The expertise of the Interdisciplinary Research Laboratory on Sustainable Engineering and Ecodesign (LIRIDE) focuses on life cycle impact assessment. Internationally recognized for its scientific research, LIRIDE supports industry, SMEs, and organizations in their commitment to true sustainable development supported by life cycle assessment and the circular economy. Located at the University of Sherbrooke (Canada), LIRIDE is seeking applications for the following position.
About the role
Project title: Development of an LCA model of mining vehicles using structured sub-characterization approach and probabilistic sampling.
This PhD project is part of a research partnership with Natural Resources Canada's (NRCan's) federal agency CanmetMINING, focused on the environmental issues associated with transportation and logistic in Canada's mining sector. Focusing on efforts to decarbonize mining activities in Canada, this project combines LIRIDE's LCA expertise with CanmetMINING' mining sector expertise.
The aim of this project is to develop an LCA model for assessing the environmental impacts of the large-scale use of many types of mining vehicles fuel-powered and electric. The model will be based on the development and generalization of the structured sub-characterization approach to inventory data, followed by probabilistic LCA sampling using Monte Carlo simulations. Taking into account different contexts of use, the development of the model will focus mainly on the energy sources required to operate these vehicles and their associated technologies. The robustness of the model to be developed will be enhanced by taking into account the influence of different types of intensity, usage and regional energy context on the lifespan, maintenance, operation and end-of-life of mining vehicles, in particular their motorized components and batteries.
Qualifications
Your qualifications should include:
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A master's level university degree in civil, building, mechanical, environmental engineering or similar studies with excellent grades.
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A strong interest in modelling (ex. Environmental engineering) and in programming (ex. Python) would be an important advantage.
Your admission will be subject to the standard rules of the University of Sherbrooke (funding assured for the entire duration of the PhD project). The project will start as soon as possible or upon mutual agreement.
You are expected to contribute to teaching and research activities of the laboratory up to a maximum of 20% of your working time.
Daily work
The work will be carried out within an interdisciplinary team of LIRIDE, in close collaboration with the partner. The team will consist of two PhD students, one postdoctoral fellow and researchers. In addition, an integral part of your work is to publish your results in peer-reviewed journals and present them at international conferences.
Admission
We look forward to receiving your online application including :
Resume
Credentials
Cover letter
Two references
We will begin interviewing candidates as soon as a sufficient number of applications are received.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.