PhD Positions in Polymeric Materials, Material Physics, and Non-Destructive Diagnostics at KTH KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden

The Polymeric Materials Division at KTH Royal Institute of Technology is offering two fully funded PhD positions in the fields of polymeric materials, material physics, and non-destructive diagnostics. The research addresses critical challenges in energy, safety, and sustainability, focusing on the ageing and diagnostics of polymers used in nuclear power plants and other demanding environments.

Project 1: Ageing of Polymers in Nuclear Power Plants. This project aims to deepen the understanding of ageing mechanisms in safety-critical polymer components under operational conditions such as temperature, radiation, humidity, and oxygen availability. The research will enable more accurate lifetime predictions for existing components and inform the design of new, longer-lasting materials. The work integrates fundamental studies of chemical and mobility changes in polymers with risk-reducing strategies and advanced monitoring techniques, including AI-based modeling and digital twin workflows.

Project 2: Material Physics and Non-Destructive Diagnostics of Polymers. This project focuses on developing non-destructive methods for monitoring the condition and assessing the lifespan of polymeric materials in nuclear environments. Techniques such as low-field NMR and advanced material characterization will be used to establish quantitative links between molecular dynamics, microstructure, and functional degradation. The goal is to create robust, material-anchored indicators for non-destructive lifetime assessment in safety-critical settings.

Both projects are part of a larger, interdisciplinary research program with strong international collaborations and access to modern infrastructure. The research environment is dynamic and supportive, offering opportunities for professional growth and development.

Supervision: The main supervisors are Professor Mikael Hedenqvist and Professor Richard Olsson, with Payam Pourmand and Fritjof Nilsson as assistant supervisors. The projects are based at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden.

Eligibility: Applicants must hold a master's degree or equivalent in materials science, polymer technology, engineering physics, chemical engineering, or a related field. Required skills include knowledge of polymeric materials, material characterization, or material physics, and proficiency in English (English B/6 or equivalent). Merits include experience in ageing studies, polymer degradation, spectroscopy (FTIR/NMR), mechanical testing, and programming or data analysis related to material characterization. Personal qualities such as goal orientation, persistence, independence, teamwork, and analytical ability are highly valued.

Funding: These are fully funded PhD positions with a monthly salary according to KTH's doctoral salary agreement. Employment is full-time for up to four years, with benefits and working conditions as per KTH's regulations. Doctoral students may undertake up to 20% departmental duties.

Application: Applications must be submitted via KTH's recruitment system by March 5, 2026. Required documents include a CV, cover letter, degree certificates, transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and relevant publications. All documents should be in English or Swedish, with certified translations if necessary.

For more information, visit the KTH job portal or contact Professor Mikael Hedenqvist ([email protected]) or Professor Richard Olsson ([email protected]).