Summary: Luleå University of Technology is seeking motivated candidates for a PhD position focused on the design, development, and characterization of advanced sorbent materials for environmental and gas-cleaning applications. This project will involve synthesizing and optimizing materials for selective NOx and SOx capture under humid industrial conditions, with a focus on improved adsorption selectivity, moisture stability, and low-temperature regeneration.
PhD Position in Engineering Materials, Luleå University, Sweden
Designation: Doctoral Student (PhD)
Research Area: Engineering Materials, Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering
Table of Project Details:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Focus | Synthesis, optimization, and characterization of advanced sorbent materials for selective NOx and SOx capture under humid industrial conditions. |
| Material Types | Functionalized activated carbons, ion-exchanged zeolites, and MOF-based hybrid composites. |
| Key Objectives | Improved adsorption selectivity, enhanced moisture stability, low-temperature regeneration capability, investigation of adsorption mechanisms, binding thermodynamics, NO and NO2 discrimination, SO2 cross-interference, and sorbent durability under realistic gas mixtures. Optimization for additive manufacturing compatibility and pilot-scale implementation. |
| Funding Source | Approved for funding in EIC Pathfinder challenges from waste to value creation. |
| Division Expertise | The Division of Materials Science at Luleå University of Technology has world-leading expertise in metallic and ceramic materials, including high-temperature intermetallic, space materials, high-strength steels, porous ceramic materials, and materials for energy recovery. The research subject “Engineering Materials” encompasses material composition, structure, properties, production, and application aspects of metallic and ceramic materials. |
| Departmental Support | The Division is part of the Department of Engineering Science and Mathematics, with related activities in materials mechanics and machine elements. The department also supports international master’s programs (EEIGM and AMASE) where students engage in research projects. |
Location: Luleå University of Technology, Department of Engineering Science and Mathematics, Division for Materials Science, Luleå, Sweden.
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Master of Science degree in materials science, chemistry, or chemical engineering.
- Good knowledge and experience in sorption and catalysts and their characterization.
- Proficiency in written and oral English.
- Experience in processing science, porous materials, and synthetic chemistry is advantageous.
Job Description:
- Conduct research on the synthesis, optimization, and characterization of advanced sorbent materials.
- Investigate adsorption mechanisms, binding thermodynamics, and gas discrimination using advanced characterization and adsorption testing techniques.
- Evaluate sorbent durability under realistic industrial gas conditions.
- Optimize material formulations for additive manufacturing and pilot-scale implementation.
- Act and train as a project manager, defining daily tasks and their execution.
- Involvement in other projects and teaching (up to 20% of time).
- Employment is time-limited to 4 years, with the possibility of teaching and other department duties adding up to 20% of full-time.
How to Apply:
- Apply by clicking the “apply button” via the provided URL.
- The application should include a CV, a personal letter, and verified copies of diplomas from high school and universities.
- Your application, including diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish.
- Mark your application with the reference number: 3877-2026.
Last Date for Apply: August 9, 2026
Reference Number: 3877-2026
