Postdoctoral position in Engineering and Politics of Carbon Storage

Description of the workplace

At the division of Engineering Geology, we work with education and research focused on characterisation and monitoring of natural and engineered systems, in particular subsurface systems. We combine geophysical methods, hydraulic testing, core-drilling, sampling and groundwater modelling. We are about 20 colleagues, half of which are senior researchers and teachers, and the others are doctoral students, technicians and administrators. 

While the position is based at the Engineering Geology division (Faculty of Engineering, see: https://www.tg.lth.se/english/), close collaboration with researchers at Lund University Center for Sustainability Studies (LUCSUS), Faculty of Social Sciences, see: https://www.lucsus.lu.se/about-lucsus) implies that part of the working time will take place at LUCSUS.

More about Engineering Geology division, Faculty of Engineering (tg.lth.se)

More about LUCSUS, Faculty of Social Sciences (lucsus.lu.se)

Subject and project description

Carbon dioxide removal (CDR) is now considered essential for keeping global warming to 1.5°C. Direct air carbon capture and storage (DACCS) is commonly seen as among the most secure in terms of carbon storage, particularly when paired with mineralization as the chosen storage method. Nevertheless, key questions remain as to how permanent such removal methods actually are. 

In this project, we focus on direct air capture with carbon mineralization in basalts (DACCS-b) because of the considerable public and private interest this technology has attracted in past years. Taking an inter-disciplinary approach, the research aims to combine the study of narratives and policy analysis with state-of-the-art geological knowledge, to explore how DACCS-b can be governed to address the uncertainties and risks of non-permanent carbon storage. 

Work duties

The main duties involved in a post-doctoral position is to conduct research. Teaching may also be included, but up to no more than 20% of working hours. The position includes the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning. The purpose of the position is to develop the independence as a researcher and to create the opportunity of further development. 

This position is inter-disciplinary in nature: it involves several subfields of geosciences (e.g. groundwater modelling, geochemistry) as well as social sciences (e.g. policy and narrative analysis, conducting interviews). 

You will investigate the scientific uncertainties related to carbon mineralization in basalts and to its monitoring, by reviewing the literature and conducting interviews with expert geologists. You will put the outcomes of this investigation in perspective with current narratives, as well as regulatory standards and policies. You will contribute to the development of a serious game aimed at sharing the knowledge with a wide audience and foster constructive discussions.

The position entails travel in connection with meetings, conferences and field work, where the latter may require working outside normal office hours.

Qualification requirements 

Appointment to a post-doctoral position requires that the applicant has a PhD, or an international degree deemed equivalent to a PhD, within the subject of the position. The certificate proving the qualification requirement is met, must be received before the employment decision is made. Priority will be given to candidates who have graduated no more than three years ago before the last day for application. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.

Additional requirements

• PhD degree in one of the following disciplines: Geography, Human Ecology, Political Science, Sociology, Sustainability Science and you are ready to be trained in geosciences. Alternatively, you hold a PhD in geosciences and have a demonstrated interest in social sciences (e.g. courses, articles, joint projects).
• documented ability to work and efficiently communicate with an inter-disciplinary group of researchers.
• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Documented ability to publish results in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Assessment criteria 

This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers. Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

For appointments to a post-doctoral position, the following shall form the assessment criteria:

• A good ability to develop and conduct high quality research.
• Teaching skills. 

Other merits

• previous work experience on climate change mitigation and carbon dioxide removal in particular.
• experience with conducting interviews and transcriptions or carrying out policy/narrative/discourse analysis.
• knowledge of the scientific uncertainties related to carbon storage and mineralization.
• experience with developing or facilitating serious games.

Consideration will also be given to how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the two departments involved in the research.

We offer

Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme. Read more on the University website about being a Lund University employee Work at Lund University. 

Further information

This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of 2 years. The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow”).

How to apply

Applications are to be submitted via the University’s recruitment system. The application should include a CV and a personal letter justifying your interest in the position and how it matches your qualifications. The application should also include a degree certificate or equivalent and any other document to which you would like to draw attention (copies of grade transcripts, details of referees, letters of recommendation, etc.).  

Welcome to apply!