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.Subject description
Ore Geology includes the use, setting and mode of formation of naturally occurring economic concentrations of metallic raw materials. The research aims at describing the geological conditions that lead to economic concentrations of minerals, as well as how these minerals can be used for a sustainable societal development.
Project description
Norrbotten hosts numerous critical and strategic raw material (CRM) deposits within Paleoproterozoic cover sequences that overlie an Archaean basement. Existing structural models for the cover rocks predict that crustal-scale fault and shear zone systems extend into the basement and that structural inheritance played a fundamental role in controlling deformation, fluid flow and mineral system development. However, the geometry, kinematics, timing and tectonic significance of these inferred basement structures remain insufficiently constrained.
The objective of this PhD project is to test and refine existing structural models by explicitly incorporating the Archaean basement into a time-constrained, multi-scale structural framework. The project integrates:
- Regional geological mapping and structural analysis of the Archaean basement
- Geological 3D modelling of basement architecture
- Multi-scale deformation and microstructural analysis
- Targeted petrochronological studies on magmatic and deformation events
- Integration with regional geophysical models developed in parallel projects
Duties
A doctoral student position involves both theoretical and practical work. The doctoral student is trained in scientific research through publishing in peer-reviewed journals and presenting results at national and international conferences. The candidate will also take compulsory and elective doctoral courses and may participate in teaching or other departmental duties (maximum 20%).
Part of your roll includes:
- Plan, organize and execute field mapping campaigns independently, including logistics and safety considerations.
- Conduct systematic structural measurements, kinematic analyses and representative sampling.
- Integrate field observations into regional geological and structural framework models, perform multi-scale structural interpretation, and develop geological models consistent with regional tectonic frameworks.
Fieldwork will be conducted in rural and sparsely populated areas of northernmost Norrbotten, often in uneven terrain and variable weather conditions. A willingness and ability to work outdoors for extended periods under sub-Arctic conditions is essential.
Qualifications
We seek a motivated candidate with a strong background in structural geology and a clear interest in crustal-scale tectonics and mineral systems.
Eligible applicants must have obtained a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Earth Sciences with specialization in structural geology, tectonics, ore geology, or a closely related discipline.
Particular emphasis will be placed on documented skills in:
- Structural geology and kinematic analysis.
- Geological mapping and structural data acquisition in field.
- Geological 3D modelling.
- Multiscale geological data analysis
Experience working in crystalline basement terranes is considered a strong merit. Experience in geochronology is a merit. Experience from geological fieldwork in northern Sweden or similar sub-Arctic environments is advantageous.
The candidate must:
- Enjoy extensive fieldwork and be comfortable working in remote areas.
- Be capable of working independently and taking responsibility for planning and execution of field campaigns.
- Demonstrate analytical thinking and strong problem-solving skills.
- Be able to communicate scientific results clearly in English, both orally and in writing.
- Have a category B driving license
Written proof of good English language proficiency is required.
Personal suitability, independence, and the ability to take initiative will be given significant weight in the selection process.
For further information about a specific subject see
* General syllabus for the Board of the faculty of science and technology
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: August 2026
For further information about the position, please contact:
Dr Joel Andersson, Project leader
[email protected]
Prof. Tobias Bauer
[email protected]
Dr Edward Lynch
[email protected]
For the full version of the advertisement, see Job vacancies | Luleå tekniska universitet
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: March 31, 2026
Reference number: 2059-2026