{"data":{"id":164236,"slug":"phd-student-in-mining-and-rock-engineering-3","type":"job","title":"PhD Student in Mining and Rock Engineering","description":"PhD Student in Mining and Rock Engineering with special focus on underground hydrogen storage\n \nAre you ready to take the next step in your academic journey? As a doctoral student with us, you will work closely with leading researchers in a strong, international research environment, with access to advanced laboratory equipment and solid funding opportunities. You will be offered secure employment, high-quality supervision, and room to grow, both as a researcher and as a person.\n \nLule\u00e5 University of Technology, together with the Geological Survey of Sweden (SGU) and several Swedish industrial partners, is launching a multidisciplinary research project on natural hydrogen resources and underground hydrogen storage.\n \nWe are seeking a motivated PhD candidate in Mining and Rock Engineering to contribute to interdisciplinary research spanning rock engineering, geophysics, geology and energy systems. The project offers a unique opportunity to work with leading researchers and industry partners while addressing one of the key technological challenges of the energy transition.\n \nAs a doctoral student at Lule\u00e5 University of Technology, you will receive excellent supervision, access to advanced research facilities, and opportunities to develop into an internationally recognized researcher.\n \nSubject description\nMining and Rock Engineering comprises mining technology, rock engineering and rock mechanics, including rock mass properties, design of rock excavations and tunneling as well as planning and production processes related to both mining and civil engineering.\n \nProject description\nFor this PhD position, the research will focus on the development of engineered underground hydrogen storage in lined rock caverns (LRCs) excavated in hard crystalline rock. Your tasks are to:\n- develop coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical numerical models to simulate hydrogen injection, storage and withdrawal;\n- evaluate the effects of operational loading on the integrity of steel liners, concrete and surrounding rock;\n- develop reference designs for lined rock caverns of different storage capacities together with scaling methodologies;\n- assess site-specific performance under different geological conditions and providing design recommendations for future demonstration projects.\n \nThe project is carried out in close collaboration between Lule\u00e5 University of Technology, the Geological Survey of Sweden (SGU), and several Swedish industrial partners. The successful candidate will work closely with researchers specializing in rock mechanics, underground construction, geophysics and geology, while interacting regularly with industrial stakeholders.\n \nDuties\nAs a PhD student, you will:\n- conduct independent research through numerical modelling, laboratory testing and field investigations;\n- participate in site investigations and data collection in northern Sweden;\n- develop methodologies for evaluating suitable storage sites and optimized lined rock cavern designs;\n- publish research findings in leading international scientific journals;\n- present research at national and international conferences;\n- complete doctoral coursework required for the degree.\n \nThe majority of your working time will be devoted to doctoral research. Depending on departmental needs, you may also have the opportunity to gain experience in teaching and supervision.\n \nYou 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.\n \nQualifications\nApplicants must hold an MSc degree (or equivalent) in one of the following areas:\n- Rock Mechanics\n- Civil Engineering (with specialization in geotechnical engineering or underground construction)\n- Mining Engineering\n- Solid Mechanics\n- or a closely related discipline\n \nA strong background in numerical modelling of rock and underground structures is essential. Experience with finite element, finite difference or discrete element modelling (e.g., FLAC3D, 3DEC, Abaqus, COMSOL or similar software) is considered an advantage.\n \nThe successful candidate should demonstrate:\n- strong analytical and problem-solving skills;\n- enthusiasm for scientific research;\n- ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams;\n- excellent communication skills in written and spoken English.\n \nKnowledge of Swedish is considered an advantage because some fieldwork, industrial interaction and teaching activities may require communication in Swedish, but it is not a mandatory requirement.\n \nFor further information about a specific subject see http:\/\/www.ltu.se\/research\/Utbildning-pa-forskarniva\/Studieplaner\/Allmanna-studieplaner-Teknisk-fakultetsnamnd?l=en\n \nFurther information\nEmployment as a PhD student is limited to 4 years, teaching and other department duties may be added with max 20%. Placement: Lule\u00e5. The expected start date for the position is October-December 2026.\n \nFor each position, a preliminary salary range 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.\n \nFor further information about the position, please contact:\nProfessor Ping Zhang, +46 920-49 3016, ping.zhang@ltu.se\nProfessor Daniel Johansson, +46 920-49 2361, daniel.johansson@ltu.se\n \nUnion representatives https:\/\/www.ltu.se\/en\/about-the-university\/work-with-us\/applying-for-a-job#h-Tradeunioncontacts\n \nIn case of different interpretations of the English and Swedish versions of this announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.\n \nApplication\nWe 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. If available, please include documentation of English language proficiency (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge English, or equivalent). Mark your application with the reference number below. Your application, including diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish.\n \nClosing date for applications: September 20, 2026\nReference number: 4286-2026","language":"sv","is_translated":true,"title_original":"PhD Student in Mining and Rock Engineering ","description_original":"PhD Student in Mining and Rock Engineering with special focus on underground hydrogen storage\n\u00a0\nAre you ready to take the next step in your academic journey? As a doctoral student with us, you will work closely with leading researchers in a strong, international research environment, with access to advanced laboratory equipment and solid funding opportunities. You will be offered secure employment, high-quality supervision, and room to grow, both as a researcher and as a person.