PhD Student in Design, LTU Arts-Based Research Center, ARC

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 SEK 2 billion per year. We currently have 1,500 employees and 17,900 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.LTU ARC is an interdisciplinary research platform that explores the interplay between art and science, focusing on developing forms for artistic and interdisciplinary co-creation. LTU ARC includes methods for citizen science and is based on two thematic clusters with a shared research school for exploratory practices LTU ARC | Luleå tekniska universitet

Within the framework of LTU ARC, we are now looking for a PhD student in design who will explore the theories and practices of design research, challenge prevailing norms, and co-create to promote sustainability, inclusion, and social transformation. The research takes place in a dynamic and collaborative environment where experimental development and design contribute to sustainable societal transformation in northern Sweden.

Subject description

For research subject description, see link Design | Luleå tekniska universitet

Project description

As a PhD student, you will have the opportunity to participate in diverse and expansive design research, ranging from visual communication to the design of entire places and systems. LTU ARC is a place where experimental exploration and critical thinking meet with the aim of creating profound change. If you are driven to explore the power of design to reshape the world, we welcome your application and look forward to reading your research proposal.

Responsibilities

A PhD position involves both theoretical and practical work, with the goal of completing a doctoral dissertation. You will be trained in scientific work through PhD courses, publishing scientific articles, presenting at national and international conferences, and exploring through design work communicated in various forms and media, such as exhibitions, prototypes, performances, films, etc. This PhD position may also include tasks such as teaching, projects, and assignments.

Qualifications

You have the general eligibility for doctoral studies if you have completed an advanced-level degree, have met course requirements of at least 240 credits, of which at least 60 credits are at the advanced level, or have acquired equivalent knowledge in another way within or outside the country. See the eligibility requirements in the current general study plan for the design subject here.

The position requires substantial experience in design work, such as personal design practice, employment in industry, or work as a consultant, which should be demonstrable through a portfolio. The applicant should be motivated for PhD studies, able to express themselves verbally and in writing in both Swedish and English and possess strong collaboration and communication skills. The motivation and ability to take on the PhD training will be an important criterion.

We encourage applicants to submit a research proposal that highlights specific areas of interest and clearly shows how these can be explored through practice-based design research. The research proposal should include:


• Introductiondescribing your design philosophy in relation to sustainability and societal transformation in the north and your chosen research questions


• Research Overviewof existing design research in your selected area


• Implementation:The design practices, studies, methods, and techniques you intend to use and/or develop


• Relevance:The potential contribution of your research to the field of design and sustainability practices


• Portfolio of your previous work

Your research proposal will be crucial to our assessment of your suitability for the PhD program in design within the framework of LTU ARC. We are looking for candidates ready to challenge conventions and norms, who are creative in their exploratory practice, and who have a strong desire to push the boundaries of design's role in sustainable societal transformation.

Further information

Employment as a PhD student is limited to maximum 4 years, teaching and other department duties may be added with max 20%. Placement: Luleå. Possible start: January 2025.

For further information about the position, please contact Chaired professor Åsa Wikberg-Nilsson, 0920-491342, asa.wikberg-nilsson@ltu.se or Head of division Jörgen Normark, 0920-491480,  jorgen.normark@ltu.se

Union representatives:
SACO-S Kjell Johansson (+46)920-49 1529 kjell.johansson@ltu.se  
OFR-S Lars Frisk, (+46)920-49 1792 lars.frisk@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: 31 October 2024

Reference number: 2026-2024