A PhD student in Mechanical Engineering, Additive Manufacturing

Research Environment
As a PhD student in mechanical engineering and materials science, focusing on additive manufacturing, you will conduct research at the Sports Tech Research Centre (STRC) Mid Sweden University (MIUN) for 75% of the time (second to fourth year) and also work with the Barcelona Research Centre in Multiscale Science and Engineering (CCEM) at Universitat Politécnica de Catalunya – Barcelona Tech (UPC) for 25% of the time (first year). This provides a unique opportunity to work in two dynamic research environments and be part of an international academic setting.

At STRC, research focuses on additive manufacturing in metal, with a specific focus on electron beam-based powder bed fusion, where multidisciplinary work aims to develop both processes and materials. CCEM at UPC, focuses on research, development and innovation in the fields of micro- and nano-engineering, biomaterials, environment recovery and energy harvesting.

International Research School
The doctoral position is part of the international research school IRS TransTech, where you will have the opportunity to collaborate with leading international universities and Swedish companies. The research school focuses on transformative technologies such as AI, IoT, and advanced materials, with the goal of driving sustainable industrial development and strengthening international research and business networks.

Job description
We are seeking a PhD student to work on process and material development within additive manufacturing in metals, with a focus on the powder bed fusion method electron beam melting. The project will require both theoretical understanding and practical skills in additive manufacturing equipment and material characterization, as well as programming. You will explore new ways of controlling the additive manufacturing process and investigate the relationship between material, process, morphology/microstructure and functionality of refractory metals and specifically tungsten. The research will be applied and multidisciplinary, and includes both laboratory work as well as modelling/programming/characterisation, but the methods will be adapted to personal strengths and interests. The project will be conducted in close collaboration with our industrial partners.

Independent third-cycle studies encompassing research (80-100%), teaching and administrative tasks (0-20%). The first year will be carried out at UPC Barcelona, Spain, after which the research will be completed for three years at the Mid Sweden University, in Östersund, Sweden.

Entry requirements
The candidate needs to fulfill the requirements to register at the doctoral program in both UPC and MIUN. For UPC see the following link. General entry requirements include a second-cycle level qualification, or fulfilment of courses comprising at least 300 credits of which at least 60 credits must be at second-cycle level, or the equivalent knowledge gained in some other way in Sweden or abroad. Specific entry requirements include at least 90 credits in the subject of Engineering Physics/Physics/Materials Science/Mechanical Engineering or the equivalent knowledge gained in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

Assessment criteria
Previous experience in, and good knowledge of, material science and engineering are particularly meritorious. Experience in process and material development with powder bed fusion methods and programming are also advantageous, as well as experience in research projects and teaching. 

Personal qualities
We are looking for an individual that takes initiative, is responsible, builds relationships, and is structured in planning, organizing, and prioritizing work effectively.

Other assessment criteria 
In addition to the formal eligibility requirements, the selection will also be based on other work (such as thesis work), previous employment, and interviews with applicants. 

The research is conducted in collaboration with industry but also in an international environment. Therefore, very good skills in English, both oral and written, are advantageous.

A description of the applicant's vision and goals regarding the field of materials science and additive manufacturing should be included in the application.

Employment process
Processing of the appointment will comply with the provisions in Chapter 5 of the Higher Education Ordinance, and will be carried out in accordance with Mid Sweden University’s Employment Procedures. 

Terms of employment
The doctoral studentship position corresponds to four years of full-time studies and is expected to lead to a Degree of Doctor. The entry date is 2025-09-01 or as agreed.

The PhD studies will start with one year at UPC in Barcelona (Spain) with local terms of employment. Year 2-4 the PhD studies will be carried out at Mid Sweden University, Östersund, with a three year doctoral studentship position.

Initial doctoral student positions are valid for a maximum of one year, after which the position may be renewed by no longer than two years at a time. Provisions regarding doctoral studentship employment can be found in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), Chapter 5, Sections 1-7. 

Place of employment: Östersund, Sweden (year 2-4) and Barcelona (year 1).

Salary: First year according to UPC and in accordance with Mid Sweden University’s salary scale for doctoral students, for the three years in Sweden.

Information
For more detailed information contact Prof. Lars-Erik Rännar, lars-erik.rannar@miun.se,
Prof Emilio Jimenez Pique, emilio.jimenez@upc.edu, or visit us online:

- Sports Tech Research Centre at Mid Sweden University

- Barcelona Research Center in Multiscale Science and Engineering

Application
Application documents must be submitted in Swedish or English. For this recruitment application documents in English are strongly preferred.
The application should include a verified CV, copies of official transcripts and degree certificates, description of objectives according to the above as well as other documents the applicant would like to refer to.

Please send in your application through our recruitment system no later than 2025-06-09.