Utrecht University 2021 Postdoctoral Researcher in Theoretical Geochemistry

All of the crystals that form in water on Earth are formed through reaction between oppositely charged ions. In these crystals, the ions are present in an ideal, charge-balanced ionic ratio. In contrast, the natural solutions in which they form, contain widely diverging ionic ratios. When crystals nucleate from natural solutions, they will be charged, and the charge has a massive impact on the behaviour of small new crystals. However, most nucleation experiments have been conducted in solutions with charge-balanced ionic ratios and the current nucleation theory is based on water condensation.

In the CRYSTAL CLEAR project, which started in 2019, we aim to determine the impact of ionic ratio on ionic mineral nucleation processes experimentally, computationally and theoretically. The first results of our project show that the current nucleation theory, which is capable of describing crystal formation rates and mechanisms of neutral nuclei, fails in conditions where nuclei are charged. Two experimental PhD candidates investigate the impact of diverging ionic ratios on the nucleation of various minerals (barium sulfate, calcium carbonate and iron (di)sulfide minerals). One postdoctoral Researcher (PD) performs molecular dynamics simulations of the formation mechanism and stability of the nuclei formed, and this advertisement is for the second PD in this project.

• Table of Content
• About Utrecht University
• Postdoctoral Researcher in Theoretical Geochemistry
• Aim and Benefits of Postdoctoral Researcher in Theoretical Geochemistry
• Requirements for Postdoctoral Researcher in Theoretical Geochemistry Qualification
• Application Deadline
• How to Apply

About Utrecht University

Founded in 1636 and located in the heart of the Netherlands, Utrecht University is one of Europe's leading research universities. We are recognised internationally for our high-quality, innovative approach to research and teaching. As an international student, you’ll be in good company at Utrecht University. Every year, approximately 1,500 international students come to the university to take English-taught degree programmes and other courses. Students work and study closely together, learning to operate in an international environment from the outset. This is essential for s...... continue reading

Postdoctoral Researcher in Theoretical Geochemistry

Aim and Benefits of Postdoctoral Researcher in Theoretical Geochemistry

We offer a temporary position (1.0 FTE) for a period of two and a half years. The gross salary - depending on previous qualifications and experience  - ranges between €2,790 and €3,619 (scale 10.0-10.6 according to the Collective Labour Agreement Dutch Universities) per month for a full-time employment. Salaries are supplemented with a holiday bonus of 8% and a year-end bonus of 8.3% per year. In addition, Utrecht University offers excellent secondary conditions, including an attractive retirement scheme, 

Requirements for Postdoctoral Researcher in Theoretical Geochemistry Qualification

• We seek an enthusiastic PD candidate, holding a PhD degree (at the start of the contract) that ensures appropriate background knowledge in colloid or ccondensed matter physics, physical colloid (geo-)chemistry, nanogeosciences, mineral nucleation and growth, environmental mineralogy, (environmental) chemistry, or material sciences.
• Experience in theory development and/or numerical modelling is required.
• You approach scientific problems with determination and you are eager to develop multidisciplinary skills.
• You must be willing to travel abroad to present your research to an international research community.
• As this project requires close collaboration within the research team, candidates are expected to be excellent team players.
• You also have excellent written and spoken English skills and good general communicational skills.

Application Deadline

How to Apply

Everyone deserves to feel at home at our university. We welcome employees with a wide variety of backgrounds and perspectives. To apply, please send your curriculum vitae, including a letter of motivation via the ‘apply’ button below. We aim to fill the position as soon as possible but no later than 1 April 2022.

For more details, visit Utrecht University website.