Postdoctoral position in ore geology
Luleå Tekniska Universitet / Högskolejobb / Luleå
2025-12-10
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hela Sverige Luleå University of Technology is in strong growth with world-leading competence in several research areas. We shape the future through innovative education and ground-breaking research results, and based on the Arctic region, we create global social benefit. 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 nearly SEK 2,1 billion per year. We currently have 1,900 employees and 18,700 students.
In the coming years, multi-billion investments will be made in large projects in Northern Sweden to create a fossil-free society both nationally and globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these cutting-edge research projects and in the societal transformation that they entail. We offer a broad range of courses and study programmes to match the skills in demand. We hope that you will help us to build the sustainable companies and societies of the future.We are one of the leading universities in Europe in mining technology and metallurgy. The university conducts research along the entire mining value chain - from exploration, mining, mineral engineering and metallurgy to waste management and post-mining restoration. The research is carried out by leading researchers from traditional mining engineering subjects such as ore geology, geophysics, rock mechanics, rock engineering, geotechnics, mineral engineering, process metallurgy and applied geochemistry, as well as researchers from subjects such as chemistry, industrial production environment, operation and maintenance technology, fluid mechanics and economics.
To strengthen our research in ore geology and mineral systems analysis, we are recruiting a postdoctoral researcher for a new 3-year research project focused on the role of evaporites in the evolution of Iron Oxide-Apatite (IOA) systems. The position is funded by the LKAB Foundation for Sustainable Transformation and forms part of an active research environment with strong links to industry, national geological surveys and Nordic universities.
Subject description
Ore geology includes the use, setting and mode of formation of naturally occurring economic concentrations of metallic raw materials. The research aims at describing the geological conditions that lead to economic concentrations of minerals, as well as how these minerals can be used for a sustainable societal development.
Project background
Iron Oxide-Apatite deposits are central to Sweden's mining industry, yet key questions remain regarding the chemical and tectonic controls on their alteration and mineralisation. A characteristic feature of IOA systems is extensive scapolite-rich alteration, whose formation may involve contributions from ancient evaporites. These evaporites-bearing chloride, sulfate and carbonate components-may provide Na, Cl, Br, and S, and may drive oxidation of hydrothermal fluids, influencing iron mobility and ore formation.
This postdoctoral project will systematically investigate:
• the distribution and stratigraphic relationships of evaporite-related units in northern Sweden,
• the mineralogical, chemical and isotopic signatures (S, O, C, Cl, Sr) of scapolite and associated alteration minerals,
• geochemical fingerprints distinguishing evaporite-modified from magmatic-hydrothermal fluids, and
• mineralogical and isotopic vectors applicable to exploration of IOA systems at deposit to regional scales.
Comparative fieldwork in Norway and Finland will provide a broader geological context.
Duties
The postdoctoral researcher will primarily carry out independent research within the EVAP-IOA project, including:
• Field-based mapping and sampling of alteration zones and evaporite-bearing lithologies
• Petrographic, mineral chemical (SEM, EPMA, LA-ICP-MS) and isotopic analyses (S, O, C, Cl, Sr)
• Integration of mineralogical, geochemical and stratigraphic data into a coherent genetic and exploration model
• Development of new mineralogical and geochemical indicators for exploration
• Preparation of scientific publications (2-3 papers) and presentations at international conferences
• Participation in group activities, supervision of MSc students, and development of future research initiatives
The position may include limited teaching or departmental duties.
Qualifications
In order to be eligible for employment as postdoctoral researcher you must have a PhD or a foreign degree equivalent to a PhD in geoscience, awarded no more than three years before the application deadline. Candidates who have been awarded a doctoral degree at an earlier date may also be considered if there are special grounds, for example, different types of statutory leave of absence.
The following assessment criteria are applied for the position:
Scientific skill
• Documented research experience in ore geology, metamorphic geology, geochemistry, mineralogy or related fields
• Experience with one or more analytical techniques relevant to the project (petrography, EPMA, LA-ICP-MS, isotopes, etc.)
• Strong publication record relative to career stage
Other merits
• Experience of teaching
• Experience with fieldwork, structural or stratigraphic analysis
• Teaching experience or supervision
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary environments
• Good communication skills in English (spoken and written)
Further information
Full-time fixed term employment for two years with placement in Luleå. Starting: spring 2026
For further information about the position, please contact professor Tobias Bauer, (+46)920 49 21 50,
tobias.bauer@ltu.seUnion representatives:
SACO-S Diana Chroneer,(+46 )920-49 2037
diana.chroneer@ltu.seOFR-S Marika Vesterberg,(+46)920-49 1721
marika.vesterberg@ltu.seIn case of different interpretations of the English and Swedish versions of this announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.
Application
We 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. Mark your application with the reference number below. Your application, including diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish.
Closing date for applications: January 12, 2026
Reference number: 6733-2025
Ersättning individual pay setting
Så ansöker du Sista dag att ansöka är 2026-01-12
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Arbetsgivare Luleå Tekniska Universitet (org.nr 202100-2841)
Arbetsplats Luleå tekniska universitet
Jobbnummer 9636796