In memory of Professor Gunnar Almgren

The former chair of Mining and Rock Engineering Gunnar Almgren has passed away (1931-2025).

Professor Gunnar Almgren was a prominent researcher at Luleå University of Technology, specializing in mining and underground construction engineering. Gunnar held his professorship in Mining and Rock Engineering from 1974 until his retirement 1996. He also served as Deputy Head of the department from 1977 to 1988 and again from 1991 to 1993.. In 1980, Gunnar was elected to the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences (IVA), Division V, for Mining and Materials Engineering.

During the 1970s and 1980s, he played a central role at the Luossavaara Research Mine in Kiruna – one of the world’s largest R&D projects in underground mining at that time. The main research areas in rock engineering by his team can be mentioned as diesel exhaust research, TBM drilling, a range of different mining methods, rock blasting, loading and transportation, as well as controlled underground ventilation.

At the “Large Scale Underground Mining” symposium hosted in Luleå, Almgren presented the results of five years of research at Luossavaara to an international audience from all around the world. He highlighted techniques used in mines such as Kristineberg and Malmberget. His work also laid the foundation for systematized mechanization of large-hole drilling and sublevel caving, improving cost-efficiency and safety in rock engineering.

Almgren’s influence extended beyond Sweden through academic networks. He was instrumental in founding the “Society of Mining Professors” and chaired the organization’s inaugural meeting in Luleå, where he was elected its first president. The Society aims to promote international collaboration in mining education and to develop high-quality academic programs with strong technical and environmental awareness.

In addition to his research, Almgren was a dedicated teacher, mentor, and colleague – appreciated for his precision, systematic thinking, and commitment to student development.

Through his work and global engagement, Professor Gunnar Almgren left a lasting mark on the field of mining and rock engineering. His contributions continue to shape both academic and practical approaches in the industry, and his legacy remains an inspiration to future generations.