Arbetsbeskrivning

Luleå University of Technology experiences rapid growth with world-leading expertise within several research areas. Our scientific and artistic research and education are conducted in close collaboration with international, national and regional companies, the public sector and leading universities. Luleå University of Technology has an annual turnover of just over SEK 2.3 billion. We have more than 1,800 employees and nearly 21,600 students.The research subject Process Metallurgy at the Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering is seeking a doctoral student to join our research focused on the hydrometallurgical extraction of lithium from primary and secondary raw materials, with the goal of producing active battery material. Subject description Process Metallurgy deals with the sustainable extraction of metals from primary and secondary raw materials using both pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical processes. Project description The doctoral project is part of the project ‘Separation and purification of primary and secondary Li for active battery material (Li‑PURE)’, funded by CAMM‑CRM CAMM CRM – Centre of Advance Mining and Metallurgy Critical Raw Material. Within the doctoral project, you will work on the development and demonstration of an integrated and resource‑efficient extraction method for lithium. The work focuses particularly on separation and purification processes for lithium from both primary materials and secondary materials, such as spent lithium iron phosphate batteries. The aim is to develop process solutions capable of producing battery‑grade lithium salts and enabling value enhancement of by‑products, with a particular focus on phosphorus. The project is based on a combination of hydrometallurgical separation techniques such as selective precipitation, ion exchange, electrodialysis, and crystallization, configured into flexible process flow schemes. Duties As a PhD student you are expected to perform both experimental and theoretical work within your research studies as well as communicate your results at national and international conferences and in scientific journals. Most of your working time will be devoted to your own research studies. In addition, you can have the opportunity to try the teacher’s role. As a researcher, you work as a neutral party in many contexts, which provides a great opportunity to be involved in challenging development projects. Qualifications To be eligible for the position, you must hold a Master's degree in metallurgy, chemical engineering, process engineering, chemistry, or other subjects deemed directly relevant to the position. Good oral and written communication skills in English are required. To succeed in this four‑year project, you need to be thorough, have logical reasoning skills, and possess strong problem‑solving abilities. Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive, and independence, as well as how your experience and competence demonstrate that you have the ability needed to successfully complete doctoral studies. 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. Starting: 2026-09-01 or according to agreement. For further information about the position, please contact Lena Sundqvist-Öqvist, professor, (+46)920-49 2045, [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. 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: 19 March 2026 Reference number: 2032-2026