Postdoctoral position in Process Metallurgy

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 SEK 1.9 billion per year. We currently have 1,840 employees and 17,670 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.The research subject, Process Metallurgy, deals with the sustainable extraction of metals from primary and secondary raw materials using both pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical processes. The research is specially, but not exclusively, focused on the early steps in the processing of an ore to metal. Present activities in the research subject are mostly focused on the green transition and how it is correlated to the mineral and metal value chain, an aspect of large importance to Sweden and in particular to the northern parts of Sweden, involving many research topics at LTU and industrial partners.  We're seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher in Process Metallurgy to engage in research focused on the circular use of electric arc furnace slag. This demand-driven fundamental research is carried out in collaboration with industry and other research partners. The work is experimental and aims to map and understand how parameters in the pyrometallurgical process affect the possibility of using the slag as a replacement material in cement. As a Postdoctoral Researcher, you will be part of a dynamic and international research environment with close cooperation with partners from research institutes and industry in the region, which is internationally leading in fossil-free steel production. Subject description Process Metallurgy deals with the sustainable extraction of metals from primary and secondary raw materials using both pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical processes. Project description The pyrometallurgical electric arc furnace process generates 80-200 kg of slag per ton of steel produced. Consequently, around 68-78 million tons of electric arc furnace slag are generated globally each year. The project aims to study how parameters in the pyrometallurgical process affect the possibility of using the slag as a replacement material in cement. If this recycling path is enabled, millions of tons of carbon dioxide emissions could be avoided annually. In the project, your primary response parameter will be how the slag behaves as a replacement material in cement. The variables include the slag's chemical composition, crystalline phases, and parameters related to the slag solidification process. You will synthesize samples in pyrometallurgical experiments, evaluate different granulation techniques, investigate whether crystalline phases can be activated, and utilize advanced characterization equipment to piece together observations into a deep understanding of the observed phenomena. Duties As a Postdoctoral Researcher, you are expected to independently carry out both experimental and theoretical work within the specified research questions, evaluate, and report the achieved results. You act as a neutral party in many contexts, which provides a great opportunity to be involved in challenging development projects. The research may include experimental work in the form of experimental studies at high temperatures in a lab scale, thermodynamic calculations, and characterization of materials using various analytical instruments including XRD (X-ray diffraction), SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy), HT-CLSM (High-Temperature Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy) The work is primarily conducted at Luleå University of Technology in Luleå, but experiments/investigations with industrial partners may occur. Qualifications We are looking for someone who is engaged, goal-oriented, and motivated to perform advanced research in process metallurgy, both independently and in collaboration with senior researchers and partners within academia, research institutes, and industry. Above all, you are determined to continuously develop your skills and contribute to research that advances knowledge within process metallurgy. You should have a Ph.D. in metallurgy, chemical engineering, inorganic chemistry, environmental chemistry, process engineering, or materials science. You should have experience in experimental work within high-temperature chemistry, experience with thermodynamic calculations, and characterization using various methods. You must have good communication skills, both written and oral in English. Furthermore, you should have a high sense of responsibility and safety awareness as the experimental work occurs at high temperatures and in various gas atmospheres. Information Full-time fixed term employment for two years with placement in Luleå. Starting: by agreement. For further information contact: Fredrik Engström, Assistant Professor and Acting Subject Representative, (+46)920-49 1388, fredrik.i.engstrom@ltu.se Union representatives: SACO-S Kjell Johansson (+46)920-49 1529 kjell.johansson@ltu.se   OFR-S Lars Frisk, (+46)920-49 1792 lars.frisk@ltu.se   For full ad visit; Arbeta hos oss | Luleå tekniska universitet (ltu.se) In 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 application: 2 May 2024 Reference number: 1189-2024