PhD Position in Ore Geology: Metamorphic Graphite Mineralization and Critical Raw Materials in Northern Sweden

Luleå University of Technology, a leading European institution in mining-related research, is offering a PhD position in Ore Geology focused on the investigation of metamorphic graphite mineralization in northern Sweden. The project centers on the geological setting, genesis, and characterization of graphite deposits, with a particular emphasis on the Nunasvaara graphite deposit in northern Norrbotten, one of Europe’s most significant natural graphite resources and an EU-designated strategic critical raw material (CRM) project. The research will integrate field mapping, structural geology, geochronology, petrography, lithogeochemistry, XRD, and advanced microanalytical techniques such as SEM-WDS, electron microprobe, Raman spectroscopy, and SIMS to understand the processes controlling natural graphite mineralization, crystallinity, and quality. The project is part of a broader interdisciplinary initiative, Sustainable Supply of CRMs, which brings together ore geology, political science, and law to explore sustainable and just extraction and recycling of CRMs. The successful candidate will join the graduate school SUN (Natural Resources for Sustainability Transitions) and collaborate with Talga Group and its exploration geologists. Duties include both theoretical and practical work, such as publishing scientific articles, presenting at conferences, taking doctoral courses, and potentially teaching or performing other educational tasks. The position requires independent work, with most time devoted to doctoral studies, including geological field mapping, sample preparation, geochemical analysis, microanalytical characterization, and scientific writing. Applicants should have a strong interest in structural and metamorphic geology, excellent academic grades, and a recently obtained master's degree in Earth Sciences with relevant specialization. Experience in geological mapping and analytical techniques is a merit. Proficiency in English is required, with written proof necessary. The doctoral studies are full-time for four years, with possible departmental duties up to 20%. The position starts in February 2026, and the application deadline is November 23, 2025. Applications should include a CV, personal letter, verified diplomas, and evidence of English proficiency, and be submitted online in English or Swedish, marked with the reference number 4446-2025.