Funded PhD studentship (Spring 2014) Investigating the role of natural organic matter in the transport of key radionuclides in 3 natural laboratories in the UK



We have secured the above studentship to work on the recently NERC funded Lo-RISE project. Applications are invited from qualified students wishing to embark on a full-time research programme commencing in Spring 2014. This project is led by the University of Manchester, and the consortium consists of the universities of Manchester, LU, Newcastle, Cranfield, Southampton, Edinburgh, SUERC, SAMS and the DIAMOND Light Source.

The Lo-RISE project: The focus of this project is on defining the key physical, chemical and biological processes which govern radionuclide transport, both in the soil/sediment solution phase, and transfers to biota. We will develop a process-based understanding of the speciation of radiologically important radionuclides (particularly 14C, U/Ra), and of transport and transfer phenomena through field studies in 4 ‘natural laboratories’ in England and Scotland, spanning terrestrial, intertidal and marine systems, integrated with laboratory experiments, and leading to development of quantitative models of key processes.

The Environmental Radiochemistry Research Group

The Group consists of 2 academics, a Technician, 2 Post-Docs and 12 PhD students. It has an international reputation and collaborates with scientists in many countries. Loughborough has a unique facility for radiochemistry which is housed in a single storey purpose built building, as well as a mobile radiochemistry laboratory. Research is concerned with environmental chemodynamics and concentrates on pollutant speciation and mobility of radionuclides in the terrestrial environment. Current research is concerned with radionuclide interactions with anthropogenic species, naturally occurring organics (humic and fulvic acids), and mineral surfaces using predictive computer modelling.

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Loughborough University: Voted Sunday Times ‘University of the Year’ 2008-2009, winner of The Times Higher ‘Best Student Experience’ poll for five years running. It is one of the top 20 Universities in the UK. The University has an impressive campus in the heart of the East Midlands – the largest single site campus in the UK. Its world-class sports and educational facilities, combined with its lively, diverse student community, make it a fantastic place to study, socialise and play.

Funding and eligibility: The studentship is open to graduates with a chemistry, geochemistry or related background with a 2.1 Honours degree or equivalent. A lower qualification is acceptable if supplemented with an appropriate postgraduate (MSc) qualification and relevant experience. The studentship is for 3 years and covers fees and a tax-exempt stipend of £13,726 for the 2013/14 academic year with cost of living adjustments in years 2 and 3. Due to funding restrictions, this studentship is open to UK and EU applicants only.

Additional Information: Applications can be made on-line via the Apply link below. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the positions with Dr Nick Evans, on 01509222564 or n.d.m.evans@lboro.ac.uk.

Closing date for applications: 5 July 2013. 

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