PhD Position in Engineering Materials Project: Development and Characterization of Advanced Sorbents

Luleå tekniska universitet; Luleå kommun; On-site; SEK 279,000 - 334,800; Full time

Job summary

Luleå tekniska universitet invites applications for a PhD position in Engineering Materials, focusing on the design of advanced sorbent materials for environmental applications. Candidates with a Master’s degree in materials science, chemistry, or chemical engineering are encouraged to apply.

The role involves conducting research on sorbent materials for selective gas capture, engaging in project management and potential teaching. Employment is offered for a period of 4 years, based in Luleå.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a relevant field is required.
• Experience in sorption and catalysts is important.
• Fluency in written and spoken English is essential.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on advanced sorbent materials for gas capture.
• Act as a project manager and contribute to teaching projects.
• Engage in daily research activities with team collaboration.

Skills

Sorption and catalysts characterization

Synthetic chemistry

Processing science

Fluent English

Education

Master of Science in materials science, chemistry or chemical engineering

Job description

The Division of Materials Science at Luleå University of Technology invites motivated candidates interested in conducting research in Engineering Materials, with a focus on the design and development of advanced sorbent materials for environmental and gas‑cleaning applications. The research subject “Engineering Materials” has ongoing research programs spanning broad 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, which has several other research topics 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 are the EEIGM master’s engineering program and the AMASE master’s program. Many students perform project work and degree projects related to our research. The research subject of Engineering Materials consists of seven senior researchers, two technicians, and eleven doctoral students.

Subject Description

Engineers materials includes the field of material composition, structure, properties and production of materials – mainly metallic and ceramic – as well as application aspects.

Project Description

The PhD student will focus on the synthesis, optimization, and characterization of advanced sorbent materials for selective NO_x and SO_x capture under humid industrial conditions. Based on computational design results provided by project partners, the student will develop functionalized activated carbons, ion‑exchanged zeolites, and MOF‑based hybrid composites with improved adsorption selectivity, moisture stability, and low‑temperature regeneration capability. The work will include investigation of adsorption mechanisms, binding thermodynamics, NO and NO₂ discrimination, and the effects of SO₂ cross‑interference using advanced characterization and adsorption testing techniques. The research will also address sorbent durability under realistic gas mixtures containing impurities, while optimizing material formulations for additive manufacturing compatibility and pilot‑scale implementation. The project is approved for funding in EIC Pathfinder challenges from waste to value creation.

DUTIES

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, with good knowledge and experience in sorption and catalysts and their characterization. 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.

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 9, 2026

Reference number

3877-2026

Contact

Professor Farid Akhtar — +46 920‑49 1793 — [e-mail]
Professor Alberto Vomiero — +46 920‑49 3139 — [e-mail]