Doctoral student in steel structures Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden

Chalmers University of Technology invites applications for a fully funded doctoral student position in steel structures within the Division of Structural Engineering at the Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering. The department is renowned for addressing contemporary and emerging challenges in the built and natural environment, including resource utilization, pollution, climate change, digitalization, and inequality. The division aims to provide world-class education and internationally leading research, focusing on extending the service life of existing structures and developing new materials and methods for robust and sustainable concrete, steel, composite, and timber structures.

This doctoral position is part of the InfraCirc project, a three-year research initiative funded by the Swedish Energy Agency. The project seeks to establish a foundation for the reuse of welded steel components in steel and composite bridges. Research will be conducted in close collaboration with research institutes, stakeholders, industry actors, consultancies, and branch organizations to identify optimal strategies for reusing large welded structures. The project also emphasizes 'Design for adaptation and reuse' in new steel bridges, with the doctoral candidate contributing to the development of innovative bridge and connection concepts that enable adaptable bridge construction.

As a doctoral student, you will take advanced courses within the Graduate School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, develop your own scientific concepts, and communicate research results both verbally and in writing. The position typically includes teaching at the undergraduate level or performing other duties corresponding to 20% of working hours. The contract is a fixed-term appointment of four years, with the possibility to extend to five years if teaching duties are undertaken. The starting salary is 35,725 SEK per month (valid from May 1, 2026), and you will enjoy all employee benefits offered by Chalmers, including a dynamic and inspiring working environment in Gothenburg.

Eligibility requirements include a Master's degree (120 credits) or a Master's degree (60 credits) in civil engineering, or a 4-year Bachelor's degree for candidates educated outside Sweden. Strong written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory. Experience in design and engineering practice is valuable, and additional experience in the production or design of steel structures, as well as knowledge in sustainable design and life-cycle assessment, will strengthen your application. Physical presence throughout the study period is required, and a valid residence permit must be presented by the study start date.

Chalmers is committed to improving gender balance and actively works with equality projects such as the GENIE Initiative. Swedish language courses are available for non-native speakers to help you settle in. The university offers generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, and healthcare. For more information about doctoral studies at Chalmers, visit the university website.

To apply, prepare your application in English and attach all required documents as PDF files (CV, personal letter, introduction, motivation, thesis, transcripts). Use the application form link provided. Incomplete applications and those sent by email will not be considered. References will be requested after the interview. The application deadline is August 5, 2026.

For questions, contact Professor Mohammad Al-Emrani at [email protected].