PhD Student position in Engineering Physics

We conduct research and education in physics, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, mathematics, industrial design engineering and didactics in mathematics and science education. We offer unique and world-leading research within the FSCN Research Centre and Sports Tech Research Centre.

At the Fibre Science and Communication Network Research Centre, FSCN, research focuses on advanced materials and processing technology, where multidisciplinary work aims to develop resource-efficient processes and improve the functionality of bio-based materials and energy materials.  

Job Description 
Independent third-cycle studies encompassing research (80-100%), teaching and administrative tasks (0-20%).

Applications are invited from highly motivated candidates to join a research project focused on the development of aluminum-based batteries. The project is conducted in an international research environment with strong collaborative partnerships. The successful candidate will be based within the Engineering Physics research group at the Department of Engineering, Mathematics and Science Education.

The project aims to develop aluminum-based batteries through the development of the electrolyte, the positive electrode, and the negative electrode. Advancing aluminum-based battery technology requires a fundamental scientific understanding of each of these key components. A central objective of the project is to investigate the charge-storage mechanisms in aluminum batteries under various operating conditions.

As a PhD candidate, you will conduct independent research under the guidance of your supervisors. Your primary responsibilities will include the synthesis and characterization of battery materials, electrochemical evaluation and data analysis, theoretical analysis, and collaboration with project partners. Your work will include participation in research projects, completion of third-cycle (doctoral) courses, and collaboration with national and international project partners. You will present your research findings at international conferences and research seminars and publish your results in peer-reviewed scientific journals. A detailed research plan will be developed together with your supervisors, considering your research interests and academic background.

The position may also include teaching and other departmental duties, corresponding to a maximum of 20% of the total working time.

Entry requirements 

General entry requirements include a second-cycle level qualification, or fulfilment of courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits must be at second-cycle level, or the equivalent knowledge gained in some other way in Sweden or abroad. Specific entry requirements include at least 90 credits in the subject ofengineering physics or the equivalent knowledge gained in some other way in Sweden or abroad. 

Assessment criteria 
Assessment and selection of applicants will be based on scientific competence and personal qualities.

When assessing scientific competence, particular consideration will be given to demonstrated aptitude for research, the quality of previous academic work, including Bachelor's and Master's theses and other scientific publications, and the ability to conduct research independently and in collaboration with others within the field of materials physics.

Experience in research on the fabrication and characterisation of batteries and battery materials, particularly aluminium batteries, is considered an advantage.

Personal qualities
We are looking for a candidate with a strong interest in experimental research and analytical work. You are able to work independently, take responsibility for a long-term research project, and at the same time contribute to good collaboration within research groups and interdisciplinary environments. You have strong collaboration and communication skills and are motivated to contribute to an active and supportive research environment.

Great importance will be placed on personal suitability.

Employment process
Processing of the appointment will comply with the provisions in Chapter 5 of the Higher Education Ordinance, and will be carried out in accordance with Mid Sweden University’s Employment Procedures.

Terms of employment 
The doctoral studentship position corresponds to four years of full-time studies and is expected to lead to a Degree of Doctor. The entry date is 2026-10-01 or as agreed.

Initial doctoral student positions are valid for a maximum of one year, after which the position may be renewed by no longer than two years at a time.Provisions regarding doctoral studentship employment can be found in the Higher Education Ordinance  (1993:100), Chapter 5, Sections 1-7.

Place of employment: Sundsvall

Salary: In accordance with Mid Sweden University’s salary scale for doctoral students. 

Information 
For more detailed information contact the Head of department associate professor Claes Mattsson, claes.mattsson@miun.se, +46 (0)10-1428498, associate professor jonas Örtegren, Jonas.ortegren@miun.se or Dr. Ghadir Razaz, ghadir.razaz@miun.se

Application 
The application shall be written in swedish or English.

The application should include a CV (max 3 pages), copies of official transcripts and degree certificates, electronic copy of degree thesis, a cover letter (max 1 page) describing visions and goals for the doctoral studies in reference to interests and documented skills. Also append other documents that the applicant would like to refer to.

Please welcome to apply through our recruitment tool no later than 2026-09-21.

Mid Sweden University, with campuses in both Sundsvall and Östersund, is a university where students, colleagues, and the surrounding community are always close at hand. At the same time, we are located near the sea, forests, and mountains, creating excellent conditions for a high quality of life. Here, new knowledge is generated through internationally successful research and education that contribute to societal development. In this way, we help create a sustainable future and a better world. As an employee at Mid Sweden University, you should be able to combine work and leisure and maintain a healthy work-life balance. We offer, among other things, flexible working hours, support for wellness activities, salary supplementation during parental leave and illness, and a generous number of vacation days. Mid Sweden University actively promotes equal opportunities and strives to make the most of the qualities that diversity and gender equality bring to the organization. Salaries are determined in accordance with the central collective salary agreements RALS/RALS-T. Your personal data will be processed and stored in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). We welcome questions from those interested in working with us, but kindly decline offers relating to advertising and recruitment services.

• Contract type

  Full time

• First day of employment

  2026-10-01 eller enligt överenskommelse

• Salary

  Enligt Mittuniversitetets lönetrappa för doktorander

• Number of positions

  1

• Working hours

  100%

• City

  Sundsvall

• County

  Västernorrlands län

• Country

  Sweden

• Reference number

  MIUN 2026/1801

• Union representative
  • Per Bergman, Fackförbundet ST, 010-1428371
  • Börje Norlin, Saco, 010-1428594
• Published

  2026-08-20

• Last application date

  2026-09-21