhance performance, longevity, energy-efficiency, reliability and sustainability. Particular emphasis is placed on issues in the field of tribology.
Project description
The project is about developing and applying TENG-based self-powered sensors or TENG-based energy harvesting methods for tribological applications. A sensor that produces its own power has a large role to play in the advancement of wearables, the Internet of Things, Industry 4.0, etc. The focus of this project is to apply this technology to machine components to give information about the operation. This could be general machine health as well as specific fault and failure signals. The aim of the project is to develop knowledge and understanding of the relationship between tribological signals (especially lubrication signals) and the working status.
Duties
The PhD student is expected to perform both experimental and theoretical work within research studies as well as communicate the results at national and international conferences and in scientific journals. Most of the PhD student's working time will be devoted to its own research studies. In addition, the PhD student can have the opportunity to try the teacher role. As a researcher, the PhD student works as a neutral party in many contexts, which provides a great opportunity to be involved in challenging development projects.
Qualifications
Applicants must have a master's degree in science or engineering (Materials science, Chemistry, Physics, Mechanical engineering, etc.), or equivalent. Good skills in oral and written communication in English are also a requirement.
The following selection criteria apply:
Background relevant to the project,
The quality of the applicant's master's thesis,
Personal qualities relevant to research education.
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 date upon agreement.
For further information, you are welcome to contact: Professor Yijun Shi, (+46) 920-492064, mailto:yijun.shi@ltu.se
https://www.ltu.se/en/about-the-university/work-with-us/applying-for-a-job#h-Tradeunioncontacts
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 scholarship by using the Apply button below. The application should include a CV, a personal letter, and copies of verified diplomas from high school and universities. Your application, including diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish. Mark your application with the reference number below.
Last day of application: 10 August 2026
Reference number: 3871-2026