PhD Student in Urban Water Engineering – climate change effects and adaptation in urban streams

Organisation/Company

Lule university of technology

Research Field

Engineering

Researcher Profile

First Stage Researcher (R1)

Application Deadline

22 Feb 2026 - 12:00 (UTC)

Country

Sweden

Type of Contract

Temporary

Job Status

Full-time

Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by a EU programme

Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

Luleå University of Technology is in strong growth with world-leading competence in several research areas. We shape the future through innovative education and ground-breaking research results, and based on the Arctic region, we create global social benefit. Our scientific and artistic research and education are conducted in close collaboration with international, national and regional companies, public actors and leading universities. Luleå University of Technology has a total turnover of nearly SEK 2,1 billion per year. We currently have 1,900 employees and 18,700 students.

In the coming years, multi-billion investments will be made in large projects in Northern Sweden to create a fossil-free society both nationally and globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these cutting-edge research projects and in the societal transformation that they entail. We offer a broad range of courses and study programmes to match the skills in demand. We hope that you will help us to build the sustainable companies and societies of the future.

The Urban Water Engineering research group at the Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural resources engineering at Luleå University of Technology seeks a driven and committed PhD student with a focus on the effects of climate change and different adaptation measures on urban streams. Take the opportunity to join one of the leading stormwater research groups in the world with an international, creative and dynamic environment and close cooperation with the industry and universities worldwide.

The Urban Water Engineering research group has a strong position in research and education on urban water systems, primarily stormwater, small-scale wastewater and sewage systems. The group consists of about 50 members including senior researchers, Swedish and international adjunct professors and about 20 doctoral students. The group has an extensive national and international collaboration network. The group's overall goal is to contribute to the development of sustainable urban water systems.  More information on www.ltu.se/water

Subject description
Urban Water Engineering encompasses the entire urban water system (storm drains, drinking water supply and wastewater) with respect to collection, transport and treatment, as well as organisation and planning. The research aims to encourage a strong economy, clean environment and the wise use of resources, while preserving the public’s health and safety.

Project description
Urbanisation has a major effect on smaller stream that run through cities and are affected by increased hydraulic loads from stormwater systems as well as modifications to the natural stream including culverting. This can lead to increased flooding risks in cities that can increase further with climate change leading to intensified precipitation and changes in snowmelt patterns. Different climate adaptation measures such as ponds can be built to manage risks, but the combined effects of urbanization, climate change, and adaptation measures remains complex and requires further investigation.

This research project will consist of (1) field measurements in urban streams in Umeå, Sweden where climate adaptation measures are planned, and (2) hydrological/hydraulic modelling of urban streams and adaptation measures for current conditions and future climate scenarios. The results from the project will contribute to better estimations of how urban streams and climate change measures interact. The project is carried out in cooperation with public authorities in Umeå municipality.

Results from this project will provide valuable information for improving biofilter design and thus performance. Within this project, the PhD student will be involved in collaboration with international researchers and communicating results with practitioners through LTU’s strong established competence networks.

Duties
As a PhD student, you will perform both experimental and theoretical work. You will learn how to collect and analyze scientific data within your research area as well as communicate your results at national and international conferences and in scientific journals. Most of your working time will be devoted to your own research studies, including both research and coursework. In addition, you will also carry out departmental duties, such as teaching and/or assisting in other research projects. You will have two or three supervisors who support you in your work.

Research work for this project will specifically include experimental work (planning, organizing and carrying out measurements in small streams) and hydraulic/hydrological modeling including investigations into the effects of different modelling approaches.

Qualifications
We seek a candidate with an MSc degree or equivalent or fully completed course requirements of at least 240 ETCS of which at least 60 ETCS are at an advanced level or equivalent. The degree should be within the field of water and environment, environmental engineering, natural resources engineering, civil engineering, or equivalent. Specific knowledge of hydrology, urban water engineering, basic computer programming (e.g. Matlab or Python) and experience carrying out measurements of stream flow (or similar) are meritorious. Other important skills are the ability to work independently and take initiative, as well as being able to explore new research areas.  

English language skills are required since the results will be presented internationally in scientific journals and at conferences. Swedish/Scandinavian language skills are beneficial, as they will facilitate communication with stakeholders and participation in teaching activities. Having a driver’s license is meritorious, as it will facilitate research work.

Applicants should provide contact details to minimum two reference persons on request.

For further information about a specific subject see
* General syllabus for the Board of the faculty of science and technology

Further information
Employment as a PhD student is limited to 4 years, teaching and other department duties may be added to that time with max 20%. Placement: Luleå. Starting: Spring 2026.

For further information about the position, please contact Associate Senior Lecturer Ico Broekhuizen, +46 920-49 35 70, ico.broekhuizen@ltu.se .

Union representatives
SACO-S Diana Chroneer,(+46 )920-49 2037 diana.chroneer@ltu.se
OFR-S Marika Vesterberg,(+46)920-49 1721 marika.vesterberg@ltu.se

In case of different interpretations of the English and Swedish versions of this announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.

Application
We prefer that you apply for this position by clicking on the apply button below. The application should include a CV, personal letter and copies of verified diplomas from high school and universities. Mark your application with the reference number below. Your application, including diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish.

Closing date for applications: February 22, 2026
Reference number: 640-2026

Website

https://web103.reachmee.com/ext/I003/583/main?site=5&validator=68a0c61034f021ba…

Research Field

Engineering

Education Level

Master Degree or equivalent

Languages

ENGLISH

Level

Excellent

Research Field

Engineering

Years of Research Experience

1 - 4

Number of offers available

1

Company/Institute

Lule university of technology

Country

Sweden

City

Luleå

Postal Code

97187

Street

Lule university of technology

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