Post-doctoral Research Fellow, School of Earth Sciences

Applications are invited for a Temporary post of a Post-doctoral Research Fellow Level 1 within UCD School of Earth Sciences.

We wish to appoint a Post-Doctoral Researcher in the field of Geomicrobiology or Low Temperature Geochemistry with a particular focus on bio-based induced carbonate precipitation in unconsolidated deposits (soils, sands and gravels) for the purpose of engineered `ground improvement'. The successful candidate will work on the project "Multi-scale Investigation of Bio-Based Mineral Precipitation in Carbonate Bearing Granular Soils and Construction Related Waste". This project is funded under the SFI/NSF US-Ireland Centre to Centre scheme in partnership with the Center for Bio-mediated and Bio-inspired Geotechnics (CBBG), and the Energy Efficient Materials Research Center (EEM) in Queen's University Belfast.

The project aims to extend the domain of microbially induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) and enzyme induced carbonate precipitation (EICP) as ground improvement technologies to carbonate-bearing materials. Both MICP and EICP will be investigated on these deposits as sustainable alternatives to cement-based technologies. More specifically, this post will involve: (i) conducting a literature review / evaluation of existing data to summarise existing state of knowledge regarding the implementation of EICP and MICP, (ii) assisting in the design of a series of large scale MICP/EICP tank tests on carbonate bearing deposits, (iii) conducting an associated geochemical monitoring programme, (iv) establishing laboratory scale carbonate precipitation experiments designed to simulate field conditions.

This is a research focused role, where you will conduct a specified programme of research supported by research training and development under the supervision and direction of a Principal Investigator.

The primary purpose of the role is to further develop your research skills and competences, including the processes of publication in peer-reviewed academic publications, the development of funding proposals, the mentorship of graduate students along with the opportunity to develop your skills in research led teaching.

Salary range: €42,032 - €45,819 per annum

Appointment on the above range will be dependent upon qualifications and experience.

Closing date: 17:00hrs (local Irish time) on 29th of September 2023.

Applications must be submitted by the closing date and time specified. Any applications which are still in progress at the closing time of 17:00hrs (Local Irish Time) on the specified closing date will be cancelled automatically by the system. UCD are unable to accept late applications.

UCD do not require assistance from Recruitment Agencies. Any CV's submitted by Recruitment Agencies will be returned.

The PD1 position is intended for early stage researchers, either just after completion of a PhD or for someone entering a new area for the first time. If you have already completed your PD1 stage in UCD or will soon complete a PD1, or you are an external applicant whose total Postdoctoral experience, inclusive of the duration of the advertised post, would exceed 4 years, you should not apply and should refer to PD2 posts instead.

Prior to application, further information (including application procedure) should be obtained from the Work at UCD website: https://www.ucd.ie/workatucd/jobs/