PhD in Water And Environment

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./nThe Urban Water Engineering research group at the Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural resources engineering at Luleå University of Technology seeks a driven and committed PhD student with a focus on how sustainable management of stormwater sediments can contribute to improved water quality. Take the opportunity to join one of the leading stormwater research groups in the world with an international, creative and dynamic environment and close cooperation with the industry and universities worldwide./nThe Urban Water Engineering research group has a strong position in research and education on urban water systems, primarily stormwater, small-scale wastewater and sewage systems./nSubject description:nUrban Water Engineering encompasses the entire urban water system (storm drains, drinking water supply and wastewater) with respect to collection, transport and treatment, as well as organisation and planning. The research aims to encourage a strong economy, clean environment and the wise use of resources, while preserving the public’s health and safety./nProject description:nStormwater carries a variety of pollutants from urban environments, posing major challenges for the protection of surface water and groundwater. The management of sediments transported by stormwater is a complex issue involving practical, legal and environmental challenges, which means that the water and wastewater industry has a keen interest in and involvement in the project. Sediment acts as a carrier and source of pollutants, making safe and environmentally friendly management crucial./nThe work within the project includes the evaluation and development of technical solutions for sediment management, as well as detailed characterisation of sediment from different types of stormwater facilities and roads in order to understand its properties and potential for circular use. The long-term goal is to create conditions for circular sediment management, reduce the spread of pollutants to surface and groundwater, and optimise the maintenance of stormwater systems./nWithin this project, the doctoral student will be involved in collaboration with a network of national actors in the water and wastewater industry and will communicate results both with the industry and international researchers through LTU's well-established competence network./nDuties:nAs a PhD student, you will perform both experimental and theoretical work. You will learn how to collect and analyse scientific data within your research area as well as communicate your results at national and international conferences and in scientific journals. Most of your working time will be devoted to your own research studies, including both research and coursework. In addition, you will also carry out departmental duties, such as teaching and/or assisting in other research projects. You will have two or three supervisors who support you in your work. The research work for this project will specifically include experimental work (planning, organising and carrying out, for example, sediment sampling, laboratory studies and pilot trials)./nPlacement: Luleå. Starting: Spring 2026.