Doctoral fellow

Last application date
Feb 29, 2024 00:00
Department
WE13 - Department of Geology
Contract
Limited duration
Degree
Master in Geology (or similar)
Occupancy rate
100%
Vacancy type
Research staff

Job description

In the framework of the FWO funded research project "FluidControl: modifying the pore network and fluid flow to improve the durability of sedimentary rocks against salt damage" we are looking for an enthusiastic student who will work on multi-scale stone characterization (WP1), the controlled modification of the pore structure (WP2) and the impact of this modification on the stone's durability (WP4). This person will work in close collaboration with the PI, Prof. Veerle Cnudde and her postdoc and will be assisted by several PProGRess team members at Ghent University. As a PhD student working on this project, you will take initiative to set up research experiments that modify pore surface properties to influence pore scale dynamics and thereby changing fluid flow and salt crystallization inside porous rocks.

The candidate will be expected to

  • Perform described research and strive towards successful project execution.
  • Present research at international conferences and in scientific international journals.
  • Cooperate with researchers active within the research group and outside.

The selected candidate will be offered a 4-year employment, with an intermediate evaluation after the first year (1+3 years). The salary is competitive and will be determined by the university salary scales. In addition, staff members can count on several benefits, such as a broad range of training and educational opportunities, 36 days of vacation leave, bicycle allowance, and more. The finality of the position is to obtain a doctoral degree.

Job profile

We are looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate with a Master's degree (obtained by the time the position starts) in geology (or equivalent) with a strong interest in building stones, salt crystallization, weathering, advanced image processing techniques and/or image processing and analysis. Experience in earth sciences with a demonstrable affinity for natural stones, microstructural analysis, and geochemistry is a plus. The applicant must have strong analytical skills to critically assess result and find ways to improve them. A successful candidate also has an experimental mindset, is able to adapt/adjust the activity plans based on the research outcome. Good communication skills are essential as well as proficiency in written and spoken English. The applicant must have good practical lab skills and is ideally familiar with advanced imaging techniques. Moreover, the applicant should have excellent written and spoken English skills and be highly motivated to work in an international multidisciplinary team.

How to apply

Send your CV, transcripts of study results and a motivation letter to Veerle.cnudde@UGent.be and danielle.schram@ugent.be . The transcripts of study results at the time of application are not necessarily official (yet), but these will be required upon recruitment.

Please note that starting February 5th, 2024, there will be continuous evaluation of the candidates until the vacancy is filled.