The effects of climate change are evident in many parts of Canada. Transforming industrial society in response to climate change will reshape the future of the mineral industry. Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from primary mineral and metal production account for ~10% of global GHG emissions. A circular economy, as a societal transition towards a clean economy, creates new opportunities out of the materials we might otherwise throw away and minimizes waste and GHG emissions.
One funded PhD position is available to begin in Fall 2021 with Dr. Qian Zhang at Queen's University in Canada. This project will focus on methodological challenges in assessing the impact of circular economy practices on Canada's mining industry. The successful applicant is expected to be a highly-motivated student who is interested in interdisciplinary research and equipped with some novel analytical skills (e.g., dynamic material flow analysis, life-cycle assessment and optimization, integrated assessment modeling for climate change, environmental econometrics, geospatial analysis, or machine learning in earth sciences). Preferred background: Mining/Civil Engineering/Geoengineering/Earth Sciences with a solid understanding of sustainable development concepts.
Interested students are encouraged to contact Dr. Qian Zhang by email (qian.zhang@queensu.ca) with your CV, a short research statement, and the contact information of two references. Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted for an interview. Regarding full application procedure, admission requirements, and other relevant information, please refer to the following webpage:
https://www.queensu.ca/sgs/prospective-students/application-process
The Robert M. Buchan Department of Mining at Queen’s University has prepared global mining industry leaders for 125 years. The Department’s vision is:
To excel in applied science education and research related to the stewardship and recovery of the earth’s mineral resources, accomplished through the development of exceptional engineers and scholars for a sustainable global society.
Queen's University recognizes that the values of equity and diversity are vital to and in harmony with its educational mission and standards of excellence. It acknowledges that direct, indirect and systemic discrimination exists within our institutional structures, policies and practices and in our community. These take many forms and work to differentially advantage and disadvantage persons across social identities such as race, ethnicity, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, faith and socioeconomic status, among other examples.
Queen's is committed to counteracting discrimination in this institution and developing a climate of educational equity that recognizes and respects the equal dignity and worth of all who seek to participate in the life, work and mission of the University. Such a climate is created and maintained by developing a university-wide commitment to and understanding of educational equity, supported by policies, programs, curricula, practices and traditions that facilitate individuals - and equity-seeking groups- free, safe, and full participation.