PhD Student in Mining and Rock Engineering

Luleå tekniska universitet - Platsbanken; Luleå kommun; On-site; SEK 312,480 - 390,600; Full time

Job summary

Luleå tekniska universitet - Platsbanken is seeking a PhD Student in Mining and Rock Engineering to develop innovative ground support designs for underground mining. Candidates should possess a Master's degree in a relevant field, along with experience in mechanics and numerical modeling tools. Responsibilities include developing numerical models, conducting laboratory analyses, and collaborating with industry partners. The position allows for a maximum of 20% departmental duties and is based in Luleå.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in mining engineering, rock mechanics, geotechnical engineering, or a related field.
• Background in mechanics and/or numerical modelling.
• Good written and verbal communication skills in English.

Responsibilities

• Development and application of numerical models for ground support systems.
• Analysis and interpretation of laboratory testing results.
• Collaboration with industry partners.

Skills

Master's degree in mining engineering

Background in mechanics and/or numerical modelling

Good communication skills in English

Experience with numerical modelling tools

Knowledge of underground mining

Experience with laboratory or field testing

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Education

Master's degree in relevant field

Tools

LS-DYNA

FEM

DEM

Job description

PhD Student in Mining and Rock Engineering

Mining and Rock Engineering comprises mining technology, rock engineering and rock mechanics, including rock mass properties, design of rock excavations and tunnelling as well as planning and production processes related to both mining and civil engineering.

As underground mining operations at LKAB continue to deeper 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 to improve support performance, develop evaluation methodologies, and optimise support system design tailored to LKAB's mining conditions.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in mining engineering, rock mechanics, geotechnical engineering, or a related field.
• Background in mechanics and/or numerical modelling (experience at different levels is welcome).
• Good written and verbal communication skills in English.
• 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.
• 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.

Employment as a PhD student is limited to four years; teaching and other department duties may be added with a maximum of 20% of the working time. Placement: Luleå. Starting: according to agreement.

Reference number: 3108-2026