PhD in advanced analytical techniques

Are you interested in doing research on samples from the planet Mars? Does it sound exciting to combine data from space with advanced laboratory analyses? If so, you are welcome to apply for the position as a doctoral candidate.

The Project
NASA's rover Perseverance is currently collecting samples in the Jezero Crater on Mars. These samples are planned to be returned to Earth (Mars Sample Return, MSR) in the beginning of the 2030s, presenting a unique opportunity to study Mars, including the possibility of life on our neighbouring planet.

The project involves developing new analysis protocols, for the analysis of organic material from Mars in future MSR samples, as well as in Mars meteorites and Mars analogues. Advanced instruments such as Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS), Raman spectroscopy, electron microscopy, etc., will be utilized in the analysis protocols. Data evaluation will involve the use of statistical tools and AI and models of the Martian carbon cycle will be developed based on the collected data from Mars meteorites. The project will also involve participation in various space missions to Mars (the ExoMars and Perseverance rovers) and analysis of space data collected by rovers/orbiters on Mars.

The project will entail some travel between different locations in Sweden, as well as to collaboration partners abroad.

About us
RISE Research Institutes of Sweden AB is Sweden's research institute and innovation partner. In international collaboration with companies, academia, and the public sector, we contribute to a competitive business sector and a sustainable society. The Methodology, Textiles, and Medical Technology unit is now seeking a PhD candidate in the field of advanced analytical techniques focusing on geological samples. In our operations, we work broadly through research projects and customer assignments in advanced analysis of various types of samples such as geological, new materials, medical technology products, etc.

About the Role
The samples brought back from Mars will require new types of analysis methods as only a small amount of material (igneous and sedimentary) will be available. At the Methodology, Textiles, and Medical Technology unit, we are conducting cutting edge research in analytical techniques. Now you have the opportunity to develop advanced analysis protocols and participate in various space projects.

You can choose to be in Borås, Gothenburg, or Stockholm for 4 years but will be enrolled as a doctoral student at the Department of Earth Sciences at the University of Gothenburg.

Who Are You?
You should have completed a master's degree in a technical/scientific field at an advanced level in Earth Sciences, Chemistry, or equivalent, or completed courses corresponding to at least 240 credits, of which at least 60 credits are at an advanced level, i.e., prerequisites qualifying for doctoral studies.

You need to be fluent in English in both speech and writing. Communication skill in Swedish is meritorious.

Merit includes:

- Degree in Earth Sciences with a focus on geochemistry/astrobiology or a degree in Chemistry with an interest in geology or astrobiology.

- Previous experience with advanced analysis equipment such as ToF-SIMS, Raman spectroscopy, and electron microscopy or similar techniques.

- Previous experience with handling space data.

- A genuine interest in space science and astrobiology.

- Previous experience with statistical tools and machine learning to handle large datasets.

Consideration will also be given to good collaboration skills, drive, independence, and how the applicant, through experience and competence, is predicted to have the ability needed to complete the doctoral program.

Education at Doctoral Level
Doctoral education at the Department of Earth Sciences leads to a PhD in Natural Science, specializing in geology. The main task for a doctoral student is to engage in their doctoral education, which includes participating in the research project and doctoral courses. The duties also include participating in RISE activities to a maximum of 20% of the work time. Within this time, suitable participation in the unit's area of activity is also included.

Employment

Start date: As soon as possible or according to agreement.

Salary: Salary according to agreement.

Assessment Criteria: Selection for doctoral education is based on the assessed ability to benefit from doctoral education.

Welcome with your application!

If this sounds exciting and you want to know more, you are welcome to contact Sandra Siljeström 010–5165269,sandra.siljestrom@ri.se.

The deadline for applications is May 30th. Interviews will be carried out continuously during the application period. Apply with personal letter, cv and a copy of degree diploma(s). Our union representatives are Ulf Nordberg, Sveriges Ingenjörer, 010-5166959, and Linda Ikatti, Unionen, 010-5165161.

About the University of Gothenburg

The University of Gothenburg meets society's challenges with versatile knowledge. With 56,000 students and 6,600 employees, the university is a large and inspiring workplace. Strong research and attractive programs attract researchers and students from around the world. With new knowledge and perspectives, the University of Gothenburg contributes to a better future.

The Department of Earth Sciences has approximately 80 employees. At the department, new generations of geologists, physical geographers, and geographers are trained for the academic world, industry, and government agencies. We offer bachelor's and master's programs in Earth Sciences as well as doctoral education in several Earth science disciplines. Our strongest research areas are in petrology/geochemistry, climatology, and applied Earth science. The department has excellent infrastructure and world-class analytical facilities for micro geochemistry.

University-wide information on what it means to be a doctoral student at the University of Gothenburg can be found on the university's doctoral pages: [link to university's doctoral pages]. Doctoral representative Jessika Lönn (jessika.lonn@gu.se).