Ph.D. position in Geology and Geochemistry

Ph.D.position in Geology and Geochemistry, at the Department of Geology and Geochemistry.Project: Dissolution rates of cerium dioxide as an example for crystalline material: From experiments and observations to a predictive model.(Upplösningshastighet av cerium dioxid som exempel för kristallint material: Från experiment och observationer till teoretisk modell). This project is part of the large European wide network Delta-Min 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 investigates the underlying principles of dissolution at sample surfaces and aims to establish a model to predict dissolution rates.During the project the students will investigate in detail the kinetics of fluids reacting with solid surfaces.Within the project we will perform dissolution experiments on cerium dioxide as an analog for uranium oxid using fluid cells at the department.Investigations will focus on the link between dissolution rates and high surface energy sites, temperature and chemical composition of the fluid.Once the analytical techniques are in place, several experimental series will be set-up with different materials of interest both to the earth science community and industry.The experimental and analytical part of the project may be complemented by numerical modelling.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.A full-time position of four years duration.The position is available from April 2009.For more information contact: Dr.