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Doctoral student in applied geophysics
Luleå University of Technology
Visit university websitePhysicsGenetics & GenomicsEarth & GeosciencesChemistry
Luleå, Sweden
Application Deadline:2026-09-30
Are you ready to take the next step in your academic journey? As a doctoral student with us, you get to work closely with leading researchers in a strong and international research environment, with access to advanced lab equipment and good funding opportunities. You are offered secure employment, high-quality supervision and room to grow, both as a researcher and as a person.
Luleå University of Technology, together with the Geological Institute and several Swedish industrial partners, is starting an interdisciplinary research project on the development of natural hydrogen resources and underground storage of hydrogen.
We are looking for a highly motivated PhD student in applied geophysics who wants to contribute to this exciting project, which offers a unique opportunity to work together with leading researchers and industry partners to tackle one of the most important challenges in the energy transition.
As a doctoral student, you get excellent supervision, access to advanced research resources and opportunities to develop into an internationally recognized researcher.
Subject description
Applied geophysics includes studies of how the laws and methods of physics can be used to understand the properties of bedrock and loose deposits. This includes the development and application of methods for the exploration and investigation of natural resources such as mineral deposits and water, as well as for environmental and infrastructure-related issues.
Project description
For this doctoral position, the research will focus on evaluating the potential for natural hydrogen production in Norrbotten County in Sweden using an integrated method that combines field measurements and numerical modeling. Your tasks are to:
- process and jointly model available regional magnetotelluric (MT), gravimetric and magnetic data to develop an initial subsurface mapping model to identify areas of source rocks with potential for H₂;
- collect and process new MT data as well as electromagnetic field data from controlled sources (CSEM) in selected areas;
- perform integrated 3D modeling of MT, CSEM and gravity or magnetic data from selected areas to characterize potential systems for natural hydrogen production;
- carry out model verification and selection of sites with optimal potential for hydrogen production.
The project is carried out in close collaboration between Luleå University of Technology, the Geological Institute and several Swedish industry partners. The person hired will work in close collaboration with researchers specialized in rock mechanics, underground facilities, geophysics and geology, while also having regular contact with players in the industry.
Job duties
As a PhD student, you will:
- conduct independent research combining field surveys and numerical modeling of multimodal data (taking into account the complexity and anisotropy of the geological structure);
- develop methods to evaluate and rank natural hydrogen resources in Norrbotten;
- publish research results in leading international scientific journals;
- present research at national and international conferences;
- complete the courses required for the doctoral degree.
The majority of your working time will be devoted to doctoral research. Depending on the institution's 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 trips, interdisciplinary networking activities and continuing education events.
Qualifications
Applicants must have a master's degree (or equivalent) in one of the following fields:
- Geophysics
- Physics (with a focus on electromagnetism or computational physics)
- or a closely related subject area.
Driving license is a requirement as the project involves geophysical field work. Experience of geophysical field work is advantageous. Good background in numerical modeling of geophysical data is also an advantage.
The employee should demonstrate:
- strong analytical and problem-solving skills;
- enthusiasm for scientific research;
- ability to work both independently and in collaboration with interdisciplinary teams;
- excellent communication skills in written and spoken English.
Knowledge of Swedish is seen as an advantage because some field work, contacts with business and teaching activities may require communication in Swedish, but it is not a mandatory requirement. For further information on specific doctoral education see:
http://www.ltu.se/research/Utbildning-pa-forskarniva/Studieplaner/Allmanna-studieplaner-Teknisk-fakultetsnamnd
Information
Employment as a doctoral student is time-limited to 4 years, teaching and other department duties can add up to 20% of full-time. Location: Luleå. Expected entry date for the position is October–December 2026.
For each position, a preliminary salary range is specified, which is based on the position's requirements, responsibilities and market situation
https://www.ltu.se/om-universitetet/arbeta-hos-oss/att-soka-en-anstallning#h-Informationomlonetransparens.
For further information, please contact:
Professor Maxwell Meju, 0920-492261, maxwell.meju@ltu.se
Assistant professor, Maxim Smirnov, 073-0834998, maxim.smirnov@ltu.se
https://www.ltu.se/om-universitetet/arbeta-hos-oss/att-soka-en-anstallning#h-Fackligakontaktpersons
Application
We prefer that you apply for the position via the application button below where you attach a personal letter as well as a CV/résumé and copies of verified diplomas. Please mark your application with the reference number below. Both the application and degree certificate must be written in Swedish or English.
Application deadline: 30 September 2026
Reference number: 4684–2026
