Sustainable hydrometallurgy PhD
Are you a driven and passionate researcher seeking to make a positive impact on the environment through cutting-edge metallurgy?
SuperMET, a premier research laboratory at Université Laval, is thrilled to announce multiple PhD positions for motivated students in sustainable hydrometallurgy.
This project, beginning January 2025, offers an opportunity to contribute to innovative research in hydrometallurgy—a field essential to responsible mineral processing and sustainable resource management.
If you hold an MASc. degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical, or Materials Science & Engineering and have experience with mineral processing, this could be the next big step in your academic journey. SuperMET’s project promises hands-on research, collaboration with a leading team of experts, and a chance to develop sustainable solutions in metal extraction and recovery.
About SuperMET and Université Laval
SuperMET, based at the prestigious Université Laval in Québec, Canada, is a state-of-the-art research facility dedicated to advancing sustainable practices in metallurgy.
Université Laval is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and innovation, consistently ranked among Canada’s top research universities. SuperMET stands out in its efforts to create environmentally conscious processes that meet industry demands while reducing ecological impact.
Hydrometallurgy, SuperMET’s focus, is a branch of metallurgy that uses aqueous solutions to extract metals from ores, concentrates, and other materials. With the increasing global emphasis on sustainable resource extraction, hydrometallurgy offers a cleaner, safer alternative to traditional extraction methods.
At SuperMET, students will have access to specialized facilities and will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, working toward real-world applications that align with environmental preservation and resource efficiency.
PhD Project Overview: Sustainable Hydrometallurgy
The hydrometallurgy project at SuperMET addresses the urgent need for sustainable solutions in the mineral and metals industry. As global demand for minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements rises—driven largely by sectors such as electronics, renewable energy, and electric vehicles—there is a critical need for efficient and environmentally friendly extraction processes.
Key Project Focus Areas:
1. Efficient Metal Recovery Techniques:
– Developing novel methods for metal extraction and recovery that maximize yield while minimizing waste and environmental impact.
– Optimizing leaching processes to ensure minimal energy and chemical usage.
2. Advanced Waste Management:
– Investigating strategies for minimizing toxic byproducts in the extraction process.
– Exploring ways to convert waste materials into usable byproducts, reducing the need for disposal and mitigating pollution.
3. Innovative Process Design and Optimization:
– Designing hydrometallurgical processes that are scalable, safe, and adaptable to various minerals and resources.
– Utilizing advanced simulation and modeling to test process efficiency and identify areas for improvement.
4. Sustainability and Environmental Impact:
– Conducting life-cycle analyses to ensure sustainable practices throughout the extraction process.
– Studying the environmental footprint of hydrometallurgy compared to traditional methods, providing insights that can inform policy and industrial standards.
These research areas contribute to a more responsible approach to mining and metallurgy, emphasizing efficiency and sustainability—a priority for both the mining industry and society at large.
Why Apply to SuperMET’s PhD Positions?
1. Impactful Research:
– SuperMET’s research is critical to the future of sustainable mining and mineral processing. By joining the team, you will be at the forefront of research that seeks to make metal extraction safer, cleaner, and more efficient, directly addressing some of today’s most pressing environmental concerns.
2. Access to World-Class Resources:
– SuperMET offers students access to cutting-edge technology and resources, including advanced simulation software, lab facilities for experimentation, and industry partnerships. Université Laval’s reputation as a research powerhouse will provide the platform you need to succeed.
3. Expert Mentorship and Multidisciplinary Collaboration:
– SuperMET’s team includes leading experts in hydrometallurgy, chemical engineering, and sustainability. Working closely with these mentors will provide invaluable insights and support, preparing you for a successful career in academia, research, or industry.
4. Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion:
– SuperMET values diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, minorities, indigenous people, LGBTQ2S+ individuals, and those from underrepresented communities. This commitment ensures a rich, collaborative environment that celebrates varied perspectives and backgrounds.
5. International and National Opportunities:
– Whether you’re an international applicant or a Canadian citizen, SuperMET offers a welcoming environment. Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be prioritized, but applications from all regions are encouraged, bringing diverse global perspectives to the team.
Requirements for the PhD Position
The SuperMET team is looking for candidates with the following qualifications:
– Academic Background:
– A MASc. degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mining, Metallurgical, or Materials Science & Engineering.
– Prior research experience, particularly in mineral processing, metallurgical engineering, or chemical engineering, is essential.
– Publication Record:
– A strong publication record in relevant fields, indicating experience with technical and research writing as well as expertise in presenting findings.
– Communication Skills:
– Excellent communication skills are crucial, as candidates will be expected to deliver presentations, draft technical reports, and communicate findings effectively.
– Language Skills:
– Knowledge of English is required, and while French proficiency is not mandatory, it is an asset for those interested in working within Québec’s bilingual research environment.
Application Process and Important Dates
1. Documents Required:
– A cover letter expressing your interest in the position and outlining relevant experience.
– Your CV, detailing academic qualifications, research experience, and publication record.
– Academic transcripts for your MASc. degree.
How to apply for PhD in hydrometallurgy
– Send a mail including your documents to georgios.kolliopoulos@gmn.ulaval.ca with the subject line: “Graduate Student Application, SuperMET Group.”
– The project is set to begin in January 2025, though SuperMET is flexible, and candidates can start at their earliest availability.
– Only candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted. SuperMET appreciates all applications, but due to the high volume of interest, individual responses will be limited to those advancing to the next stage.