Postdoc position in Process Metallurgy

Do you want to develop your research and teaching in an environment where collaboration with industry and society is a natural part of the work? With us, you will collaborate with dedicated colleagues, have access to modern research infrastructure, and enjoy strong opportunities to attract external funding. You will have the space to make a real difference for your students, your research, and society at large.

The Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering (SBN) at Luleå University of Technology conducts research and education within sustainable societal development, including infrastructure, environmental engineering, natural resources, and energy systems. More information can be found https://www.ltu.se/en/about-the-university/organisation/department-of-civil-environmental-and-natural-resources-engineering.

Within SBN, the Division of Minerals and Metallurgical Engineering focuses on the sustainable extraction, processing, and recycling of minerals and metals.

Take the opportunity to work in a dynamic, international research environment in close collaboration with industry and leading universities worldwide.

Subject description

Process Metallurgy is concerned with the sustainable extraction of metals from primary and secondary raw materials using both pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical processes. More information can be found https://www.ltu.se/en/research/research-subjects/process-metallurgy.

Project description

You will join a research team working at the forefront of the green transition, with a particular focus on transforming mining and metallurgical residues and by-products into high-value products. In this project you will combine advanced modeling with experimental work to understand and optimize the thermochemical conversion of gypsum into lime.

As part of a collaborative initiative with leading industrial partners, you will contribute to the development and optimization of innovative routes for gypsum valorization, with particular emphasis on its thermochemical conversion into high-quality lime.

Duties

As a postdoctoral researcher, you are expected to independently conduct both experimental and theoretical work related to gypsum valorization, including evaluation and reporting of results.

The work includes laboratory-scale experiments (e.g., thermochemical conversion of gypsum) as well as thermodynamic and kinetic modeling. Materials characterization using techniques such as XRD, SEM, and LOM will be an integral part of the research. The role also involves collaboration with industrial partners, participation in joint investigations, and contributions to scientific publications and research proposals.

The position is based at Luleå University of Technology in Luleå, with opportunities to engage in experimental work and trials in collaboration with industrial/international partners.

Qualifications

In order to be eligible for employment as post doctor you must have a PhD or a foreign degree equivalent to a PhD in Metallurgy, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. A doctoral degree awarded no more than three years before the application deadline provides a useful qualification. Candidates who have been awarded a doctoral degree at an earlier date may also be considered if there are special grounds, for example, different types of statutory leave of absence.

Strong knowledge of pyrometallurgy, particularly gypsum valorization and high-temperature processes, is required. Experience with experimental work related to gas–solid reactions or high-temperature processing is highly desirable. Hands-on experience with analytical and characterization techniques such as X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), and related methods are considered an asset. Familiarity with thermodynamic and kinetic modeling tools is also beneficial.

As the project involves close collaboration with academic and industrial partners, strong teamwork and communication skills are essential. Applicants must have good proficiency in written and spoken English.

Further information

Full-time fixed term employment for two years with placement in Luleå. Starting: December 2026.

For further information about the position, please contact

Associate Professor Hesham Ahmed, (+46)920-49 1309 mailto:hesham.ahmed@ltu.se

For each position, a preliminary https://www.ltu.se/en/about-the-university/work-with-us/applying-for-a-job#h-Informationonpaytransparency is provided based on the requirements, responsibilities, and market conditions associated with the role.

https://www.ltu.se/en/about-the-university/work-with-us/applying-for-a-job#h-Tradeunioncontacts

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: 2 October 2026

Reference number: 2792-2026