PhD Student in Applied Geophysics

Luleå Tekniska Universitet · Full-time

Luleå, Sweden

Are you ready to take the next step in your academic journey? As a PhD student with us, you'll work closely with leading researchers in a strong and international research environment, with access to advanced laboratory equipment and excellent funding opportunities. You'll be offered a secure position, high-quality supervision, and space to grow, both as a researcher and as a person. Luleå University of Technology is launching an interdisciplinary research project together with the Geological Institute and several Swedish industrial partners on the development of natural hydrogen resources and underground hydrogen storage. We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student in applied geophysics who wants to contribute to this exciting project, which offers a unique opportunity to work with leading researchers and industrial partners to address one of the most important challenges in the energy transition. As a PhD student, you'll receive excellent supervision, access to advanced research resources, and opportunities to develop into an internationally recognized researcher. Subject Description Applied geophysics encompasses the study of how the laws and methods of physics can be used to understand the properties of bedrock and unconsolidated deposits. This includes the development and application of methods for 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 PhD position, the research will focus on evaluating the potential for natural hydrogen production in Norrbotten County in Sweden using an integrated approach that combines field measurements and numerical modeling. Your tasks will be to: - process and jointly model available regional magnetotelluric (MT), gravimetric, and magnetic data to develop an initial subsurface model for mapping in order to identify areas with source rocks that have potential for H₂; - collect and process new MT data and electromagnetic field data from controlled sources (CSEM) in selected areas; - perform integrated 3D modeling of MT, CSEM, and gravitational or magnetic data from selected areas to characterize potential systems for natural hydrogen production; - conduct model verification and site selection 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 industrial partners. The person hired will work in close collaboration with researchers specializing in rock mechanics, underground facilities, geophysics, and geology, while regularly maintaining contact with industry stakeholders. 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 prioritize 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 a PhD degree. Most of your working time will be devoted to PhD research. Depending on the department'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 excursions, interdisciplinary networking activities, and professional development events. Qualifications Applicants must hold 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. A driver's license is a requirement because the project involves geophysical fieldwork. Experience with geophysical fieldwork is an advantage. A strong background in numerical modeling of geophysical data is also beneficial. The person hired 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 considered an advantage as some fieldwork, contacts with industry, and teaching activities may require communication in Swedish, but it is not a mandatory requirement. For additional information about PhD education in general, see: http://www.ltu.se/research/Utbildning-pa-forskarniva/Studieplaner/Allmanna-studieplaner-Teknisk-fakultetsnamnd Information Employment as a PhD student is fixed-term for 4 years; teaching and other institutional duties may be added up to 20% of full-time. Location: Luleå. Expected start date for the position is October–December 2026. For each position, a preliminary salary range is stated based on the position's requirements, responsibilities, and market conditions: 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, [email protected] Assistant Professor Maxim Smirnov, 073-0834998, [email protected] https://www.ltu.se/om-universitetet/arbeta-hos-oss/att-soka-en-anstallning#h-Fackligakontaktpersoner Application We prefer that you apply for the position using the application button below, where you attach a cover letter, CV/list of qualifications, and copies of verified diplomas. Please mark your application with the reference number below. Both the application and diplomas must be written in Swedish or English. Application Deadline: September 30, 2026 Reference Number: 4684–2026