30 June 2026
From Japan and Korea Back to Luleå
After six years in Japan and South Korea, Daniel Hedman is returning to Luleå University of Technology. With support from the ÅForsk Foundation, he will establish his own research program focused on machine learning-based modeling of advanced nanomaterials.
During his years in Japan and South Korea, Daniel Hedman developed methods that combine machine learning, quantum mechanical calculations, and supercomputing to study how materials grow at the atomic level. He is now returning to Luleå University of Technology as an Assistant Professor.
"My time abroad has given me both a strong international network and new research tools. Above all, I have seen how powerful machine learning-based modeling can be for understanding how advanced materials are formed and evolve," says Daniel Hedman.
Developing the Materials of the Future
Daniel Hedman's research focuses on nanomaterials—materials built atom by atom that can exhibit properties vastly different from those of conventional materials. By combining advanced computational methods with machine learning, he aims to make it possible to predict and optimize the production of such materials more efficiently.
In the long term, the results could contribute to the development of new materials for applications in electronics, energy, and sustainable technologies.
"The goal is to understand and control material growth in ways that have not previously been possible. This could make the development of new materials both faster and more precise," says Daniel Hedman.
Bringing International Experience Home
Returning to Luleå University of Technology was a natural choice. The university offers both strong expertise in applied physics and access to the research infrastructure required for advanced computational materials research.
After his years in Japan and South Korea, Daniel Hedman also brings experience from some of Asia's leading research environments.
"My international experience is about more than just professional contacts. I am also bringing back new ways of working and experience in integrating theory, computation, and experiments. This can foster new collaborations and strengthen research here at the university," says Daniel Hedman.
Support to Build a New Research Environment
The ÅForsk repatriation grant gives Daniel Hedman the opportunity to establish his research program at Luleå University of Technology.
"The grant provides me with the time and resources to build my own research program and establish a long-term research environment here in Sweden. It is also an important stepping stone toward future research initiatives," says Daniel Hedman.
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