Arbetsbeskrivning

Luleå University of Technology is in strong growth with world-leading competence in several research areas. We shape the future through innovative education and ground-breaking research results, and based on the Arctic region, we create global social benefit. Our scientific and artistic research and education are conducted in close collaboration with international, national and regional companies, public actors and leading universities. Luleå University of Technology has a total turnover of nearly SEK 2,1 billion per year. We currently have 1,900 employees and 18,700 students. In the coming years, multi-billion investments will be made in large projects in Northern Sweden to create a fossil-free society both nationally and globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these cutting-edge research projects and in the societal transformation that they entail. We offer a broad range of courses and study programmes to match the skills in demand. We hope that you will help us to build the sustainable companies and societies of the future.Subject description Applied Geochemistry is concerned with studies into the occurrence and mobility of the elements in rocks, soil, and water, focusing on methods to prevent or reduce the environmental impact of metal extraction and infrastructure development. Project description The extraction of critical raw materials (CRMs) is projected to rise across Europe. In Sweden, research is currently focused on exploring CRM ore deposits, with a particular emphasis on those containing rare earth elements (REEs). Sweden has significant potential to establish itself as a global leader in sustainable REE mining. Achieving this goal, however, requires the implementation of stringent environmental standards to minimize negative effects on surrounding ecosystems. Inadequate processing methods, poor mine waste management, and improper mine closure can result in serious environmental and public health risks.  You will evaluate ongoing research on the environmental challenges associated with ore types currently being explored in Sweden. You will also design a multidisciplinary framework to identify and prioritize CRMs that may pose environmental risks in the country. This framework will consider factors such as mineral occurrence, associated minerals of concern, geochemical behaviour, mobility, bioavailability, toxicity, and hydrogeological properties, and will be modelled after an assessment methodology developed by the USGS. Special focus will be put on REE in the project.  Duties - Evaluate ongoing research related to environmental issues associated with different CRM ore types, with special focus on REE - Develop a multidisciplinary framework to identify and prioritize CRMs that may pose environmental risks in Sweden, inspired by the assessment model developed by the USGS. - Integrate multiple lines of evidence, including data on the occurrence of CRMs, associated problematic minerals, geochemical behavior, bioavailability, toxicity and hydrogeology. - Apply the developed framework to identify CRMs of highest environmental concern and select the most urgent commodity for detailed study. - Investigate the identified CRM in detail to understand its environmental pathways and impacts, particularly concerning water quality. - Propose upstream mitigation strategies within the mining value chain to minimize or prevent adverse effects on downstream environments. - Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams within LTU and partner institutions to align the developed approach with ongoing national and international efforts. - The project is a part of CAMMCRM at LTU and the postdoc will attend workshops and seminares related to that. - Contribute to teaching and supervision, supporting courses and student projects within the subject area of environmental geochemistry and sustainable mining. Qualifications In order to be eligible for employment as post doctor you must have a PhD or a foreign degree equivalent to a PhD in applied geochemistry, hydrogeology, mineralogy or similar. A doctoral degree awarded no more than three years before the application deadline provides a useful qualification. 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. Required Qualifications - Competency in hydrogeology - Knowledge of near-surface geochemical weathering processes - Experience in water and soil sampling - Proficiency in data processing software such as IoGAS or equivalent - Experience with GIS software such as QGIS or similar - Knowledge of Critical Raw Materials - Good command of English, both written and spoken Meritorious Qualifications (Considered an Advantage) - Background in mineralogy - Understanding of different ore types and rock-forming minerals - Good command of Swedish, both written and spoken - Analytical techniques, such as SEM, XRD, ICP-MS, LA-ICP-MS, IRMS Further information Full-time fixed-term employment for two years with placement in Luleå. Starting: In April 2026 or as soon as possible after that For further information about the position, please contact Senior Lecturer Lina Hällström, +46 920-49 35 43, [email protected] Or Associate Professor Thomas Aiglsperger, +46 920 – 49 10 16, [email protected] Union representatives: SACO-S Diana Chroneer, (+46)920-49 2037 [email protected] OFR-S Marika Vesterberg,(+46)920-49 1721 [email protected] In case of different interpretations of the English and Swedish versions of this announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence. For the complete version of this advertisment, see this link: Job vacancies | Luleå tekniska universitet 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: February 28,2026 Reference number: 6943-2025