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 Department of Computer Science, Electrical and Space Engineering is seeking a postdoctor to contribute to our growing activities. The position is located at the Division of Space Technology in Kiruna. The division offers a number of Master Degree programs in Space Science and Technology. The division conducts research in the areas of atmospheric science and space systems. The Space Systems group focuses on payloads, spacecraft and launchers for technology demonstration and utilisation as well as space applications and exploration in the upper atmosphere, Earth orbit and planetary space. The research and education activities are supported by high-quality infrastructure such as laboratory facilities for rocket propulsion, small satellites, asteroid engineering, and space avionics. Subject description Space systems includes systems for control, instrumentation and communication in the upper atmosphere and in space. Of particular importance are reliable, radiation resistant low-power electronic systems and miniaturization of these. Project description Luleå University of Technology started a multidisciplinary competence center in 2025 together with KTH and RISE in 6G and satellite communications, “Sustainable Mobile Autonomous and Resilient 6G SatCom”. Ericsson, Saab, Ovzon, Beyond Gravity, Forsway, Satcube, Swedish Space Corporation (SSC), NorthernWaves, Primekey, Airforestry, Post and Telecom Agency (PTS), European Incoherent SCATter Scientific Association (EISCAT), the Swedish Transport Administration, Forest Industries, Region Norrbotten, Region Västerbotten, Region Stockholm, Eutelsat-OneWeb, Airbus, Viasat and Thales Alenia Space also contribute to the project. The goal is to integrate traditional land-based mobile communications and space-based satellite communications in 6G, which is expected to be in use in the 2030s. The vision is that mobile communication services will be seamlessly available to anyone with a 6G device, anywhere and at any time. The focus will be on sustainability and energy efficiency, reliability and resilience, as well as system interoperability and always-on artificial intelligence. To achieve the vision, research will focus on improving the hardware for both 6G devices and space-based satellites, developing signal processing methods that handle large signal losses and are robust against space-based interference, developing network technology that integrates land and space systems, and developing new intelligent applications that combine communication, localization, and remote sensing. Duties We like to welcome an enthusiastic and adaptable post-doctoral researcher to join our interdisciplinary research group related to 6G satellite technologies and satellite constellations. The research will be conducted in collaboration with the institutional and industry partners of the multidisciplinary competence center and shall utilize in example simulations, testing facilities, and nano satellite platforms. As a post-doctoral researcher 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. In addition, you will be involved to contribute to teaching in courses delivered by the Space Systems subject at the first and second cycle level, supervision of Master and doctoral students, and work with grant applications for initiating new project-based research directions related to the research conducted within the Space Systems subject. The applicant is expected to participate in the group's joint development of the field of research and education and to collaborate with research groups both within the department, the university and with other universities, colleges and other external parties, both nationally and internationally. Qualifications To qualify for employment as a postdoctoral research fellow, a candidate must have a PhD, or doctoral degree or a foreign degree equivalent to a doctorate or doctoral degree in space technology, mainly with focus on small satellites. In the first instance, it should be considered that a doctorate has been awarded for a maximum of three years before the end of the application period. Assessment is based on the candidate’s research, teaching, and industrial projects’ potentials. However, emphasis shall be put to the qualities enabling the successful candidate to contribute to the future development of the small satellite research at Luleå University of Technology, pertaining to both research and education. Applicants should also have good communication skills in written and oral communications in English language. Further information Full-time fixed term employment for two years with placement in Kiruna. Starting: after agreement. For further information, please contact: Head of Division Victoria Barabash, +46 (0)980 67532 [email protected] or Chair Professor in Space Systems René Laufer, +46 (0)980-67582 [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 (including the contact details of at least two teachers and/or researchers that know you and can provide academic references, if requested), a motivation letter describing your background and research interests with respect to the PhD position, and copies of verified diplomas and transcripts from universities. Mark your application with the reference number below. Your application, including diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish. Closing date for applications: 3 May, 2026 Reference number: 2439-2026