PhD student in Geology

The Department of Geological Sciences is a department within the Faculty of Science with courses at master's, bachelor's and orientation levels. The department supports a broad range of basic research within geology, geochemistry, marine geology and geophysics.

More information about us, please visit: the Department of Geological Sciences.

Project description

The Swedish bedrock has great potential for rare earth element (REE) mineral deposits that are in high demand as we transition away from fossil fuels to renewable energy. This PhD project entitled “Stratigraphic controls on skarn-type REE mineralisation in Bergslagen, Sweden” will investigate the extent and distribution of skarn-type REE mineralisation in the “REE-line” in central Bergslagen, Sweden. The historically significant area is the focus of current exploration but the extent and geological controls on REE mineralisation are not well known. A clear knowledge gap relates to the stratigraphic controls on REE mineralisation in the REE line. The goals of the project include: 1) characterization of the distribution of REE mineralisation in a series of transects across the REE line; 2) identification of key mineralogical and isotopic factors that correlate with, and can be used as vectors to REE mineralisation; and 3) developing lithological, isotopic and geochemical stratigraphic profiles which, when correlated with REE enrichment can potentially explain the controls on REE distribution in the REE line. The project will involve field mapping, petrography, in-situ mineral chemistry and stable isotope analyses. The project will use magnetite, which is intimately associated with the REE mineralisation in the area, as an indicator mineral through its trace element and oxygen isotope composition.

The project is funded by the Smart Exploration Research Centre (www.smartexploration.se) and the Department of Geological Sciences, Stockholm University. The successful candidate will be based at Stockholm University and will be expected to be an active participant in Smart Exploration Research Centre activities. The project will be co-supervised by Dr Erik Jonsson, SGU and Dr Thomas Zack, GU.

Qualification requirements

In order to be admitted to postgraduate education, the applicant must have the general and specific entry requirements. The qualification requirements must be met by the deadline for applications.

You meet general entry requirements if you have completed a second-cycle degree, or completed courses equivalent to at least 240 higher education credits, of which 60 credits must be in the second cycle, or have otherwise acquired equivalent knowledge in Sweden or elsewhere.

In order to meet the specific entry requirements, the general syllabus for doctoral studies in the field of Geology stipulates that applicants must normally have:

• At least 90 credits in geosciences.
• In addition, at least 60 credits at the advanced level, including 30 credits of independent work in geosciences.
• A classical geological background is required for this project and candidates are expected to have taken courses in mineralogy, petrography, ore geology, structural geology, field mapping and isotope geology.
• A valid driving license is required for field work.

Selection

The selection among the eligible candidates will be based on their capacity to benefit from the training. The following criteria will be used to assess this capacity: the candidate’s documented knowledge in a relevant field of research, written and oral proficiency in English, the capacity for analytical thinking, the ability to collaborate, as well as creativity, initiative, and independence.

The assessment will be based on previous experience and grades, the quality of the degree project, references, relevant experience, interviews, and the candidate’s written motivation for seeking the position. In addition, previous experience working with Swedish bedrock, field mapping and in-situ mineral analyses by LA-ICP-MS is advantageous.

Admission Regulations for Doctoral Studies at Stockholm University.

About the post

We offer a fixed-term employment as a doctoral student according to Chapter 5 of the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100). The period of employment may not be longer than what corresponds to full-time doctoral education for four years. As a doctoral student, you should primarily devote yourself to your own doctoral education, but the employment may include work with education, research and administration to a limited extent (maximum 20 %).

A new employment as a doctoral student is for a maximum of one year, the employment is then renewed for a maximum of two years at a time.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact

For more information, please contact Dr Iain Pitcairn, iain.pitcairn@geo.su.se.

Application

Apply for the PhD student position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

The instructions for applicants are available at: How to apply for a position.

You are welcome to apply!