PhD Studentship in School of Earth and Environment, University of Leeds, UK

PhD Studentship “Immobilisation of radionuclides via in situ incorporation into stable mineral phases” is available in School of Earth and Environment, University of Leeds, UK

Objectives:

Develop in situ methodologies for achieving irreversible incorporation radionuclide in contaminated sediments or sludges.
Investigate the incorporation mechanisms of Sr, Cs and U into stable mineral phases, such as iron oxides, carbonates and silicates common to all UK sediment types.
Develop protocols for investigating radionuclide speciation in experimental samples and in core materials from NDA sites, including the use of advanced synchrotron and electron microscopy techniques.
Training:

Training will be provided in state-of-the-art bio-geochemical techniques such as high-resolution electron microscopy, mineralogy and geomicrobiology. The student will use X-ray absorption spectroscopy to characterise the radionuclide interaction with minerals at the molecular scale, using the world-class synchrotron radiation research sources at the UK’s Diamond Light Source. This combination of advanced training will provide a broad portfolio of skills required for future employment in the academic, environmental and industrial sectors. Travel to present results at national and international conferences is an expected part of PhD training.

Funding Notes:

This 3.5 year PhD studentship is funded by the UK Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA). The NDA Studentship offers payment of full university tuition fees and a living costs bursary (£13,490 in year one). Applications are invited from UK and EU graduates who have, or expect to gain, a good degree in geochemistry, chemistry, geology, environmental science, materials science, or another relevant science discipline. Relevant Masters level qualifications are also welcomed. You also should have a good communication skills including written.

Application Form: Document, PDF Format

Informal enquiries:
Dr Ian Burke, email i.burke@see.leeds.ac.uk

Closing date: 03 August 2010

Source:

http://ping.fm/LWZI5