PhD Student in Applied geochemistry, with a particular focus on methods to prevent or reduce the environmental impact of mining.
Ref 1090-2022
Luleå University of Technology experiences rapid growth with world-leading expertise within several research domains. We shape the future through innovative education and groundbreaking research results and drawing on our location in the Arctic region, we create global societal benefit. Our scientific and artistic research and education are carried out in close collaboration with international, national and regional companies, public actors and leading universities. Luleå University of Technology has an annual turnover of SEK 1.8 billion. Today, we have 1,770 staff and 17,200 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 research subject Applied Geochemistry belongs to the Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering, where research and education in the mining, construction and environmental areas contribute to the development of a long-term sustainable society. Applied geochemistry at Luleå University of Technology includes analytical chemistry, isotope geochemistry, environmental forensics and environmental mineralogy. We are now searching for a PhD student in Applied Geochemistry to be part of collaboration research together with Boliden.
Subject description
Applied Geochemistry comprises studies into the occurrence and mobility of the chemical elements in the environment, with a particular focus on methods to prevent or reduce the environmental impact of mining.
Project description
The project is in collaboration and funded by Boliden, and aims to prevent weathering of sulfide minerals and release of metals. Mine waste generated by the beneficiation plant (tailings) or from excavation of rocks (waste rock) extraction waste are often enriched in various metal sulfides, especially pyrite (FeS2). When the sulfide are exposed to oxygen acidified metal-rich drainage can be generated. This project aims to prevent weathering of primary waste rock that are not possible to use as a resource. Techniques for prevention of weathering of sulfide has been studied in lab condition. This project aims to test the technique in field scale, but also study the geochemical process in micro-scale. It is a theoretical research area, but great focus is on the practical application of the research: the goal of your research is that Boliden in the future can implement the research results practically for the treatment of waste rock. The research will be conducted in close collaboration with those who currently handle extraction waste and AMD problems at Boliden.
Duties
As a PhD student, you are expected to perform both experimental and theoretical work within your research studies as well as communicate your results at national and international conferences, in scientific journals and with Boliden. Most of your working time will be devoted to your own research studies. You are expected to be able to plan and conduct both fieldwork and laboratory work in collaboration with internal colleagues and external partners. Presentation of your work orally and in written form is an important part of the work. In addition, you will have the opportunity to develop the teacher role.
Qualifications
To be eligible for the position, a Masters degree in Geosciences including geochemistry, Natural Resources Engineering, Environmental Science, or equivalent qualifications are required. You must have good knowledge of English in speech and writing.
Besides good grades in relevant subjects from the undergraduate degree, the following merit criteria will be applied for all position:
– Knowledge and experience from mining sector
– Good understanding and skills in mineralogy
– Knowledge and experience of fieldwork in environmental geochemistry
– Good knowledge of Swedish in speech and writing
For further information about a specific subject see General curricula 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 with max 20%.
For further information about the positions please contact Professor and Head of Subject Lena Alakangas, +46 920-491396,
Lena.Alakangas@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.
Reference number: 1090-2022
Closing day for applications: April 17, 2022