The Norman B. Keevil Institute of Mining Engineering at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver campus, invites applications for a Graduate Research Assistant (PhD) to work with industry partners and university researchers to support a project focused on identifying lower-energy thermodynamic comminution conditions using a novel CO2 comminution technique. The Research Assistant works closely with researchers in carrying out research plans and projects in the program, coordinates and liaises between multiple industrial partners, and manages research projects in conjunction with the principal investigators.
The NBK Institute of Mining Engineering at UBC is a global leader in mining research and education. Our faculty, students, and staff collaborate on cutting-edge projects that span the technical, environmental, and social aspects of mining. With support from alumni, industry partners, and the broader community, we drive innovation, advance sustainable practices, and contribute to economic and social development in Canada and beyond.
Position Summary:
The Ph.D. position will support a project focused on identifying lower-energy thermodynamic comminution conditions using a novel CO2 comminution technique. This work involves experimental testing with selected ore and rock types. These rock types will be characterized based on their mineral composition, texture, competency, and internal features such as grain size and internal crack network. The experimental work will identify rock characteristics suitable for CO2 comminution. The researcher will be trained on CO2 comminution devices and will use various rock and particle characterization instruments such as Nano-CT Scanners, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), and Scanning Electron Microscopy for MLA analysis, among other necessary devices.
The PhD position will provide an excellent opportunity to work on groundbreaking research that could revolutionize the mineral processing industry by improving energy efficiency, metal mineral recovery, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Join a world-class research team and contribute to the future of sustainable mining technologies.
This position will be supervised by both Professors Bern Klein and Reem Roufail.
Key responsibilities include:
Design and execute an experimental plan to characterize different ores and rocks in the study pre-CO2 comminution process (feed) utilizing the available instruments and devices.
Design and conduct experiments to assess the impact of pressure, temperature, and CO2 state on rock breakage and progeny morphological features.
Correlate the product features with feed rock characteristics.
Perform statistical analysis of experimental results and critically interpret data to verify and validate the experimental plan.
Investigate technologies that can pre-weak rocks by initiating or propagating cracks within them before exposure to CO2 comminution, such as microwave technology or other methods.
Collaborate with researchers and industry partners.
Qualifications
- MSc or MASc in Geological Sciences, Materials Engineering, Mineral Process Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or related field.
- Strong background in statistics, design of experiments, and data analysis.
- Strong background in rock mechanics, mineralogy and material science.
- Experience with experimental testing and use of lab equipment.
- Ability to work independently and effectively manage research tasks.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
The position is subject to final budgetary approval. Salary is $30,000 per year. The successful candidate will be appointed for one year, with the possibility of renewal subject to work performance and funding availability. The start date will be May 1, 2025, or the earliest possible date that the applicant is available. This is a full-time position.
The appointment will be based at the UBC Vancouver campus with travel to the University of Waterloo.
Further information about the position can be obtained by contacting Prof Bern Klein at bklein@mining.ubc.ca
How to Apply
Applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and transcript by March 31, 2024, at 11:59 pm (PST).
UBC Students and Alumni can apply directly via the CareersOnline Portal