An exciting PhD research opportunity exists with the WH Bryan Mining & Geology Research Centre to enhance the understanding of mining-induced caving predictability by studying naturally caved systems.

The Project

The research project will investigate the processes that operated in the broken rock columns of natural breccia pipes, which are considered to represent analogues of block and sublevel cave mining systems. The data generated will then be used to produce numerical propagation and flow models of the natural systems to increase the understanding of the processes that operate in human applied to the

The three year research project will commence in as soon as possible.

This candidate will be based in the Sustainable Minerals Institute (SMI) at The University of Queensland, one of Australia's premier universities. SMI has a long track record of working to understand and apply the principles of sustainable development within the global resources industry.

The Role

Applications are sought from experienced geoscientists or geotechnical engineers who have the ability to make accurate field observations of often-spectacularly exposed naturally-caved systems and then to apply that information in numerical mining models.

The scholarship position will be part of a unique multi-disciplinary team who are conducting world-class research aimed at reducing geological and mining risk, and optimising mining procedures to meet the complex challenges that face the global mining sector.

The Person

Applicants must meet the entry requirements for the UQ Research Higher Degree program and have an Honours I or IIA degree (or equivalent) in a research field relevant to the geosciences and engineering.

In addition to this, applicants should have strong field data collection skills, particularly in geological mapping and drillcore logging and knowledge of the use of at least one industry standard 3D computer modelling package (e.g. Vulcan or Datamine) will be viewed favourably. Furthermore a knowledge of GIS systems commonly used in the minerals industry (e.g. Mapinfo, ArcGIS) and knowledge of underground mining methods is desirable.

Applicants will also be able to demonstrate considerable experience working with a range of stakeholders including industry, government, academia and community groups to deliver research outcomes.

Applicants should provide their CV, academic record and respond to the Selection Criteria together with the names and contact details of two academic referees.

Scholarship

The scholarship includes a tax-free annual stipend of $30,000 for three years.

Enquiries

To discuss this role please contact Dr Tony Webster, a.webster2@uq.edu.au.

Please send applications to Dr Tony Webster, WH Bryan Mining & Geology Research Centre, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Qld 4072, or email: a.webster2@uq.edu.au

To view the position description: http://www.brc.uq.edu.au/Aboutus/ProspectiveResearchPositions.aspx

Additional information about the application process can be obtained from the UQ Jobs webpage at http://www.uq.edu.au/uqjobs/