PhD Student (Licentiate) in Extending the Use of Recycled Asphalt and Aggregates for Roads KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden

This funded PhD position at KTH Royal Institute of Technology, in collaboration with the Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute (VTI), focuses on advancing the use of recycled asphalt and marginal quality aggregates in road construction and maintenance. The project aims to optimize sustainable materials for roads by developing experimental and numerical tools to evaluate the mechanical properties of recycled asphalt and asphalt with marginal aggregates. A key aspect of the research involves further developing the spherical indentation test for asphalt materials, extending its application to recycled and marginal materials, and investigating damage and plastic flow resistance under varying environmental conditions. The project also seeks to link local material properties to overall pavement performance using multi-scale numerical modelling based on the Finite Element method.

As a doctoral student, you will be part of a dynamic research group within the Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering at KTH, working closely with VTI. The position offers employment at KTH for the first two years, leading to a licentiate degree, with the possibility to continue doctoral studies and employment at VTI for an additional two years. Supervision will be provided by Associate Professor Denis Jelagin (KTH, main supervisor), Dr. Manfred N. Partl (co-supervisor), and Dr. Ehsan Ghafoori (VTI, co-supervisor).

Eligibility requirements include a second cycle degree (such as a master's) or equivalent, with at least 240 higher education credits (including 60 at the second-cycle level), and English proficiency equivalent to English B/6. Selection criteria emphasize goal orientation, perseverance, independence, collaboration, professionalism, and analytical skills, with significant weight given to personal attributes. Security clearance may be required for certain roles.

The position is fully funded with a monthly salary according to KTH’s doctoral student salary agreement and includes employee benefits. The total employment period may last up to four years, with the licentiate degree typically completed in two years. The workplace offers a creative and inclusive environment, with a commitment to equality, diversity, and sustainability.

Applications must be submitted via KTH’s recruitment system by January 7, 2026. Required documents include a CV, application letter, diplomas and grades, language certificates, certified translations if applicable, and representative publications or technical reports. For further information, contact Associate Professor Denis Jelagin at [email protected].

Join KTH and contribute to innovative research in sustainable road technology, benefiting from excellent working conditions and opportunities for professional growth in Stockholm, Sweden.