PhD Student in Mining and Rock Engineering with special focus on underground hydrogen storage

Luleå University of Technology; Luleå kommun; On-site; SEK 350,000 - 420,000; Full time

Job summary

Luleå University of Technology, together with SGU and industry partners, invites applications for a PhD position in Mining and Rock Engineering focused on engineered underground hydrogen storage in lined rock caverns. The PhD candidate will work across rock mechanics, geophysics and energy systems, under excellent supervision at LTU in Sweden.

The position entails independent research using numerical modelling, laboratory tests and field investigations, with collaboration with researchers and

Qualifications

• MSc in a relevant field (Rock Mechanics, Civil/Mining Engineering, Solid Mechanics or related).
• Strong background in numerical modelling of rock/underground structures.
• Experience with numerical software (FLAC3D, 3DEC, Abaqus, COMSOL) is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent research via numerical modelling, laboratory testing and field investigations.
• Participate in site investigations in northern Sweden.
• Develop methodologies for evaluating storage sites and cavern designs.
• Publish findings in leading journals and present at conferences.

Skills

Numerical modelling

Communication skills in English

Independent work

Education

MSc degree in Rock Mechanics

MSc degree in Civil Engineering (geotechnical/underground)

MSc degree in Mining Engineering

MSc degree in Solid Mechanics

Tools

FLAC3D

3DEC

Abaqus

COMSOL

Job description

Luleå University of Technology, together with the Geological Survey of Sweden (SGU) and several Swedish industrial partners, is launching a multidisciplinary research project on natural hydrogen resources and underground hydrogen storage. We are seeking a motivated PhD candidate in Mining and Rock Engineering to contribute to interdisciplinary research spanning rock engineering, geophysics, geology and energy systems. The project offers a unique opportunity to work with leading researchers and industry partners while addressing one of the key technological challenges of the energy transition. As a doctoral student at Luleå University of Technology, you will receive excellent supervision, access to advanced research facilities, and opportunities to develop into an internationally recognized researcher.

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

For this PhD position, the research will focus on the development of engineered underground hydrogen storage in lined rock caverns (LRCs) excavated in hard crystalline rock. Your tasks are to:

• develop coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical numerical models to simulate hydrogen injection, storage and withdrawal
• evaluate the effects of operational loading on the integrity of steel liners, concrete and surrounding rock
• develop reference designs for lined rock caverns of different storage capacities together with scaling methodologies
• assess site‑specific performance under different geological conditions and providing design recommendations for future demonstration projects

The project is carried out in close collaboration between Luleå University of Technology, the Geological Survey of Sweden (SGU), and several Swedish industrial partners. The successful candidate will work closely with researchers specializing in rock mechanics, underground construction, geophysics and geology, while interacting regularly with industrial stakeholders.

As a PhD Student, You Will

• conduct independent research through numerical modelling, laboratory testing and field investigations
• participate in site investigations and data collection in northern Sweden
• develop methodologies for evaluating suitable storage sites and optimized lined rock cavern designs
• publish research findings in leading international scientific journals
• present research at national and international conferences
• complete doctoral coursework required for the degree

The majority of your working time will be devoted to doctoral research. Depending on departmental needs, you may also have the opportunity to gain experience in teaching and supervision.

You will become a member of the Network of Young Scientists (NYS) within CH2ESS, which organizes workshops, field excursions, interdisciplinary networking activities and professional development events.

Qualifications

Applicants must hold an MSc degree (or equivalent) in one of the following areas:

• Rock Mechanics
• Civil Engineering (with specialization in geotechnical engineering or underground construction)
• Mining Engineering
• Solid Mechanics
• or a closely related discipline

A strong background in numerical modelling of rock and underground structures is essential. Experience with finite element, finite difference or discrete element modelling (e.g., FLAC3D, 3DEC, Abaqus, COMSOL or similar software) is considered an advantage.

The Successful Candidate Should Demonstrate

• strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
• enthusiasm for scientific research
• ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams
• excellent communication skills in written and spoken English

Knowledge of Swedish is considered an advantage because some fieldwork, industrial interaction and teaching activities may require communication in Swedish, but it is not a mandatory requirement.

For further information about a specific subject see General syllabus for the Board of the faculty of science and technology

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. The expected start date for the position is October-December 2026.

For each position, a preliminary salary range is provided based on the requirements, responsibilities, and market conditions associated with the role.

For Further Information About The Position, Please Contact

Professor Ping Zhang, [phone], [e-mail]

Professor Daniel Johansson, [phone], [e-mail]

Union representatives

In case of different interpretations of the English and Swedish versions of this announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.

Closing date for applications: September 20, 2026

Reference number: 4286-2026