Postdoctoral researcher position in experimental mineral science and stable isotope geochemistry for sustainable subsurface energy extraction (3 years) (1.0 FTE)
Postdoctoral researcher position in experimental mineral science and stable isotope geochemistry for sustainable subsurface energy extraction (3 years) (1.0 FTE)
Job description
Clays are abundant in many of the environments that people interact with and the reactivity of clays plays a crucial role in the chemistry and hydrology of those systems. Clay formation in geothermal systems, for example, can clog pores, and therefore decrease the power-harvesting potential of geothermal power plants. In addition, the slow growth of clays is thought to limit the extent of mineral weathering, which is considered one of the key feedbacks in the global carbon cycle. Despite the importance of clay reactivity, it proves challenging to measure. However, in recent years several studies have demonstrated the possibility of using lithium isotopes as a tracer of clay formation and dissolution, as lighter lithium is preferentially incorporated into clays. Although this tracer is promising, there are several unknowns that have limited its application in the field, so far. The aim of this project, funded through the Nederlandse Organisatie voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek (Dutch Research Council), is to resolve these unknowns by probing the interaction of Li with clays, using experiments.
As our postdoctoral Researcher you will use a combination of tools including mass spectrometry for the analysis of Li and its isotopes, as well as 4D (3D space + time) X-ray tomography. Experiments will be carried out at pressure and temperature conditions up to those expected in the Dutch subsurface, particularly for sites that are used and are of interest for geothermal energy. These experiments will yield novel information into the interaction of Li with clays. Thus, the experiments will enable us to test the feasibility of using Li isotopes as tracers of clay reactivity in areas which are difficult to sample directly. In addition, it will allow us to provide critical input, required for models on climate change. The project will focus on research. This may include BSc and MSc student research projects, in which you will be expected to take a leading role.
Qualifications
Offer
We offer a temporary position (1.0 FTE) for three years in an international working environment. The gross salary - depending on previous qualifications and experience - ranges between €3,270 and €3,807 (scale 10.3-10.7 according to the Collective Labour Agreement Dutch Universities) per month for a full-time employment. Salaries are supplemented with a holiday bonus of 8% and a year-end bonus of 8.3% per year. In addition, Utrecht University offers excellent secondary conditions, including an attractive retirement scheme, (partly paid) parental leave and flexible employment conditions (multiple choice model). More information about working at Utrecht University can be found here.
About the organization
A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. At Utrecht University , the various disciplines collaborate intensively towards major societal themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Sustainability.
Utrecht University's Faculty of Geosciences studies the Earth: from the Earth's core to its surface, including man's spatial and material utilisation of the Earth - always with a focus on sustainability and innovation. With 3,400 students (BSc and MSc) and 720 staff, the faculty is a strong and challenging organisation. The Faculty of Geosciences is organised in four Departments: Earth Sciences, Human Geography & Spatial Planning, Physical Geography, and Sustainable Development.
The Department of Earth Sciences conducts teaching and research across the full range of the solid Earth and environmental Earth sciences, with activities in almost all areas of geology, geochemistry, geophysics, biogeology and hydrogeology. The department hosts a highly international group of more than 100 PhD candidates and postdoctoral Researchers and houses a wide variety of world-class laboratories.
Additional information
Dr. Helen King (Project Leader), via [email protected].
Apply
Everyone deserves to feel at home at our university. We welcome employees with a wide variety of backgrounds and perspectives. To apply, please send your curriculum vitae, including a letter of motivation via the ‘apply’ button below.
Evaluations and interviews are planned before the end of 2021 or early January. We seek to initiate the position as soon as possible, but no later than 1 April 2022. Online screening may be part of the selection.
Commercial response to this advertisement is not appreciated.
The application deadline is
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