Post-doctoral researcher, Dept of Geology, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign: XAS study of molecular complexation of PGE sulfides in high temperature and pressure geological fluids

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral researcher position in the Department of Geology (School of Earth, Society and the Environment) at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. We seek a person with strong background in high-temperature hydrothermal/magmatic liquids and experimental geochemistry to perform EXAFS and XANES analyses on both glasses and solutions produced in high temperature and pressure laboratory experiments.  The goal is to determine the solubilities and understand the molecular complexation of PdS and PtS in hydrous alkali silicate and carbonate liquids. Experience and knowledge of synchrotron XAS analyses are required. Skills in performing experiments at high pressure and temperature as well as advanced knowledge of chemical thermodynamics and computational geochemistry are all preferred qualifications. The postdoc will have opportunities to participate in interdisciplinary research involving aspects of geoscience, chemistry, and material science.

Requirements and qualifications include:  

PhD in mineralogy, chemistry, material science, or closely related field.
Prior experience with synchrotron X-ray spectroscopy/scattering/microscopy techniques is required. Familiarity with other analytical techniques such as SEM-EDS, XRD, and ICP-MS is highly favorable.
Prior experience with high pressure experimental geochemistry is preferred.
Excellent oral and written communication skills

This position is part of a new collaborative project between UIUC (PI C. Lundstrom), Johns Hopkins University (Co-PI D. Sverjensky), and University of Chicago (Co-PI G. Gauli). This project is funded by the Department of Energy (DOE) Basic Energy Sciences under the critical minerals and materials program (https://www.energy.gov/articles/doe-awards- 30m-secure-domestic-supply-chain-critical-materials).

The selected candidate would start in late Spring 2022 at UIUC. XAS analyses at Argonne/APS would likely start in summer 2022 and occur through April of 2023 when the APS beamline shuts down. For the remainder of 2023 and 2024, XAS work using a pressurized hydrothermal cell is planned to occur at Grenoble/European Union Synchrotron facility.

The initial appointment is for one year with possible renewal for another 1.5 years upon mutual satisfaction. Interested individuals should submit a single pdf file that includes: 1) a cover letter that outlines the applicant's research, expertise match to the position, and career goals; 2) curriculum vitae; 3) copies of representative recent research publications; and 4) contact information of three references, electronically to Prof. Craig Lundstrom, lundstro@illinois.edu. Review of applications will begin January 25, 2022. UIUC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, and applications from women and under-represented minorities are particularly encouraged.--