PhD Student Position in Mineral Processing: Beneficiation and Purification of Graphite Ores

Luleå University of Technology, a leading institution in the Arctic region, is offering a fully funded PhD student position in mineral processing, focusing on the beneficiation and purification of graphite ores. The university is renowned for its innovative education and ground-breaking research, collaborating closely with industry and public partners to drive the green transition and sustainable development. This position is part of a dynamic research group working on a project that aims to develop and optimize separation and purification strategies for graphite ores, which are critical raw materials for battery production and the green transition. The research will involve designing beneficiation processes, including gravity separation, froth flotation with biodegradable reagents and nano-bubbles, and selective leaching to remove impurities. The project will also explore advanced purification methods to upgrade graphite concentrates to battery-grade products. A key focus will be on understanding how mineralogical and textural characteristics of graphite ores influence process performance and separation efficiency. Experimental work will be conducted in state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with the latest analytical instruments and process equipment. As a PhD student, you will engage in both theoretical and experimental research, collaborate with colleagues and industrial partners, and participate in national and international conferences. You will also undertake compulsory and optional doctoral courses and be part of the department's researcher school. The main tasks include laboratory-scale testing of beneficiation processes, characterization of materials using techniques such as Raman spectroscopy, SEM, and XRD, and scientific writing and dissemination of results. Applicants must have a master's degree (120 ECTS) in mineral processing, natural resource engineering, or an equivalent field, with strong theoretical and experimental background in mineral processing and mineralogical characterization. Proficiency in English, both spoken and written, is required. The position is based in Luleå, Sweden, and employment is limited to 4 years, with possible teaching and departmental duties up to 20%. The application should include a CV, personal letter, and verified diplomas, written in English or Swedish. The deadline for applications is January 11, 2026. For further information, contact Professor Saeed Chelgani, Professor Jan Rosenkranz, or Associate Professor Mehdi Parian. Apply online using the provided links and reference number 6067-2025. Join Luleå University of Technology to contribute to cutting-edge research and the sustainable supply of critical raw materials for a fossil-free future.