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 almost SEK 2.1 billion per year. We are currently 1,900 employees and have 18,700 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. Subject description Machine Elements covers the analysis and optimization of machine components and component systems in terms of performance, lifetime, energy efficiency, reliability and sustainability. Special emphasis is placed on issues in the field of tribology. Consortium Three PhD students and one postdoc will work in a larger project focusing on the development of large-scale underground hydrogen storage technology (SUV) in mines/mining areas. The project contributes to the green transition and carbon neutrality of the steel industry in Norrbotten by developing large-scale underground hydrogen storage technology (SUV) in mines/mining areas, including abandoned production levels. The project involves a comprehensive investigation and evaluation of technical, economic, legal, safety and regulatory aspects related to a future application of large-scale UHS in mining areas, promoting both a circular economy and renewable energy use for fossil-free steel production in future integrated value chains. As a PhD student in the project, you get a unique chance to contribute to sustainable development and the creation of a fossil-free society. If you are interested in polymer tribology and hydrogen ecosystems as well as renewable energy systems, then the offered PhD position is for you. PROJECT DESCRIPTION For the use of LINED ROCK CAVERN (LRC) in former mining area, the main problems are the material integrity, gas permeability and toughness of the liner design. New multi-scale polymer-based composites have shown promising results and are invaluable as alternative liner materials. To address this, research and development initiatives in this project are focused on the gas permeability, mechanical properties and tribological performance of the polymer-based materials in the presence of hydrogen. Surface functionalizing 2D-based materials will be used to reduce the H2 permeability and increase the self-lubricating properties of the new composite. Laboratory tests on hydrogen diffusion, microstructure development and mechanical properties will be performed and the properties will be coupled to predict the state of the material. Interdisciplinary and industrial collaboration, dissemination of results between partners will be established. This activity is conducted as a PhD project within the research subject Machine Elements at LTU in close collaboration with the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH). There is potential for both patents and new product development for polymeric materials such as liners in hydrogen applications. Work tasks As a PhD student, you are expected to perform both laboratory, numerical and practical work. Within the framework of your doctoral education, you are also expected to communicate your results at national and international conferences and in scientific journals. In addition, they also take both compulsory and optional postgraduate courses. However, most of your working time will be devoted to your own research. In your role as a doctoral student, you may also have the opportunity to try out the role of teacher. As a PhD student in the SUV project, you will also participate in the network of young scientists (NYS) within the framework of the Center for Hydrogen Energy Systems Sweden (CH2ESS), as well as the 2D-mateirals network and National Tribology Research school in Sweden. NYS organizes study visits, workshops and other interesting activities to increase your career opportunities in the future. Qualifications To be eligible for this position, the applicant must have a Master's degree or equivalent in polymer engineering, materials science, polymer chemistry and mechanical engineering with a strong materials focus. The successful candidate for this position will be a highly motivated individual with a strong research mindset, a strong intellect and disciplined work habits. As some work will be conducted on-site and in close collaboration with other researchers and industrial partners, the ability to work in large teams is an important asset. The successful candidate will have a good command of English, both spoken and written. Fluency in spoken and written Swedish is a great advantage so that you can collect data in Sweden and teach courses given in Swedish. For further information on specific doctoral programs see Curricula for doctoral studies in the Faculty of Engineering Information about the program Employment as a doctoral student is limited to 4 years, teaching and other departmental duties may be added up to 20% of full-time. The expected start date for the position is May-October 2025. For further information please contact: Professor Nazanin Emami, Principal Supervisor, 0920 491939, nazanin.emami@ltu.se Professor Pär Marklund, Head of Department, 0920 492419, par.marklund@ltu.se Trade union representatives: SACO-S Diana Chroneer, 0920-49 2037, diana.chroneer@ltu.se OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, 0920-49 1721, marika.vesterberg@ltu.se In the event of any discrepancies between the English and Swedish versions of this advertisement, the English version shall prevail. How to apply We prefer that you apply for the position via the application button below, attaching 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. Reference number: 883-2025 Application deadline: April 30, 2025