Luleå University of Technology is growing rapidly with world-leading expertise in several research areas. We shape the future through innovative education and groundbreaking research results, and based on the Arctic region, we create global social benefits. Our scientific and artistic research and education are conducted in close collaboration with international, national and regional companies, public actors and leading universities. Luleå University of Technology has a total turnover of SEK 2 billion per year. We are currently 1,500 employees and have 17,900 students. In the coming years, billions of kronor will be invested in Norrbotten and Västerbotten in major projects aimed at a more sustainable society nationally as well as globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these highly topical research projects and the social transformation that follows. We have a wide range of programs to match the skills that are in demand. We hope you will help us build the sustainable businesses and societies of the future. Today, humans are a significant geological factor affecting the Earth at local, regional and global scales. Concerns about human impacts on the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere and potentially toxic effects on the biosphere have highlighted the need for environmental geochemistry. Research and education in environmental geochemistry is important in the green transition. Applied geochemistry relates to environmental issues linked to the mining industry, infrastructure and community building, hydropower development, forestry, acid sulfate soils and sulfide-bearing rocks. In environmental forensics, we use isotopes, multi-element analysis and mineral identification to trace contaminant sources, mobility and geochemical processes in both natural and impacted systems. For our group, applied geochemistry, we are now looking for a PhD student to understand element mobility in contaminated systems and develop bioremediation techniques. As a PhD student, you will have the opportunity to utilize our excellent laboratory structure and state-of-the-art analytical methods. Here you can read more about applied geochemistry research programs/applied-geochemistry Subject description Applied geochemistry involves the study of the occurrence and mobility of elements in the environment, with a particular focus on methods to prevent and mitigate environmental effects of mining. Project description Anthropogenic activities often lead to the release of heavy metals and other critical elements into the surrounding environment, where their mobility poses significant risks to water quality, ecosystems and human health. Understanding and mitigating these impacts is crucial for a sustainable society. This project focuses on the mobility and transport of trace elements and rare earth elements in impacted environments, emphasizing their interactions with hydrological and mineralogical systems. The mobility of critical raw materials is not yet well known. Therefore, combining mineralogical and geochemical analysis in a geo-forensic approach will improve our understanding. By integrating geochemistry and bioremediation techniques, the project aims to develop innovative, passive water treatment solutions by reusing waste materials. Microalgae are highly efficient in absorbing heavy metals and can be stimulated with recycled bio-ash, improving their growth and metal uptake efficiency. The system will complement traditional water treatment methods and offer a sustainable approach to reduce pollution, recover valuable metals and improve water quality in affected areas. This research provides critical insights into element mobility and presents a scalable, eco-friendly solution to mitigate environmental impacts. Duties and responsibilities A PhD position involves both theoretical and practical scientific work in accordance with an individual study plan. As a doctoral student, you are part of a research group where scientific work is carried out in collaboration. This includes collecting and analyzing data under supervision and writing scientific articles. You will also conduct research training courses, be involved in the graduate school and the department's seminar activities. Furthermore, you will present your research nationally and internationally. The PhD position may also include departmental duties. Qualifications You are eligible to apply for this position if you have a master's degree or a foreign degree equivalent to a master's degree in natural resource engineering, geoscience, geochemistry or similar focus area. Experience of biogeochemistry and mining technology is an advantage for the position. As a PhD student, you should have good collaboration skills and oral and written communication skills in English. For further information on specific doctoral education see; study plans for doctoral education in the Faculty of Engineering Information about the position Employment as a doctoral student is limited to 4 years, teaching and other departmental duties may be added up to 20% of full time. Place of employment: Luleå. Intended start: immediately, or by agreement. For further information, please contact Sarah Conrad, Senior Lecturer, 0920-49 3478, sarah.conrad@ltu.se Trade union representative: SACO-S Diana Chroneer, 0920-49 2037 diana.chroneer@ltu.se OFR-S Lars Frisk, 0920-49 1792 lars.frisk@ltu.se How to apply We prefer that you apply for the position via the application button below where you attach a cover letter, CV/resume and copies of verified diplomas. Please mark your application with the reference number below. Both the application and the diplomas must be written in Swedish or English. Deadline for applications: January 29, 2025 Reference number: 5324-2024