Thesis Work - Creating a 3D rock stress map based on hydraulic fracturing data

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As a thesis student with us, you’ll have the opportunity to put your theoretical knowledge into practice while gaining unique insight into our operations. You’ll become part of our team, contribute to our development, and acquire valuable experience that strengthens both your skills and your CV. We look forward to hearing your ideas and supporting your growth!

Shaping the future

At LKAB, we are leading the transformation of our industry toward a sustainable future. Just as we aim to reshape the world, we are committed to developing every individual on our team, both personally and professionally. Are you ready to help shape the future of the mining and mineral industry?

Background of the assignment

In the Kiirunavaara mine, a number of hydraulic fractures has been created as a part of a preconditioning campaign. In this process, a fracture is created at every 2.5 m interval along a hole. A number of holes have been fractured according to this system. the technology for creating a hydraulic fracture is similar to the one used for rock stress measurements.
The drill cores from the holes which have been hydraulically fractured have been geotechnically and lithologically logged. These data sets have yet not been used or combined.

Problem statement

Using the hydraulic fracturing data, create a 3D rock stress map.

Interpret the distribution and changes of the rock stress with regard to:
-location relative production area,
-local rock conditions
-large scale structural geology.

Comparing and evaluating the derived 3D stress map with:
-stress measurements and derived stress model for the site
-existing numerical models with regard to stress variation in the rock mass.

What you bring

It is a requirement that you are enrolled as a Master of science in Engineering specializing in Rock Mechanics, Mining, geotechnical or equivalent.
You would also need to have basic understanding of rock mechanics, mining operations and geology, as well as an interest in programming code and handling larger sets of different data.

Compensation for Thesis Projects and Practical Benefits at LKAB

For a thesis project approved by both the university and LKAB, we offer the following compensation:

• 35 000 SEK for a thesis equivalent to 30 ECTS credits.
• 20 000 SEK for a thesis equivalent to 15 ECTS credits.

If two students write together, the compensation is shared.

In addition to financial compensation, we offer:

• Travel reimbursement between the study location and LKAB
• Accommodation can be provided when physical presence on-site is required

More information

Start: January 2026 (or according to agreement)

Location: Kiruna. Alternatively, remote work with occasional on-site visits.

Scope: 30 credit, 20 weeks full-time study.

For more information about the thesis project, you are welcome to contact the supervisor/mentor: Albin Andersson; albin.k.andersson@lkab.com, +46 72 523 63 31.

If you have any questions regarding practical matters beyond the thesis project itself, please feel free to contact examensarbete@lkab.com

We appreciate your commitment and will get back to you if we consider your application suitable for the assignment. Thank you for wanting to do your thesis with us!