Ph.D. position in Geology and Geochemistry

Ph.D.position in Geology and Geochemistry, project: The influence of differential stress Ph.D.position in Geology and Geochemistry, at the Department of Geology and Geochemistry.Project: The influence of differential stress on solvent-mediated phase transformation: Insights from in-situ experiments and numerical modelling.Ref nr SU 617-3187-08.Final date for application: January 30, 2009.The position will be funded jointly by the European Commission and the Department.Framework of the project This project is part of the large European wide network Delta-Min (www.delta-min.com) comprising 9 mineral and material science partners and 4 industry partners with the aim to significantly increase our understanding of the mechanisms of mineral reequilibration (phase transformation) in the presence of a fluid phase.This will be investigated in a wide range of minerals and rocks, under a range of chemical and physical conditions, using both natural and experimental samples.The student will have the unique opportunity to gain expertise in a wide range of experimental, analytical and numerical techniques through joint short courses, summer schools, multilateral supervision and exchanges between the hosts.In addition, the student will have ample contact and advise from industry as well as gain industrial experience through industry placements.Therefore, the student must be willing to spend at least 2-3 months per year in another European institution/industry (and enjoying it!).The working language will be English.The project This exciting project investigates the influence of differential stress on solvent-mediated phase transformations.Within the project we will perform experiments using the unique see through pressure and deformation cell at the department.During experiments we will control the fluid composition, fluid pressure and temperature while deforming the samples at different strain rates.We will not only observe and quantify the replacement mechanisms but also investigate the sites of change relative to stress concentrations.In addition, we will record and quantify precisely the formation and evolution of porosity development during the replacement reaction.The experimental and analytical part of the project will be complemented by numerical modelling using the modelling system ELLE .Depending on the interest of the student, comparison with microstructures developed in rock samples from "natural laboratories" or in industrial materials may be integrated in the research project.Requirements EU requirements: Applicants must be nationals of a EU Member State, Associated country or third country other than Sweden, and must not have resided in Sweden for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to date of selection by the host institution.Applicants must hold a diploma giving access to doctoral studies in the country in which the diploma was obtained.Stockholm University Requirements: Applicants must have completed a research degree (e.g.Masters) or university study of 240 p (4 years), with at least 60 p (1 year) at the advanced (research) level in Earth Science or Physics/Chemistry, including a 30 p independent project.Training in microtextural characterization and processes, experimental experience and/or numerical simulations will be of advantage.Conditions A full-time position of four years duration.The position is available from April 2009.Contact For more information contact: Dr.See also: Project