\n\u00a0\nLule\u00e5 University of Technology, together with the Geological Survey of Sweden (SGU) and several Swedish industrial partners, is launching a multidisciplinary research project on natural hydrogen resources and underground hydrogen storage.\n\u00a0\nWe are seeking a motivated PhD candidate in Mining and Rock Engineering to contribute to interdisciplinary research spanning rock engineering, geophysics, geology and energy systems. The project offers a unique opportunity to work with leading researchers and industry partners while addressing one of the key technological challenges of the energy transition.\n\u00a0\nAs a doctoral student at Lule\u00e5 University of Technology, you will receive excellent supervision, access to advanced research facilities, and opportunities to develop into an internationally recognized researcher.\n\u00a0\nSubject description\nMining and Rock Engineering comprises mining technology, rock engineering and rock mechanics, including rock mass properties, design of rock excavations and tunneling as well as planning and production processes related to both mining and civil engineering.\n\u00a0\nProject description\nFor this PhD position, the research will focus on the development of engineered underground hydrogen storage in lined rock caverns (LRCs) excavated in hard crystalline rock. Your tasks are to:\n- develop coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical numerical models to simulate hydrogen injection, storage and withdrawal;\n- evaluate the effects of operational loading on the integrity of steel liners, concrete and surrounding rock;\n- develop reference designs for lined rock caverns of different storage capacities together with scaling methodologies;\n- assess site-specific performance under different geological conditions and providing design recommendations for future demonstration projects.\n\u00a0\nThe project is carried out in close collaboration between Lule\u00e5 University of Technology, the Geological Survey of Sweden (SGU), and several Swedish industrial partners. The successful candidate will work closely with researchers specializing in rock mechanics, underground construction, geophysics and geology, while interacting regularly with industrial stakeholders.\n\u00a0\nDuties\nAs a PhD student, you will:\n- conduct independent research through numerical modelling, laboratory testing and field investigations;\n- participate in site investigations and data collection in northern Sweden;\n- develop methodologies for evaluating suitable storage sites and optimized lined rock cavern designs;\n- publish research findings in leading international scientific journals;\n- present research at national and international conferences;\n- complete doctoral coursework required for the degree.\n\u00a0\nThe majority of your working time will be devoted to doctoral research. Depending on departmental needs, you may also have the opportunity to gain experience in teaching and supervision.\n\u00a0\nYou 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.\n\u00a0\nQualifications\nApplicants must hold an MSc degree (or equivalent) in one of the following areas:\n- Rock Mechanics\n- Civil Engineering (with specialization in geotechnical engineering or underground construction)\n- Mining Engineering\n- Solid Mechanics\n- or a closely related discipline\n\u00a0\nA strong background in numerical modelling of rock and underground structures is essential. Experience with finite element, finite difference or discrete element modelling (e.g., FLAC3D, 3DEC, Abaqus, COMSOL or similar software) is considered an advantage.\n\u00a0\nThe successful candidate should demonstrate:\n- strong analytical and problem-solving skills;\n- enthusiasm for scientific research;\n- ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams;\n- excellent communication skills in written and spoken English.\n\u00a0\nKnowledge of Swedish is considered an advantage because some fieldwork, industrial interaction and teaching activities may require communication in Swedish, but it is not a mandatory requirement.\n\u00a0\nFor further information about a specific subject see\u00a0http:\/\/www.ltu.se\/research\/Utbildning-pa-forskarniva\/Studieplaner\/Allmanna-studieplaner-Teknisk-fakultetsnamnd?l=en\n\u00a0\nFurther information\nEmployment as a PhD student is limited to 4 years, teaching and other department duties may be added with max 20%. Placement: Lule\u00e5. The expected start date for the position is October-December 2026.\n\u00a0\nFor each position, a preliminary salary range 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.\n\u00a0\nFor further information about the position, please contact:\nProfessor Ping Zhang, +46 920-49 3016, ping.zhang@ltu.se\nProfessor Daniel Johansson, +46 920-49 2361, daniel.johansson@ltu.se\n\u00a0\nUnion representatives https:\/\/www.ltu.se\/en\/about-the-university\/work-with-us\/applying-for-a-job#h-Tradeunioncontacts\n\u00a0\nIn case of different interpretations of the English and Swedish versions of this announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.\n\u00a0\nApplication\nWe 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. If available, please include documentation of English language proficiency (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge English, or equivalent). Mark your application with the reference number below. Your application, including diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish.\n\u00a0\nClosing date for applications:\u00a0September 20, 2026\nReference number: 4286-2026","price":null,"currency":"SEK","status":"active","noindex":true,"location":{"address":null,"full_address":null,"city":"Lule\u00e5","country":"SE","latitude":65.6152976,"longitude":22.0451587},"metadata":{"region":"Norrbottens l\u00e4n","duration":"6 m\u00e5nader eller l\u00e4ngre","employer":"LULE\u00c5 TEKNISKA UNIVERSITET","postcode":"97187","positions":1,"profession":"Doktorand","salary_type":"Fast m\u00e5nads- vecko- eller timl\u00f6n","employer_url":"https:\/\/www.ltu.se\/","scope_of_work":"100\u2013100 %","working_hours":"Heltid","employment_type":"Vanlig anst\u00e4llning","occupation_field":"Pedagogik","employer_workplace":"Lule\u00e5 tekniska universitet - Platsbanken","translation_status":"done","experience_required":true},"user_id":null,"is_sponsored":false,"views_count":0,"ai_views_count":2,"ai_vendor_counts":{"anthropic":2},"visibility":"public","submission_source":null,"submission_ai_name":null,"has_owner_email":true,"can_contact_owner":true,"phone":"+46 920-49 3016","owner_email":"ping.zhang@ltu.se","images":[],"published_at":"2026-08-20T10:18:37+00:00","expires_at":"2026-09-20T23:59:59+00:00","created_at":"2026-08-21T03:18:31+00:00","updated_at":"2026-08-21T04:01:30+00:00"}}