PhD student

The effects of climate change are evident in Canada and globally. Transforming industrial society in response to climate change will reshape the future of the mineral industry. As a societal transition towards a clean economy, a circular economy creates new opportunities out of the materials we might otherwise throw away and minimizes waste and GHG emissions.

One funded MSc/PhD position is available to begin in Sept. 2024 or Jan. 2025 with Dr. Qian Zhang at Queen's University in Canada. This NSERC-funded project will focus on assessing technological and managerial opportunities for reducing the mineral value chain's carbon footprint.

The successful applicant is expected to be a highly-motivated student who is interested in interdisciplinary research and equipped with some novel data analytical skills (e.g., dynamic material flow analysis, life cycle assessment and optimization, integrated assessment modelling for climate change, geospatial analysis, or machine learning in earth sciences). Preferred background: mineral processing/environmental engineering/geochemistry/earth sciences with proven programming experience and a good understanding of industrial ecology and climate change agendas.

Interested students are encouraged to contact Dr. Qian Zhang by email (qian.zhang@queensu.ca) with your CV, a short research statement (~2 pages), and contact information of two references. Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted for an interview.

• The Robert M. Buchan Department of Mining