PhD Candidate in Applied Geochemistry

Luleå University of Technology is experiencing strong growth with world-leading expertise in several research areas. We are shaping the future through innovative education and groundbreaking research results, and from the Arctic region, we create global societal benefits. 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 2 billion SEK per year. We currently have 1,500 employees and 17,900 students.

In the coming years, multi-billion investments will be made in Norrbotten and Västerbotten in large projects aimed at creating a more sustainable society both nationally and globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these highly relevant research projects and the societal transformation that follows. We have a wide range of educational programs to match the skills that are in demand. We hope that you will help us build the sustainable companies and communities of the future.

Humans are today a significant geological factor affecting the Earth on a local, regional, and global scale. Concerns about human impact on the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and potentially toxic effects on the biosphere have highlighted the need for environmental geochemistry. Research and education in environmental geochemistry are crucial in the green transition. Applied geochemistry relates to environmental issues linked to the mining industry, infrastructure development, and community building, hydropower expansion, forestry, acid sulfate soils, and sulfide-bearing rocks. In environmental forensics, we use isotopes, multi-element analyses, and mineral identification to trace the sources, mobility, and geochemical processes of pollutants in both natural and affected systems. We are now seeking a PhD candidate for our group in applied geochemistry to understand element mobility in contaminated systems and the development of bioremediation techniques. As a PhD candidate, you will have the opportunity to utilize our excellent laboratory structure and state-of-the-art analytical methods.

Subject Description

Applied geochemistry encompasses studies of the occurrence and mobility of elements in the environment, with a particular focus on methods to prevent and reduce environmental impacts from mining.

Project Description

Anthropogenic activities often lead to the release of heavy metals and other critical elements into surrounding environments, where their mobility poses significant risks to water quality, ecosystems, and human health. Understanding and mitigating these effects is crucial for a sustainable society. This project focuses on the mobility and transport of trace elements and rare earth metals in affected environments, emphasizing their interactions with hydrological and mineralogical systems. The mobility of critical raw materials is still not well understood. Therefore, combining mineralogical and geochemical analysis in a geo-forensic approach will enhance our understanding. By integrating geochemistry and bioremediation techniques, the project aims to develop innovative, passive water treatment solutions by reusing waste materials.

Microalgae are highly effective at absorbing heavy metals and can be stimulated with recycled bioash, improving their growth and efficiency for metal uptake. The system will complement traditional water treatment methods and offer a sustainable approach to reducing pollution, recycling valuable metals, and improving water quality in affected areas. This research provides critical insights into element mobility and presents a scalable, environmentally friendly solution to mitigate environmental impact.

Job Responsibilities

A PhD position involves both theoretical and practical scientific work in accordance with an individual study plan. As a PhD candidate, you will be part of a research group where collaborative scientific work is conducted. This includes collecting and analyzing data under supervision and writing scientific articles. You will also take part in graduate courses, participate in the graduate school, and engage in the department's seminar activities. Furthermore, you will present your research nationally and internationally. The PhD position may also include departmental duties.

Qualifications

You are eligible to apply for this position if you have a Master's degree or a foreign degree equivalent to a Master's degree in natural resource engineering, geoscience, geochemistry, or a similar focus area. Experience in biogeochemistry and mining technology is advantageous for the position. As a PhD candidate, you should have good collaboration skills and oral and written communication skills in English.

Information

The PhD position is time-limited for 4 years, with teaching and other departmental duties potentially amounting to up to 20% of full-time. Place of employment: Luleå. Expected start: immediately or by agreement.

For further information, please contact Sarah Conrad, University Lecturer, 0920-49 3478, [email protected]

Union representatives:
SACO-S Diana Chroneer, 0920-49 2037 [email protected]
OFR-S Lars Frisk, 0920-49 1792 [email protected]

Application

We prefer that you apply for the position via the application button below, attaching a personal letter and CV/resume along with copies of verified degree certificates. Please mark your application with the reference number below. Both the application and degree certificates should be written in Swedish or English.

Application deadline: January 29, 2025
Reference number: 5324–2024