Title:  PhD position in Material Flow Analysis (MFA) and Geographical Information Systems (GIS) (IV-86/17)

Institution:  Norwegian University of Science and Technology

Location:  Trondheim, Norway

Deadline:  March 28, 2017

Description

The Department of Energy and Process Engineering at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is seeking a PhD student to develop a spatially explicit model and scenarios for the Norwegian phosphorus cycle. The PhD student will be involved in the project “Nutrients in a Circular Bioeconomy: Barriers and opportunities for Mineral Phosphorus Independence in Norway” (MIND-P).

 Phosphorus is a macronutrient that is essential for food security. Its supply is dependent on finite amounts from reserves concentrated primarily in the Western Sahara and Morocco. This makes Norway vulnerable to supply disruptions. First studies of the phosphorus cycle have demonstrated that Norway generates about four times more secondary phosphorus than it needs for fertilization. The current inefficiency of phosphorus use results in large amounts of phosphorus being accumulated in the soil and in aquatic systems and contributes to eutrophication.

 The goal of the MIND-P project is to analyse pathways towards independence from mineral P fertilizer use through improved recycling with a focus on manure and fish sludge, the two largest sources of secondary phosphorus. The project will be conducted in co-operation with partners from agricultural sciences, from aquaculture sciences, and from industrial ecology. The PhD student will develop a spatially explicit model for the phosphorus stocks and flows in order to evaluate different strategies for secondary phosphorus recycling. The MIND-P project further aims at the development of a Norwegian Phosphorus Platform, and this PhD project will inform and be informed by this platform.

 Qualifications

The research involves quantitative systems analysis, the use of geographical information systems (GIS), as well as interactions with industry and government representatives. Therefore, the successful candidate should be able to demonstrate a strong background in natural science or engineering, preferable with experience in industrial ecology. Demonstrated experience in the use of GIS is required. Skills and experience in modelling and programming are advantageous. Good communication skills are highly relevant for this project, and knowledge of the Norwegian language is an advantage. The candidate should further be willing to work both independently and in teams with other researchers across disciplines.

 Conditions

PhD Candidates are remunerated in code 1017, and are normally remunerated at gross NOK 432, 300 before tax. There will be a 2 % deduction to the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund from gross wage.

Engagement as a PhD Candidate is done in accordance with “Regulation concerning terms and conditions of employment for the posts of post-doctoral research fellow, research fellow, research assistant and resident”, given by the Ministry of Education and Research of 19.07.2010. The goal of the positions is to obtain a PhD degree. Applicants will engage in an organized PhD training program, and appointment requires approval of the applicants plan for a PhD study within three months from the date of commencement.

 The research position is set for a duration of 3 years towards the degree of PhD.

 For further information and informal enquiries about the position please contact Prof. Daniel B. Müller, Department of Energy and Process Engineering, NTNU, Trondheim. Email: daniel.mueller@ntnu.no.

 See http://www.ntnu.edu/ivt/phd for more information.

 The engagement is to be made in accordance with the regulations in force concerning State Employees and Civil Servants. The positions adhere to the Norwegian Government's policy of balanced ethnicity, age and gender. Women are encouraged to apply.

 The application

The application must contain information of educational background and work experience. Certified copies of transcripts and reference letters should be enclosed.

Applications with CV, grade transcripts and other enclosures should be submitted via this webpage here Mark the application with IV-86/17.

 Anticipated commencement: in agreement with the Department, as soon as possible.

Application deadline: March 28, 2017.

 According to the new Freedom of Information Act, information concerning the applicant may be made public even if the applicant has requested not to be included in the list of applicants.

 Apply for this job