Dentist (M/F)

Luleå tekniska universitet is in strong growth with world-leading expertise in several research areas. Our scientific and artistic research and education are conducted in close cooperation with international, national, and regional companies, public actors, and leading universities. Luleå tekniska universitet has a turnover of over 2.3 billion SEK per year. We have more than 1,800 employees and nearly 21,600 students.

The Department of Built Environment and Natural Resources conducts research and education within the mining, construction, and environmental sectors. The department has a strong experimental and applied profile, with well-equipped laboratories and close collaboration with industry. Approximately 70% of the research is externally funded, and we have extensive international collaborations. The Department of Geotechnology conducts research and education in rock mechanics, mining engineering, and geotechnics, with a strong focus on the safe, efficient, and sustainable design of underground and open-pit facilities. The department works closely with industry to handle practical engineering challenges and develop solutions for future mining and infrastructure projects.

Subject Description

Mining and rock facility engineering includes mining engineering, rock engineering, and rock mechanics, including rock mass properties, tunneling technology, design and dimensioning of mines and rock facilities, as well as planning and production processes related to both mining and infrastructure development.

Project Description

As mining at LKAB occurs at increasing depths, the rock mass is subjected to increasing in-situ stresses and dynamic disturbances, which leads to an increased risk of seismic events and rockbursts. Therefore, there is a growing need for an improved understanding of rock reinforcement function under both static and dynamic loading.

The project aims to develop a mechanism-based and site-specific framework for the dimensioning of rock reinforcement, focusing on energy absorption, deformation capacity, and system behavior. The research will integrate laboratory tests, numerical modeling, and field observations from deep underground mines.

The expected results include an improved understanding of the performance of reinforcement systems, development of evaluation methods, and optimized solutions adapted to LKAB's conditions.

Tasks

As a doctoral student, you will work with both analysis of field data and numerical modeling within the project. The tasks include:

• Development and application of numerical models for rock reinforcement systems (e.g., bolts, mesh, shotcrete, and interaction with rock mass)
• Analysis and interpretation of laboratory results, including static and dynamic performance of reinforcement elements

• Participation in the design and evaluation of rock reinforcement in deep mining environments
• Collaboration with industrial partners and integration of field data into the research

• Dissemination of research results through scientific publications and conferences

The majority of the working time is dedicated to your own research studies. Teaching and other departmental duties may be included.

Qualifications

Requirements:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in mining engineering, rock mechanics, geotechnics, or a related field
• Knowledge of mechanics and/or numerical modeling (experience at various levels is welcome)

• Good ability to express yourself orally and in writing in English

Merit:

• Experience with numerical modeling tools (e.g., LS-DYNA, FEM, DEM)
• Knowledge of underground mining and rock reinforcement systems

• Experience in laboratory or field work

Personal qualities:

• Ability to collaborate in a research group and develop independence over time
• Analytical ability and problem-solving skills

• Motivation to contribute to research with industrial relevance and practical importance

For further information about specific doctoral education, see http://www.ltu.se/research/Utbildning-pa-forskarniva/Studieplaner/Allmanna-studieplaner-Teknisk-fakultetsnamnd

Information

Employment as a doctoral student is time-limited for 4 years; teaching and other departmental duties may add up to 20% of full-time employment. Place of work: Luleå. Intended start: according to agreement.

For further information, please contact Senior Lecturer Yang Zou, 0920-49 3470, mailto:yang.zou@ltu.se or Professor Daniel Johansson, 0920-49 2361, mailto:daniel.johansson@ltu.se

Union representatives:

SACO-S Diana Chroneer, 0920-49 2037, mailto:diana.chroneer@ltu.se

OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, 0920-49 1721, mailto:marika.vesterberg@ltu.se

Application

We would prefer that you apply for the position via the application button below, where you attach a cover letter as well as CV/resume and copies of verified degree certificates. Please mark your application with the reference number below. Both the application and degree certificates must be written in Swedish or English.

Last application date: 31 July 2026

Reference number: 3108-2026